It’s nothing new that a crime against an LGBTQ+ person is swept under the rug. In many cases, officials slow walk investigations or just ignore it all together.
While we have a stellar police force in Palm Springs. most of the rest of the world is not so fortunate. Case in point, the still-myterious death of Heklina, the beloved drag performer found dead in London over two years ago.
We re-published a new investigative piece in The Guardian today that asks why her friends and fans are still waiting for an answer. The article begins by quoting Sister Roma, “Yeah, she was a bitch, but she was a bitch in the best possible way.”
Heklina had deep roots in Palm Springs spending much of her time her after making her mark in San Fransisco. She had moved here in 2020, buying a house near her good friend, Nancy French. They were to grow old together, according to the article. As well, Nancy expressed that on KGAY as John Taylor interviewed her after Heklina’s death.
After multiple investigators on the case, communications ignored and calls for the Metropolitan Police to do their job, her friends going to the press seems to have finally brought the spotlight back on the case.
Peaches Christ organized protests a year ago, and now it appears police may be ready to call the case an accidental overdose. But the fact that three men were seen on CCTV leaving Heklina’s flat leaves open that it was a murder. Peaches is hopeful that this incident will help shine a light on the Met police’s longstanding institutional homophobia.
She asks, “Can we move the dial so that the police feel pressure to do better with future cases involving people from our community?” And that sentiment extends to all of us after two deaths of peaceful protesters at the hands of federal law enforcement in Minneapolis.
Next week, I’ll be flying to San Francisco to attend the reopening of the Castro Theatre, where Heklina had performed, where the famous Drag Roast of Heklina was filmed in 2018 and where her memorial service had occurred on May 23, 2023.
She would have loved our new Plaza Theatre. And I’ll be thinking of her impact on our LGBTQ+ community when I report from there in a few weeks.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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MON & TUE at the McCallum
Two standout evenings await at the McCallum Theatre: On Monday, January 26, the Mineria Symphony Orchestra of Mexico brings its acclaimed artistry to the stage for subscribers. The following night, Tuesday, January 27, Tango After Dark delivers a thrilling showcase led by German Cornejo and Gisela Galeassi, joined by eight world‑class dancers and live music inspired by Astor Piazzolla. Get tickets
TUE–SAT: Assassins
Revolution Stage Company presents Assassins, the Tony Award–winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman, running January 16–31. This bold and provocative production examines the motivations and mythology surrounding nine figures who attempted to alter American history, blending dark humor, sharp commentary, and unforgettable music. Gay Desert Guide theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Assassins is one of those rare musicals that manages to be unsettling, darkly funny, and unexpectedly moving all at once.” Read his full review and Get tickets
WED: The Center Social
The first Center Social of the new year is on Wednesday, January 28 from 5:30–7 pm at Boozehounds, offering a relaxed early‑evening meetup where community members can connect, unwind, and enjoy a welcoming happy‑hour atmosphere. Held every fourth Wednesday (at a different location each month), this monthly gathering creates an easy space for conversation, friendship, and strengthening ties within the local LGBTQ+ community. More info
WED: Spamilton: An American Parody
On Wednesday, January 28 at 7:30 pm, The Plaza Theatre ignites with Spamilton: An American Parody, Gerard Alessandrini’s riotous send‑up of Broadway’s biggest hits. Performed by a dynamic cast of eight, this fast‑paced musical spoof blends celebrity satire, pop‑culture jabs, and hip‑hop‑infused showtunes into a laugh‑out‑loud evening. After acclaimed runs in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and London, Spamilton arrives in Palm Springs ready to stage a full‑blown comedy revolution. Get tickets
WED–SUN: One Man, Two Guvnors
CVRep presents the riotous comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, running through Sunday, February 1. This adaptation of a classic farce follows the endlessly hungry Francis Henshall (Peter Fanone), who takes on two jobs—while desperately trying to keep his bosses from discovering each other. With sharp wit, physical comedy and songs by Grant Olding, this fast‑paced production delivers a joyful tangle of mistaken identities, near‑misses and escalating chaos that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Peter Fanone delivers a performance with enough wattage to light up the entire valley.” Read his full review and Get tickets
THU: Business and Education Resource Fair
