Gay Desert Guide: Week of Mar 9, 2026

Timothée Chalamet is suffering from foot in mouth disease. Last week he was in conversation with his “Interstellar” co-star Matthew McConaughey and basically said the opera and ballet were irrelevant.

“I don’t want to be working in ballet, or opera, or things where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive, even though like no one cares about this anymore.”  He went on to try to recover: “All respect to all the ballet and opera people out there.”

That didn’t go over so well.  Especially since he’s in a movie about table tennis, one of the more ballet-like “sports” out there, if you’re making a comparison.  I mean who goes to a ping pong tournament??

And try telling our Palm Springs Opera Guild and the many dance companies that grace our valley’s Arts & Entertainment scene that what they do is irrelevant.

This month, the Opera Guild will put on two important performances.  The first is rooted in LGBTQ+ history and has a contemporary parallel.  “Fellow Travelers” is set against the backdrop of the 1950’s Lavender Scare when gays and lesbians were being purged from the Federal government.  

Based on Thomas Mallon’s best-selling 2007 novel and on the heels of the 2023 CBS/Paramount mini-series starring Matt Bohmer and Jonathan Bailey, the opera guild presents the most powerful and tender scenes from the opera followed by a panel discussion with the cast and creative team.

That doesn’t feel any less relevant than Shakespeare.  In my youth, I visited the Globe Theatre and witnessed a motorcycle used in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s ”Taming of the Shrew” complete with the stage being torn down at the end of the performance!  

Each year, the Opera Guild puts on Opera In The Park, an opportunity to not only bring the community together, but also expand the reach of this art form.  (The event is set for March 29th in Sunrise Park.)

You can modernize and make relevant many stories and performances from history.  So while that offhand remark caused quite a stir, one must consider the source and not get their tights in a wad.  

Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide

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MON: DBA Mixer at Desert Hand Car Wash

The Desert Business Association gathers for its March Mixer at Desert Hand Car Wash on Monday, March 9 from 5:30–7 pm, offering members and guests a welcoming space to connect, meet first‑time attendees, and spark new conversations that strengthen the business community. The evening features the regular raffle supporting LGBTQ+ youth education scholarships through Safe Schools Desert Cities, along with the business‑card scan perk that provides every attendee with a digital contact sheet for easy follow‑up. More info

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BNP Paribas Open

The BNP Paribas Open is well underway, running through Sunday, March 15 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, and Tennis Paradise is set for another heavy-hitting edition. The 2026 field features nearly all of the top 100 ATP and WTA players, including Carlos Alcaraz, arriving fresh off a historic Australian Open win that completed his career Grand Slam. World No.1 Elena Rybakina, four‑time major champions Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner, and Grand Slam legend Novak Djokovic all make their bids for the title, while Coco Gauff and former champion Taylor Fritz lead a strong American contingent. Get tickets

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TUE: Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City

Tastes and Sounds of Cathedral City keeps the season moving on Tuesday, March 10 from 5:30–7:30 pm as Leanna & The Free Agents take the stage at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. Their lively, crowd‑pleasing sound pairs perfectly with food from TKB Food Truck, creating a relaxed evening of music and local flavor. More info

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WED: Mizell Center Business Partner Expo

The Mizell Center invites the community to its Business Partner Expo on Wednesday, March 11 from 11 am–1 pm, a lively midday event where visitors can meet and connect with the local businesses that support Mizell’s mission. Guests can explore tables throughout the concourse, learn about services and resources tailored to the senior community, and discover organizations that help strengthen wellness, engagement, and quality of life in the Coachella Valley. More info

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WED: Comedian Michael Blaustein

Michael Blaustein brings his fast‑rising, high‑voltage comedy to the McCallum Theatre on Wednesday, March 11 at 7 pm, offering a night packed with the sharp wit and viral energy that have made him one of today’s most in‑demand stand‑up performers. With more than 900 million views across social platforms, a sold‑out international tour, and the hit podcast Stiff Socks drawing millions of listeners, Blaustein arrives in the desert at the peak of his momentum. Get tickets

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WED: Solid Gold Soul

Solid Gold Soul brings a high‑energy celebration of classic Motown and ’60s soul to the Plaza Theatre on Wednesday, March 11 from 7:30–9:30 pm. Direct from a five‑year Las Vegas run, this hit show features the nation’s top soul impersonators channeling legends like Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, and more. If you love the golden era of soul music, this electrifying tribute delivers the look, sound, and spirit of the originals—making it a must‑see night in Palm Springs. Get tickets

