“The magic of theatre is how much can you stimulate the mind of the audience, not how many illusions you can create,” said Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah. Our local theatre companies are certainly living up to Shah’s mantra.
I saw The Light at the Piazza”over the weekend at CV Rep and came away happy and with a swirl of thoughts about relationships and love . That’s a nice distraction after a week of the new administration.
Friends and reviewers are also gushing about many of the other performances currently staged and running. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh has been sitting in the dark for extended periods as the new year begins, reviewing the many great productions that are gracing our stages. He’s thumbs ups on these and you can read all of his reviews from the link.
We’re fortunate to have such great talent to fill those roles in Greater Palm Springs. Some come from Los Angeles to sharpen their skillls; others have moved to the desert and call it home. And we’ve also cultivated a number of new actors through mentoring programs within the theatre companies as well as through College of the Desert’s drama program.
We don’t have splashy venues like Vegas’ “Sphere”, but what we do have is a committed community of mostly non-profit theatre companies that live to delight and inspire us. Be sure to actively support them by putting your butt in a seat and consider making a contribution.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Illusionist Rick Thomas – Mansion of Dreams
Experience the magic of Illusionist Rick Thomas in “Mansion of Dreams” at the McCallum Theatre on Monday, January 27 from 7-9 pm. This captivating show features breathtaking grand illusions, taking audiences of all ages through the mysteries within the Mansion’s walls. Rick Thomas, a world-renowned illusionist, has completed five world tours, performed at Caesars Colosseum, headlined the Sydney Opera House, and starred in Las Vegas for 15 years. Get tickets
Lunar New Year
Celebrate the Lunar New Year in style at Hotel Zoso on Wednesday, January 29 from 5 pm–8 pm. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of culture, cuisine, and celebration as “The Kitchen” unveils their exciting new Asian-influenced menu. Delight in raffle prizes and complimentary succulent, mouth-watering appetizers. Bring good fortune into the New Year! More info
The Book of Mormon
Catch The Book of Mormon at the McCallum Theatre from Thursday to Saturday, January 30–February 1, with performances at 8 pm on Thursday, 2 pm and 8 pm on both Friday and Saturday. This nine-time Tony Award® winning musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries. Praised as “the best musical of this century” by The New York Times and “the funniest musical of all time” by Entertainment Weekly, this international sensation has captivated audiences worldwide. Please note, the show contains explicit language. Get tickets
DBA January Networking Mixer
Mark your calendar for the Desert Business Association’s January Networking Mixer on Monday, January 27, from 5:30–7 pm, hosted by All People’s Presbyterian Church. This exciting evening offers a chance for DBA members to connect for free, while future members can join for just $20. Participate in the regular raffle supporting LGBTQ Youth Education Scholarships through Safe Schools Desert Cities—bring an item for the raffle and get a shout-out for your business. More info
Virtuoso Voyage
Join the Palm Springs International Piano Competition for their annual benefit: Virtuoso Voyage on Monday, January 27, from 4:30–6 pm. This event heralds the 2024-25 season with a tribute to Peggy Cravens and features pianist Nathaniel Zhang, winner of the 2019 Junior Division Competition. Proceeds support vital music education programs and competition offerings. The evening includes a lively cocktail reception and a gourmet dinner prepared by award-winning executive chef Luke Patterson. Get tickets
DBA Learns: AI in Business
Join the Desert Business Association for the second installment of DBA LEARNS: AI in Business on Wednesday, January 29 from 8:30 am–11 am. This educational seminar, presented by Andrew McCauley of Flashlight Marketing, will explore how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing growth, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. At this interactive workshop, you’ll gain valuable insights into AI best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and how to leverage AI for content creation, marketing, sales, and data analysis. Register today
The Light in the Piazza
CVRep presents The Light in the Piazza from January 22–February 2. Winner of six Tony Awards & five Drama Desk Awards, The Light in the Piazza takes us to the Tuscan countryside where, a beautiful, surprisingly childish young woman loses her hat in a sudden gust. As if guided by the hand of the Sistine Chapel, the hat lands at the feet of a handsome young Florentine man. But as events unfold and secrets are revealed we follow a love story unlike any other. Filled with a beautiful blend of classical and Broadway melodies, our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “This is a beautiful production of a not-often-produced musical and deserves a date on your calendar.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Chuck Yates as Tru
Desert Ensemble Theatre presents Tru from January 24–February 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Celebrating Truman Capote’s centennial year, actor Chuck Yates recreates his critically acclaimed performance that he created for Coyote StageWorks in 2013 (“Performer of the Decade,” Broadway World/Palm Springs). Capote remains a literary icon, but today is perhaps more known for his infamous betrayal of his society “Swans” in the pages of Esquire. Adapted from the writer’s own words and works, Tru is a one-person tour-de-force. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says of Yates: “A performance as nuanced and layered as this one is, is truly a joy to watch and should not be missed.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Spring Awakening