The Business and Education Resource Fair offers a valuable morning of connection and learning on Thursday, January 29 from 9–11 am at the Coachella Valley Library, bringing together residents, entrepreneurs, and business owners with organizations that support professional and economic growth. Attendees can explore exhibitor booths and take part in free breakout sessions covering internship pathways, workforce development, AI for business, and local support resources. More info
THU: Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees
The Plaza Theatre hosts Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees On Thursday, January 29 at 7:30 pm for a definitive tribute to the Gibb brothers’ legendary sound. Audiences will be swept into a full playlist of disco anthems and tender ballads, enhanced by dazzling visuals and big‑screen moments. Get tickets
FRI: Don McLean
On Friday, January 30 at 8 pm, The Plaza Theatre welcomes Don McLean, the iconic singer‑songwriter whose timeless classic “American Pie” remains a touchstone of American music. With more than five decades of storytelling behind him, McLean brings heartfelt lyrics, warm vocals, and a legacy of folk‑rock artistry to an intimate evening that celebrates a career still resonating across generations. Get tickets
FRI: Collective Soul
Collective Soul storms into The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Friday, January 30 at 8 pm, delivering the southern‑rooted rock sound that has defined their three‑decade career. Fans can expect a powerful set packed with classics like “Shine,” “December,” and “The World I Know,” along with newer favorites that showcase the band’s evolving edge. Get tickets
FRI–SUN: Camp Morning Wood
Camp Morning Wood makes its west coast premiere, presented by the new PRISM Theater at The 4707 for a run that continues through Sunday, March 22. Fresh from its Off‑Broadway success, this bold and irreverent musical follows a newly engaged couple who unexpectedly land at a gay nudist camp, setting the stage for cheeky comedy, lively songs and outrageous choreography. Get tickets
FRI–SUN: Dispersion of Light
Desert Ensemble Theatre unveils the world premiere of Dispersion of Light at the Palm Springs Cultural Center from January 23–February 1. Written by Rich Rubin and directed by Jerome Elliott Moskowitz, this new work offers a vivid, emotionally charged portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz, capturing the artistic fire, tension, and creative force that defined their legendary partnership. It’s an evocative, visually rich theatrical experience from the playwright behind Kafka’s Joke. Get tickets
FRI–SUN: Six The Musical – Teen Edition
Musical Theatre University brings the international phenomenon SIX to the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center for three performances: Friday and Saturday, January 30 & 31 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, February 1 at 2 pm. Join the “original real housewives” of Henry VIII as they reclaim their stories in a fierce, funny, pop‑concert musical packed with attitude, wit, and show‑stopping vocals. With a cast of rising young performers delivering all the energy that made SIX a global sensation, this is one of the most entertaining nights you’ll spend in the theatre this year. Get tickets
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 103.1 listener, you already know we’re always hustling to stay ahead of the fast‑moving world of radio and technology. We want to keep delivering the content you love in the ways you actually use, which is why we’re inviting you to take part in our annual tech survey. Tell us how radio fits into your day alongside social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web—everything that keeps you connected to entertainment, news and updates from KGAY and beyond. You might even enjoy taking a moment to reflect on how your own listening habits have evolved as a KGAY fan! Take the survey
A Fresh New Glow on Sunny 106.5 and KGAY is Now at 103.1
Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, pairing bright, familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. At the same time, KGAY has kicked off the New Year on a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM, expanding its coverage and adding HD digital sound while continuing to stream worldwide.
ALSO THIS WEEK
Monday, January 26
Monday Night Bingo with Bella da Ball | 7–9 pm at the Ace Hotel
Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Tuesday, January 27
Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce January Mixer | 5–6:30 pm at Boozehounds
Wednesday, January 28
Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
Thursday, January 29
Wine & Design Mixer | 5:30 pm at Ethan Allen
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
Carousel Live Retro Music | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
Laughter on the 23rd Floor | 7:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Friday, January 30
Drag Bingo/Trivia Nights (alternating) | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
An Evening with Lillias White | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Laughter on the 23rd Floor | Fri, Sat & Sun at 7:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Saturday, January 31
Sober & Strong: Fitness, connection, accountability | 8–9 am at Atlas Training Co.
Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival Grand Tasting | 2–5:30 pm at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
ABBA LA (ABBA Tribute) | 4:30 pm at The Gardens on El Paseo
An Evening with Lillias White | 6–9:30 at The Purple Room
Dance Ranch: Beginner Shadow with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step
Sunday, February 1
A.M. Stream with Modgirl | 10 am–1 pm at Café la Jefa
The Judy Show! (SOLD OUT) | 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
Score Your Rivalry Merch
Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed T‑shirts now available through the Pride Store. Some designs rep your favorite fictional teams from the show, while others turn up the temperature with bolder, more provocative takes. Pick your style, show your fandom, and save 10% at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY. Shop Now
Get our Latest Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out the latest edition of the K-Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, or browse it online right here!
THIS WEEKEND
INFO-A-GO-GO 2026
INFO-A-GO-GO returns on Saturday, January 31 from 11 am–2 pm at Hotel Zoso, bringing together more than 45 LGBTQ+ groups, clubs, organizations, and nonprofits for an afternoon of connection and community. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this free, high‑energy gathering is designed to help queer and trans residents and allies discover new ways to get involved, build relationships, and strengthen year‑round support networks. John Taylor will be Out and About, broadcasting from the event on KGAY 103.1 from 11 am–2 pm! With dozens of local partners under one roof, it’s the perfect opportunity to plug into the heart of Palm Springs’ LGBTQ+ community. More info
1964: A Tribute to The Beatles
The Plaza Theatre transforms into the height of early Beatlemania with 1964: A Tribute to The Beatles on Saturday, January 31 at 7:30 pm. Hailed by Rolling Stone as the most authentic Beatles tribute on earth, this acclaimed group recreates an early ’60s concert with meticulous detail — from period instruments and vintage suits to pitch‑perfect harmonies and charming onstage banter. It’s a nostalgic, note‑perfect journey through the music that changed the world. Get tickets
So Madonna
The Desert Hot Springs Downtown Concert Series returns on Saturday, January 31 from 4–8 pm with So Madonna, a high‑energy tribute that brings the Queen of Pop’s biggest hits to Pierson Boulevard. This free, family‑friendly event features an opening act, food and drink vendors, lawn games, and activities for kids — all set against the lively backdrop of Desert Hot Springs City Hall. The fun continues each month with upcoming themed concerts, including a Motown Party on February 28, a ’90s bash on March 28, and a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute on April 25. More info
ABBA LA
The Gardens on El Paseo Concert Series keeps the momentum going on Saturday, January 31 at 4:30 pm with Abba LA, bringing the irresistible sparkle and sing‑along joy of ABBA’s greatest hits to the Center Lawn. This lively evening benefits Shay’s Warriors – Life After Cancer, continuing the series’ long tradition of supporting local nonprofits while uniting the community through music. More info
Women’s Tea Dance
Celebrate community, connection, and queer joy at the Women’s Tea Dance on Sunday, February 1 from 3–6 pm at the Palm Springs Surf Club. Inspired by the original gay tea dances of the 50s and 60s, this joyous afternoon gathering offers a welcoming space for women to unwind, dance, and socialize before the week begins. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. More info
PSPD Open House “Behind the Badge”
Step inside the world of local public safety at the PSPD Open House “Behind the Badge,” happening Saturday, January 31 from 3–5 pm at the Palm Springs Police Department. This interactive afternoon invites the community to meet the officers who serve Palm Springs every day, explore department tours, and experience live demonstrations from the Drone, SWAT, and K9 units. It’s a rare, up‑close look at how “Exemplary Service” comes to life — perfect for families, neighbors, and anyone curious about the work that keeps our city safe. More info
Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley brings his chart‑topping country sound to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, January 31 at 8 pm, promising a night of powerhouse guitar work, award‑winning songwriting, and fan‑favorite hits. With nearly 25 years of accolades — from GRAMMYs to Grand Ole Opry honors — Paisley’s live performances are known for their energy, heart, and signature storytelling. Get tickets
Love, Alaska: A Valentine’s Day Show
On Sunday, February 1 at 7:30 pm, The Plaza Theatre welcomes Alaska for Love, Alaska, an irresistibly offbeat Valentine‑themed evening of music, storytelling, and her signature otherworldly glamour. Joined by her piano‑playing faerie‑witch accompanist Jeremy, Alaska promises a heart‑soothing, soul‑serenading escape during the year’s most romantically intense season. Guests are encouraged to wear red and surrender to the spell. Get tickets
Global Dance Experience
Compagnie Hervé Koubi brings a breathtaking fusion of contemporary dance, capoeira, and martial arts to the McCallum Theatre on Sunday, February 1 at 3 pm. Sol Invictus unfolds with gravity‑defying movement and powerful imagery, tracing choreographer Hervé Koubi’s French‑Algerian heritage through a collaboration with street dancers from across the Mediterranean. Get tickets
The Art of Science
The Art of Science offers an intimate one‑man performance that blends live music, immersive visuals, and thought‑provoking scientific storytelling. Created by local artist Patrick Olson and refined after a successful Off‑Broadway chapter, the show invites audiences to explore connection, consciousness, and the universe in a uniquely moving way. Complimentary preview performances take place Saturdays from 7:30–8:45 pm and Sundays from 2–3:15 pm. More info
Click below to sign up for our Gay Desert Guide Oasis Insiders Newsletter to get our Weekly Blog, Top 3 Events for the weekend, Hot Deals and Cool Events all delivered to your inbox every Friday!