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WED: Michael Cavanaugh – Movin’ Out

Michael Cavanaugh brings his rock‑and‑roll energy to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Wednesday, March 11 at 7 pm, as he joins The Desert Symphony for an evening celebrating the music of Billy Joel. Handpicked by Joel to lead the Broadway hit Movin’ Out, Cavanaugh channels the spirit and sound of the Piano Man with a performance packed with hits and symphonic punch. Get tickets

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OPENS WED: Desert Rocks – Music Photography

Desert Rocks: Music Photography by Harry Langdon and Jimmy Steinfeldt opens Wednesday, March 11 at the Artists Council Artist Center at the Galen, offering an all‑day exhibition through Sunday, April 5 that celebrates two masters of celebrity and rock‑and‑roll portraiture. Langdon’s iconic Hollywood images and Steinfeldt’s dynamic photographs of legendary musicians come together in a striking showcase that highlights the artistry, personality, and history behind some of entertainment’s most memorable figures. More info

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OPENS FRI: Beehive: The ’60s Musical

Beehive: The 1960’s Musical takes the stage at Desert Theatreworks from March 13–April 4, celebrating the dynamic women and defining sounds of the decade. Six performers guide audiences through 40 chart‑topping hits, including favorites like “My Boyfriend’s Back,” “Son of a Preacher Man,” and “You Don’t Own Me.” With music made famous by Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, and Janis Joplin, this high‑energy revue captures the spirit, style, and unstoppable voices that shaped a generation. Get tickets

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FRI–WED: Fashion Week El Paseo

Fashion Week El Paseo returns to The Gardens on El Paseo from Friday, March 13 through Wednesday, March 18, bringing the sophistication and creative energy that have made it the West Coast’s largest fashion week. Guests can explore an immersive lineup of runway shows, designer showcases, cocktail receptions, pop‑up shopping, and celebrity appearances, all set against the luxury and style of Palm Desert. With top established designers, emerging talents, and a state‑of‑the‑art venue, this signature event offers a world-class celebration of fashion innovation in the heart of the desert. Get tickets

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OPENS FRI: Sunset Boulevard

Palm Canyon Theatre brings Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard to the stage beginning Friday, March 13 at 7:30 pm, launching a run through Sunday, April 5. This darkly glamorous musical follows the fateful collision between a struggling screenwriter and a forgotten silent‑film star, unfolding a story of ambition, obsession, and the price of fame. With sweeping melodies, striking Hollywood noir atmosphere, and classic moments such as “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” this production offers a dramatic and compelling night of theatre. Get tickets

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FRI: Seth Meyers

Seth Meyers brings his sharp wit and signature storytelling to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, March 13 at 8 pm. Known for his Emmy‑winning work on Saturday Night Live and as the longtime host of Late Night with Seth Meyers, he delivers smart, fast‑paced stand‑up that blends personal observations with the cultural humor audiences love. Get tickets

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FRI–SUN: Chicago Under the Stars

Chicago lights up the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre when Desert Theatricals presents the iconic musical Friday–Sunday, March 13–15, bringing its sizzling jazz, sharp wit, and irresistible Fosse‑style flair to one of the desert’s most beautiful outdoor venues. Audiences can choose general admission seating with food and drink available for purchase, or elevate the evening with dinner‑theatre seating featuring a waiter‑served meal by Wally’s Desert Turtle—an ideal way to enjoy Broadway under the stars. Get tickets

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Meteor Shower

Desert Ensemble Theatre brings Steve Martin’s sharp, surreal humor to the stage with Meteor Shower, running March 6–15 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. This cosmic comedy follows a seemingly simple evening of dinner and stargazing that unravels into a whirlwind of absurdity, unexpected twists, and Martin’s signature off‑beat brilliance. Audiences can expect a fast-paced, imaginative ride that turns the ordinary into the hilariously extraordinary. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh calls it “a comedy that keeps you guessing, laughing, and occasionally wondering if you’ve slipped into an alternate universe.” Read his full review and Get tickets

