The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert is proud to present Center Stage 2023. This year’s event is themed Transcending Barriers, Creating Community. Proceeds from Center Stage will benefit The Center’s programs and services that support LGBTQ+ people living in the Coachella Valley.
CEO, Mike Thompson states: “Whilea supermajority of Americans support LGBTQ+ people, there are extremists, including some elected officials, who use hate-filled speech and targeted legislation to further marginalize members of our community. In recent months, drag performers and transgender people are among those most at-risk, which is why it’s important to transcend these barriers by building the safety that comes with being in community.”
This year we are proud to honor a local legend known for her big character and equally big heart; Drag personality, Bella da Ball, (aka: Brian Wanzek). Bella is an enthusiastic and passionate supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. She has been proclaimed as a socialite ambassador and advocate for human rights. Her collection of achievements is long and well deserved and includes a Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, and Safe Schools Desert Cities Champion for Youth Award for LGBTQIA Youth in The Desert. Adding to her long list of distinctions, The Center will recognize Bella with our Legacy Award, honoring the lasting impact she has made on the desert’s LGBTQ+ community.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, October 20, 2023
Time: 5:30 – 9:30PM
Venue: The Palm Springs Air Museum
Tickets available at: give.thecentercv.org/centerstage
Presenting Sponsor: Eisenhower Health
Magic Sponsors: David Hood and George Sellers, Harold Matzner
Community Sponsors: Contractors State License Schools – David Meizener and Arturo Carillo, Tito’s Vodka