Revolution Stage Company presents Spring Awakening from January 14–30. This groundbreaking rock musical, based on Frank Wedekind’s controversial 1891 play, captures the turbulent journey of adolescence with unflinching honesty. Set in late 19th-century Germany, it tells the poignant story of teenagers grappling with sexual awakening, societal expectations, and identity. With powerful performances and a haunting score by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater, featuring unforgettable songs like “Mama Who Bore Me” and “The Bitch of Living,” this production speaks to the heart of growing up. Get tickets
Legally Blonde The Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Legally Blonde The Musical from January 17–February 9. Follow Elle Woods as she takes on Harvard Law, fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend. With infectious energy and catchy tunes, the show captures Elle’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she faces challenges from peers, professors, and her former flame, but with the help of newfound friends, she proves her resilience and determination. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Saturday, February 1
Overview of Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Nat’l Monument | 9:30–10:30 am at the Visitor Center
Palm Springs Art Festival | Sat. & Sun. from 10 am–4 pm at Frances Stevens Park
Country Dance Saturdays: Roll Back The Rug Line Dance Lesson with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Clint Black: 35th Anniversary of Killin’ Time | 8 pm at The Show
Sunday, February 2
Palm Springs Vintage Market | 7 am– 2 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
San Diego Symphony | 5 pm at the McCallum Theatre
DUI Checkpoint Friday
The Palm Springs Police Department will hold a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Friday, January 31 from 7 pm–2 am at an undisclosed location within the city limits of Palm Springs. Palm Springs Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Ask a Gay Doc Ep 20: Keeping New Year’s Resolutions
Dr. Renzo Corzano and KGAY’s John Taylor are answering your health-related questions in the Ask A Gay Doc series, sponsored by Desert Oasis Healthcare. In Episode 20, Dr Corzano shares tips on successfully keeping New Year’s health resolutions. Watch the Ask a Gay Doc series, and find out how you can submit your own questions, on the Ask a Gay Doc page at kgaypalmsprings.com.
Get our Free Visitor Map & Guide
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
Join us at Info-A-Go-Go on Saturday, February 1 from 11 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Pavilion. This one-stop-shop event is your opportunity to explore all things LGBTQ+ in the Coachella Valley. Now in its 8th year, the Info-A-Go-Go features diverse groups, clubs, organizations, and activities, all in one place. Hosted by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, this year’s focus is on building community, connection, and a sense of belonging. KGAY will be there and John Taylor will be broadcasting from 11 am–1 pm! Come and be part of this amazing gathering that is truly ‘for us and by us!’ More info
Sharon McNight: NO HOLDS BARRED!
The Purple Room Supper Club presents Sharon McNight: NO HOLDS BARRED! on Friday and Saturday, January 31 & February 2. Sharon is known for her “no holds barred” approach to performing which has earned the entertainer multiple honors and two Lifetime Achievement awards. She can make audiences laugh and cry at the same show with her eclectic bag of musical choices, ranging from blues to country to good old fashioned entertainment. Get tickets
Taste of Jalisco Festival
The Taste of Jalisco Festival in Cathedral City runs from Friday–Sunday, January 31–February 2 from 5–10 pm. This vibrant three-day celebration features live entertainment, a fair & carnival, an artisan market, tequila tastings, and mouthwatering Mexican cuisine like tacos and guacamole. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic sounds of live performers, explore handcrafted artisnal products, and enjoy the scenic desert backdrop. VIP packages offer exclusive access, premium tastings, and special amenities for an elevated festival experience. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
Palm Springs Black History Committee Awards Gala
The Palm Springs Black History Committee’s 15th Annual Awards Gala takes place on Saturday, February 1, from 6–8 pm at the Palm Springs Hilton. Desert X will be honored with the Community Partnership Award for their collaboration with the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center since 2021. Join the celebration and support the Black History Committee by purchasing tickets for this meaningful event. Get tickets
Billy Joel Tribute at The Gardens
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 1 at 4 pm with Billy Nation (Billy Joel Tribute), benefiting Voices for Children. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Journey Tribute (2/8), Rolling Stones Tribute (2/15), John Stanley King Band (2/22), Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8). Get tickets
LOOKING AHEAD
Red Dress Tickets on Sale February 12
Don’t miss the highly anticipated Red Dress/Dress Red Dance Party on Saturday, March 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 12 and are expected to sell out fast, so mark your calendar! This event, featuring a stunning venue and a great cause, has become a highlight of the Palm Springs social scene, raising support for The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert’s programs. Dress in red to show unity, solidarity, and community, and get ready for an unforgettable night. 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!