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Guys and Dolls

CVRep delivers a bold new take on Damon Runyon’s New York with Guys and Dolls, running through March 22. This dynamic production drops audiences into the grit and glamour of Prohibition, where gamblers, nightclub performers, and missionaries collide in a fast‑moving mix of charm, scheming, and romance. Follow Nathan Detroit’s scramble to launch the city’s biggest craps game, Adelaide’s long wait for a wedding, and Sky Masterson’s unexpected pursuit of Sarah Brown in a sharply reimagined version of the award‑winning musical comedy. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh called the production “Pure theatrical delight!…every element locks together with precision.” Read his full review and Get tickets

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Camp Morning Wood

Camp Morning Wood continues its west coast premiere run, presented by the new PRISM Theater at The 4707 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

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This Week at the Plaza Theatre

The Plaza Theatre delivers a standout week beginning Tuesday, March 10 with Michael Childers Presents One Night in Hollywood, the long‑awaited return of Childers’ star‑studded musical spectacular, with net proceeds supporting future community programming at the theatre. The excitement continues Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14 with rePLAY: The Tale of The Allergist’s Wife, Charles Busch’s sharp, hilarious modern comedy brought to life by an acclaimed cast including Sebastian Arcelus, Stephanie J. Block, Charles Busch, Alix Korey, and Chris Carranza. The week wraps on a high note Sunday, March 15 as The Black Jacket Symphony takes the stage to perform Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon in a powerful, note‑for‑note concert experience. Get tickets

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This Week at the McCallum

The McCallum Theatre offers a rich and varied week of performances, beginning Tuesday, March 10 at 7 pm with Celtic Spells, a sweeping Irish love story set in the early 1900s. On Thursday, March 12 at 7 pm it’s the McCallum Cabaret, featuring Grammy‑nominated vocalist Clint Holmes in an evening of jazz, pop, and timeless songbook favorites. Friday is a SOLD-OUT show with Michael Feinstein. On Saturday, March 14 at 8 pm, audiences are transported to the Emerald Isle with Ireland With Michael – Live!, a multimedia celebration of Irish music, dance, and storytelling led by tenor Michael Londra. The week concludes Sunday, March 15 at 3 pm with Untangling the Mind, an illuminating journey into the science of thoughts, emotions, and memory guided by neuroscientist Steve Ramirez. Get tickets

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ALSO THIS WEEK

• Premium Whisky Tasting – SOLD OUT
  Mon. Mar 9 from 6–8 pm at The Purple Room
• “Through the Lens, Photographs” Exhibition & Sale
  Thu. Mar 12 from 5–7 pm at Artists Center
• Palm Springs Walk of the Stars Dedication: Dolores Robinson
  Fri. Mar 13 at 1 pm at 849 North Palm Canyon Drive
• Lucie Arnaz (SOLD OUT)
  Fri. & Sat. Mar 13 & 14 at The Purple Room
• Tethered – Ring & Judgment
  Fri.–Sun. Mar 13–15 at private location in Palm Springs
• Second Saturday Book Swap
  Sat. Mar 14 from 12–4 pm at Perez Road Art District
• Int’l Classical Concerts of the Desert: Sirena Huang, Violin & Chin-Yi Chen, Piano
  Sat. Mar 14 at 3 pm at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church
• The Lofts Art Walk
  Sat. Mar 14 from 4–7 pm at The Lofts Art District, Belardo Rd.
• Indio Second Saturdays
  Sat. Mar 14 at 7 pm in Downtown Indio
• Elvis: The Early Years with Scot Bruce
  Sun. Mar 15 from 5–8:30 pm at The Purple Room
• Ongoing
  • Mondays
    • ‘Mahjong Mondays | 1–3:30 pm at The Social Cafe & Play Lounge
    • Hot Spot Trivia with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
  • Tuesdays
    • Let’s Bingo Again with Vanity Halston | 7 pm at Ace Hotel & Swim Club
  • Wednesdays
    • Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned | 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City
  • Thursdays
    • VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
    • Cabaret L’Amour | 7 pm at The Velvet Rope Hotel
  • Fridays
    • Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
    • Drag Bingo | 4:30–7 pm at Arrive Hotel
  • Saturdays
    • Sober & Strong | 8–9 am at Atlas Training Club
    • Dance Ranch: Beginner Two-Step with Rob Ollander-Krane | 7 pm at Step by Step

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SAYKGAY to Save on 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% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now

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NEW Spring 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!

Check out the latest Spring 2026 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, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.

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Ask a Gay Doc Episode 32: Hepatitis A

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 32, We learn that Hepatitis A is showing up in our wastewater samples locally. Dr. Corzano has the facts you need to know in the latest episode of Ask A Gay Doc:

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.

