The Desert Scene

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores the artistry, challenge, and joy behind a special Broadway benefit celebrating the music of Stephen Sondheim . Producer Greg Hicks joins the conversation to discuss The Men of Broadway: Simply Sondheim , a fundraising concert for Revolution Stage Company featuring eight performers who have all appeared on Broadwa y. The discussion highlights...

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores how art connects deeply to the human experience through an intimate conversation about Destroying David , a one-person play coming to Dezart Performs . Director Craig Wells joins Bonnie for a discussion that centers on Michelangelo’s iconic statue and a modern story that parallels physical imperfection, emotional vulnerability, and the endur...

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. dives into the heart of a Valentine-season jazz celebration that blends music, mission, and community spirit . The conversation spotlights an upcoming romantic jazz fundraiser featuring a beloved local jazz ensemble and guest vocal performances , all in support of arts education and scholarships with the Desert Winds Freedom Band . Listeners hear fro...

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. explores the career, creativity, and resilience of Siobhan Velarde , a performer whose roots in acting and music have shaped a vibrant presence in the Greater Palm Springs entertainment scene . From early open-mic opportunities that sparked a lasting local career to years of performing blues, rock, pop, and theatrical material across iconic desert ve...

Producer Luke Yankee joins the program to discuss a heartfelt film series honoring his legendary mother, an acclaimed actress Eileen Heckart with an extraordinary career across stage, film, and television . The series, presented at the Palm Springs Cultural Center , pairs classic feature films with curated clips and behind-the-scenes stories shared before each screening . Audiences will see rare t...

This episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. shines a spotlight on a powerful community effort dedicated to fighting hunger and homelessness in the Coachella Valley as she speaks with Well In The Desert Board Member Eric Frankson . The conversation explores a newly reimagined annual benefit concert designed to raise funds and awareness for an organization that provides thousands of free meals e...

In this episode of The Desert Scene , Bonnie G. welcomes Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs , to discuss the exciting transformation of a 1957 historic church into the new Dezart Playhouse performance space in Palm Springs . Michael shares how the organization purchased the structure, carefully renovated it while preserving its architectural significance , and successfully opened w...

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G , listeners are treated to an engaging journey through the remarkable career of Joe Croyle, a veteran jazz vocalist and pianist whose life has been shaped by music, hard work, and unforgettable opportunities . Beginning in Pittsburgh, he reflects on early breakthroughs with nationally recognized musical groups, years performing on legendary stages,...

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G , listeners are treated to an inspiring and candid conversation with vocalist and songwriter Gina Zollman , whose artistic path has traveled from childhood performances to national recognition . Gina reflects on her early start in music, her love of humor and parody, and her challenging family dynamics that shaped — and at times complicated — her c...

In this inspiring episode, The Desert Scene spotlights a dynamic local effort to sustain the arts in Palm Springs. Entertainer and producer Doug Graham joins host Bonnie G . to discuss What a Feeling , the third annual fundraiser for the Palm Springs Cultural Center . This high-energy concert event celebrates the Oscar-winning songs of the 1980s , blending nostalgia, talent, and community spirit....

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G , playwright Gregg Ostrin shares insights about his new play, " The Beverly Hills Hotel Peace Talks ," making its world premiere at CV Rep on May 21st. Inspired by a historical controversy involving Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif during the creation of "Funny Girl," the play delves into complex themes such as identity, religion, and cultural conf...

In this episode of The Desert Scene , host Bonnie G . is joined by Jeff Hocker, executive producer and PR pro extraordinaire , to discuss the highly anticipated Cinco de Mayo celebration in Palm Springs . Taking place in the Arenas District , this lively event will transform the area into a vibrant Mexican fiesta , featuring an array of local talent and entertainment . Enjoy performances by the to...

In this episode of The Desert Scene , host Bonnie G . welcomes the vibrant and visionary Jerry Soria-Foust , Artistic Director of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus . The discussion dives into the much-anticipated Disney Pride in Concert , a groundbreaking collaboration with Disney Concerts. Jerry shares insights into the meticulous preparation behind the event, which features 42 Disney songs and i...