- Illusionist Rick Thomas – Mansion of Dreams
Mon. Jan 27 at the McCallum Theatre - Lunar New Year
Wed. Jan 29 from 5–8 pm at Hotel Zoso - The Book of Mormon
Thu.–Sat., Jan 30–Feb 1 at the McCallum Theatre - Sharon McNight: No Holds Barred!
Fri. & Sat. Jan 31 & Feb 1 at The Purple Room Supper Club - Info-A-Go-Go
Sat Feb 1 from 11 am–3 pm at the Palm Springs Pavilion - The Light in the Piazza, presented by CVRep
Jan 22–Feb 2 - Tru, presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
Jan 24–Feb 2 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center - Spring Awakening, presented by Revolution Stage Company
Jan 15–30 - Legally Blonde The Musical, presented by Desert Theatreworks
Jan 17–Feb 9 at the Indio Performing Arts Center - Tour of Norway: Meet Patrick Evans
Mon. Feb 3 from 4:30–6 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club - Rock the Park: Twisted Gypsy – Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Wed. Feb 5 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park - PS Test Fest Cocktail Party & Silent Auction
Thu. Feb 6 at 5:30 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge - Stephen Harper, Former Canadian Prime Minister
Fri. Feb 7 at 5 pm at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort - 27th Annual Tour de Palm Springs
Feb 7 & 8 in downtown Palm Springs - LGBTQ+ Victory Fund w/Keynote from Karine Jean-Pierre
Sat. Feb 8 from 11 am–2 pm in Palm Springs - Radical Harmonies Screening (Women’s Music Cultural Movement)
Sat. Feb 8 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - The Art Behind the Scarf – Textile Design of Fashion Icon Vera Neumann
Feb 8–Mar 3 at Rubine Red Gallery - Palm Springs Gay Softball League Tryouts & Clinics
Sun. Feb 9 at 9 am at Demuth Park - Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City
Feb 11–Apr 8, Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 pm at Cathedral City Amphitheater - Modernism Week – 20th Anniversary
Feb 13–23 - Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
Feb 13–Mar 2 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Out at the Fair at the Riverside County Fair
Sat. Feb 15 at Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio - Rhythms at the Riviera – “Elton” with Kenny Metcalf and the Early Years Band
Sat. Feb 15 at 8 pm at the Riviera Resort & Spa - Racist Trees Documentary Screening
Sun. Feb 16 at 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center - Dear Evan Hansen
Feb 21–23 at the McCallum Theatre - Annual Desert Pet Walk
Sat. Feb 22 from 9 am–Noon - Cathedral City LGBT+ Days
Mar 7–10 at Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza - Desert X 2025
Mar 8–May 12 at Various Locations Throughout Coachella Valley - Fashion Week El Paseo
Mar 14–19 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Red Dress Dress Red Party (Tickets on Sale Feb 12)
Sat. Mar 15 from 8 pm–Midnight at the Palm Springs Air Museum - Palm Desert Food & Wine
Mar 20–23 at The Gardens on El Paseo - Billy Idol: It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again! (Tickets on Sale Jan 24)
Fri. Sep 12 at 7:30 pm at Acrisure Arena
Feeling overwhelmed by senior living options for yourself or someone you love? Don’t go it alone. Assisted Living Locators is here to help—at no cost to you! With over 120 senior living options in the Coachella Valley, Assisted Living Locators finds the perfect fit for your needs. From board and care to assisted living, and memory care to independent living, they have you covered. Learn more
KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 FM
The KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 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 106.5 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 106.5 online
KGAY Wants to Hear From YOU!
As a KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 listener, you’re probably aware that we’ve been working hard to stay ahead of rapid changes in the radio and technology landscape. Our goal is to continue to provide great content the way that you want it on the platforms you use most often, so we’re inviting you to share your opinions about technology in our annual survey. Tell us how you use the radio, along with social media, smartphones, tablets, streaming and the web to stay connected to entertainment, news, and updates from KGAY and other sources. We hope you’ll find it to be an interesting way to reflect on your own changing habits as a KGAY fan and radio listener! Take the survey
103.1 MeTV FM
103.1 MeTV FM is KGAY’s sister station, featuring timeless and memorable music including the ‘60s and ‘70s with a touch of the ‘50s and ‘80s. Listen online
- What to Look Forward to in Greater Palm Springs for 2025
- Tribal Leaders and Local Communities Celebrate Forthcoming Chuckwalla National Monument Designation
- Hiking With T: The New Chuckwalla National Monument Includes Some of the Best Desert Hiking in Southern California
- Desert Open Studios Will Unite Coachella Valley Art Scenes from East and West This Weekend
- Living Pyramid at Sunnylands: A Stunning Blend of Art, Agriculture, and Sustainability
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 2025 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY 106.5 and 92.1 over the air, stream it [here], or listen on TuneIn Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-GAY 1065 from Tune In Radio.” 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 now 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.