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THIS WEEKEND

The L-Fund: Luck Be a Lady

The L-Fund invites the community to an evening of celebration and support at Luck Be a Lady on Saturday, March 14 at 5 pm at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel. Guests will enjoy live music, dancing, dinner, casino games, and a lively auction, all in support of The L-Fund’s mission to empower lesbians through philanthropy. Get tickets

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Boy George & Culture Club

Boy George & Culture Club bring their iconic sound to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, March 14 at 8 pm, delivering a night filled with the timeless hits that helped define an era. From chart‑toppers like “Karma Chameleon” to “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me,” the Grammy‑winning group showcases the style, charisma, and global impact that made them one of the most influential pop acts of the 1980s. Get tickets

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Brides of March Pub Crawl

The Brides of March Pub Crawl returns to Palm Springs on Saturday, March 14 from 2–5 pm, inviting everyone to slip into a thrift‑store wedding dress and join the fun. Beginning at Streetbar and continuing to several nearby stops, this playful, satirical tradition blends lighthearted street‑theatre energy with a relaxed, social afternoon on Arenas Road. More info

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Broadway’s Best in the West: Tony Yazbeck

Tony Yazbeck takes the spotlight on Saturday, March 14 at 7 pm as Broadway’s Best in the West Season 3 continues at the Palm Springs Cultural Center/Camelot Theatre. Known for standout performances in productions such as the revival of On the Town and the musical revue The Prince of Broadway, Yazbeck brings his acclaimed talent, dynamic presence, and award‑nominated artistry to this celebrated concert series. Get tickets

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☘️ St. Patrick’s Day on the Water

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a uniquely Palm Desert way with the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa’s St. Patrick’s Boat Experience, offered March 13, 14, 17, 20, and 21 from 4–9 pm. Guests can enjoy a private 25‑minute cruise for up to eight people through the resort’s scenic waterways, complete with refreshing brews, savory bites, and stunning desert views — plus a complimentary drink for anyone wearing green. More info

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• Premium Whiskey Tasting (SOLD OUT)
  Mon. Mar 9 at 6 pm at The Purple Room Supper Club
• BNP Paribas Open
  Mar 1–15 at Indian Wells Tennis Garden
• Comedian Michael Blaustein
  Wed. Mar 11 at 7 pm at the McCallum Theatre
• Michael Cavanaugh – Movin’ Out, in concert with The Desert Symphony
  Wed. Mar 11 at 7 pm at The Show
• Fashion Week El Paseo
  Fri.–Wed. Mar 13–18 at The Gardens on El Paseo
• Sunset Boulevard – presented by Palm Canyon Theatre
  Mar 13–Apr 5
• Meteor Shower – presented by Desert Ensemble Theatre
  Mar. 6–15 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
• Guys and Dolls – presented by CVRep
  Feb 25–Mar 22
• Camp Morning Wood – presented by PRISM Theater
  Jan 23–Mar 22
• The L-Fund Presents: Luck Be a Lady
  Sat. Mar 14 at 5 pm at Renaissance Palm Springs
• Palm Desert Food & Wine
  Thu.–Sun., Mar 19–22 at The Gardens on El Paseo
• Boot Barn PBR Greater Palm Springs
  Fri.–Sat. Mar 20–21 at Acrisure Arena
• Susan Rice: Funny Old Bag
  Fri. Mar 20 at 7 pm at the Annenberg Theater
• Red Dress Dress Red Party
  Sat. Mar 21 at 8 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum
• Matthew Morrison
  Sun. Mar 22 at 7 pm at The Plaza Theatre
• PRIDE for the Pride Party
  Thu. Mar 26 at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
• Trans Pride 2026: “Empower and Employ”
  Sat. Mar 28 from 11 am–3 pm at Demuth Park
• You Gotta Have Heart / Desert Winds Freedom Band
  Sat. Mar 28 at 7 pm at Temple Isaiah Palm Springs
• Palm Springs Speaks: CeCe Moore, genetic genealogist
  Mon. Mar 30 at 7:30 pm at the Plaza Theatre
• Rock the Park: Songbird (Barbra Streisand Tribute)
  Wed. Apr 1 at 7 pm at Downtown Palm Springs Park
• Desert Legends Women’s Weekend
  Apr 2–5 at Hotel Zoso
• Modern Men Presents Sing Out!
  Apr 17–19 at the Plaza Theatre