- Assassins – presented by Revolution Stage Company
Jan 16–31 - One Man, Two Guvnors, presented by CVRep
Jan 14–Feb 1 - Dispersion of Light – presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Jan 23–Feb 1 - Camp Morning Wood – presented by PRISM Theater
Jan 23–Mar 22 - Info-A-Go-Go 2026
Sat. Jan 31 from 11 am–2 pm at Hotel Zoso - The Art of Science with Patrick Olson
Sat. at 7:30 pm, Sun. at 2 pm at Studio 1068 - Rock the Park: Bruno & The Hooligans
Wed. Feb 4 at 7 pm at Downtown Park, Palm Springs - National Wear Red Day – Women’s Cardiovascular Disease Awareness
Fri. Feb 6 - Hair – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
Feb 6–Mar 1 - PS Gay Softball New Player Clinic & Tryouts
Sat. & Sun. Feb 7 & 8 at Demuth Park - Modernism Week 2026
Feb 12–22 - Palm Springs Modernism Show
Sat. & Sun. Feb 14 & 15 at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Valentine’s Weekend Jazz Dinner
Fri. & Sat. Feb 13 & 14 at The Purple Room Supper Club - The Chase 2026
Sat. Feb 21 from 6–10 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center - Legends of Pop Festival: Madonna, Prince & Michael Jackson
Sat. Feb 28 at 6 pm at The Show - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 6–8 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Solid Gold Soul
Wed. Mar 11 at 7:30 pm at The Plaza Theatre - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Thu.–Sun., Mar 19–22 at The Gardens on El Paseo
Festival Theaters, Palm Springs’ exclusive home for first‑run cinema, festival favorites and beloved classics, offers a friendly front‑of‑house team serving a full range of sweet and savory concession goodies. Guests can enjoy fresh buttery popcorn, Nathan’s all‑beef hotdogs, cheesy nachos, a wide selection of candy and hand‑scooped gelato, along with beer on tap, an extensive wine selection and a variety of non‑alcoholic beverages. Learn more
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their high-energy throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY Sunday Tea Dance with Modgirl airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). All our DJs took honors in the Best of Coachella Valley this year! Listen to KGAY 103.1 online
This Week: Modgirl brings her signature spark on Thursday, January 29 at 7 pm with Women in the Mix at Lola Rose Grand Mezze in Palm Springs. She keeps the momentum rolling into Saturday, January 31 with a Poolside Saturday set at Ace Hotel & Swim Club, then turns up the heat that evening at 8 pm for LA SPECTACULAR at The Red Barn in Palm Desert. She closes things out on Sunday, February 1 at 10 am with a bright, beat‑forward A.M. Stream session at Café La Jefa in Palm Springs.
- Palm Springs International Airport Reports Record Passenger Growth and Major Improvements
- LA28 Olympic Ticket Draw Opens: Registration, Presales, Pricing and Key Dates
- Tim’s Ladder Trail Guide: Challenging Desert Hike, Sky Valley History and Panoramic Views
- Top Outdoor Dining Patios in Greater Palm Springs for Al Fresco Food and Scenic Views
- Festival Theaters Palm Springs Expands Independent, International, and LGBTQ+ Film Programming
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by Modgirl spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.