In this delightful episode of The Desert Scene , Bonnie G . talks with Barbara Rogers about an innovative and entertaining fundraising event— a luxurious dog wedding . Designed to benefit Loving All Animals , the event will include a high-end wedding ceremony for Sushi and Tinkerbell to wed Sammy and Lucky, complete with strolling violins, sit-down dinner, and a lively social gathering on a golf c...

In this insightful episode, dive into the upcoming 2025-2026 concert season with special guest Lee Mills, Executive Director of the Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic . Host Bonnie G . engages in a riveting discussion on the lineup featuring world-renowned orchestras like the Chicago Symphony and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, under the direction of acclaimed conductors such as Riccard...

In this episode of The Desert Scene , host Bonnie G welcomes the multi-talented Steven Skeels , whose expansive career includes acting, singing, songwriting, and producing. Steven shares his incredible journey from growing up in Indiana to tackling the entertainment world. He recounts his early discovery by a producer that launched his performance career, leading to life-altering stints in both Lo...

In this lively episode of The Desert Scene , Bonnie G welcomes back the multifaceted performer, Siobhan Velardé . A staple in Palm Springs' entertainment scene, Siobhan shares insights into her various residencies, including the lively V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar and the unique PSAIR venue. With a penchant for bluesy, eclectic, and occasionally cheeky performances, Siobhan discusses her love f...

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G , Coachella Valley actor John Corr takes us on his unique journey from the world of math and chemistry to the vibrant stage of theater. John shares how his love for acting blossomed during college, supported by his encouraging family. He recounts his experiences in the revived Palm Springs theater scene post-COVID, balancing a full-time job in clie...

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. , we welcome DeAnn Lubell from Amy's Purpose , a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers predators like coyotes pose to pets . DeAnn opened up about the tragic event that spurred her family to establish Amy’s Purpose and how it has since transformed lives through education. Discover the significant impact community...

In this episode of The Desert Scene , host Bonnie G sits down with the talented Christin Byrdsong to discuss his upcoming role as Judas in CVRep’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar , opening on March 5th. Christin shares his unique perspective on portraying Judas, the significance of his transition from playing Jesus to Judas, and how these characters relate to current societal themes. With a r...

Join Host Bonnie G on this week’s episode of The Desert Scene as she chats with Erin Hyland, Recruitment Coordinator for the Read With Me Volunteer Program in the Coachella Valley. Discover how this transformative initiative, founded over 20 years ago by Clay and Roberta Klein, addresses the educational needs of students, particularly in English language learning across multiple school districts i...

Join Bonnie G . and guest John Mario , music director and conductor of the Coachella Valley Symphony , in this episode of The Desert Scene . Discover the exciting themes for the symphony's upcoming concerts, including Close Encounters of a Symphonic Kind and the popular Best of Stage and Screen . John shares insights into the collaborative process of theme selection, the logistics of concert plann...

This week on The Desert Scene , Bonnie G . interviews actor and director Chuck Yates about his one-man show ' TRU ,' which focuses on the life of Truman Capote . Chuck reflects on his journey with the show, the complexities of Capote's character, and the evolution of his performance over the years. The discussion delves into Capote's literary legacy, his relationships, and the humor that permeated...

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G , we are thrilled to welcome back the talented Angie Delaire . A beloved local singing sensation, Angie is gearing up for a mesmerizing performance on January 22nd at the Mary Pickford Theatre as part of the Desert Candlelight Concert series. Known for her vibrant voice and dynamic range, Angie discusses the unique concept of performing amidst a st...

Join Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene featuring Dan Gore , the dynamic owner of Oscars in Palm Springs . Get an insider look at the incredible line-up of entertainment and events in the heart of Palm Springs. Dan talks about their upcoming New Year's Eve show with drag legends Jackie Beat, Candis Cayne, and Sherry Vine—an evening filled with laughter and spectacular performances. Dive...