The Desert Scene

On this episode of The Desert Scene, Bonnie G. chats with actress Shirley LeMaster about her role in Script2Stage2Screen's next production, A Cozy Murder.

Desert ARC's President and CEO Richard Balocco, joins Bonnie G. and talks about the services the organization provides to more than 700 clients across the Coachella Valley. They will be hosting their 5th Annual Champions of Change Recognition Awards luncheon honoring people and enterprises in the community who have made a tremendous positive impact on the organization's operations on February 8th. Listen in for the details!

Palm Springs is welcoming it's first "Sister City." San Miguel de Allende, located in Mexico's central highlands, is known for its baroque Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene and cultural festivals. Al Jones, who heads the Sister City Committee in Palm Springs, talks with Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene about a series of events that kick off this week in forging this official relationship with the Coachella Valley's signature city.

Jan Lupia, Founder and Executive Director of Mama's House, discusses their annual Heartbeat of Love Luncheon. The Keynote speaker will Dr. Ben Carson.

Bonnie G. welcomes Ruth Moir, Executive Director of the Steinway Society, to chat about their upcoming fundraiser, Bravo - Children in Music, honoring musician and radio personality Jimi "FITZ" Fitzgerald.

Bonnie G. visits with Jill Miller. She is the Chair of the Springs Country Club Educational Scholarship Fund. They are hosting their annual Scholarship Luncheon, which helps raise money to send some deserving Coachella Valley students to college. The event is coming up this month and she shares the details.

On this episode of The Desert Scene, host Bonnie G. welcomes Dan Gelfand, the producer of the new musical Mid-Century Moderns. After a successful run at the Desert Rose Playhouse last year, the show dubbed "a jukebox musical at its best," has moved to Oscar's in Palm Springs. It features the music of Tom Jones, Petula Clark, Lesley Gore and Frank Sinatra.

Award-winning Los Angeles-based actor Eric Patrick Harper is preparing to star in Dezart Performs upcoming dark comedy A Bright New Boise. The show will run from January 13 to 22. Eric joins Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene and talks about the show that involves Hobby Lobby and the tragic past of a new employee.

Bonnie G. welcomes local desert-area artist Tysen Knight on this episode to discuss several upcoming projects including his Black History Exhibit at the Desert Art Center in Palm Springs and the Los Angeles Art Show at the L.A. Convention Center.

Bonnie G. welcomes crooner Larry Capeloto to The Desert Scene. He has just kicked off his 7th season performing at the Indian Wells Resort Hotel.

Jazz pianist/singer Joe Croyle joins Bonnie G. to preview two great new musical jams he's hosting...at Woodhaven Country Club and at Jax Restaurant in Cathedral City on this episode of The Desert Scene.

Bonnie G. chats on this episode of The Desert Scene with animal advocate Anna Miller about a wonderful free service she has spearheaded to scan lost pets for chips so they can be reunited with their owners.

The multi-talented Michael Holmes, owner of the Purple Room nightclub joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene. He shares a preview of the long-awaited return of The Judy Show in Palm Springs.

On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G. she is joined by Lorie Loftis, owner of The Shops on San Pablo. She discusses a variety of upcoming events at the venue, including fashion shows, music and a live auction.

Bonnie G. welcomes cantor and internationally acclaimed singer Svetlana Portnyansky, who'll be presenting a special program at Temple Sinai, sponsored by Jewish Family Services of the Desert. A graduate of one of Moscow's prestigious music academies, Svetlana sings in four languages.  A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit a Ukrainian Relief Fund.

Bonnie G. chats with John Diskin and Rita Capponi, founders and co-owners of Grand Central Cafe in the La Plaza Center in the heart Palm Springs. It features a diverse menu, special Tequila Thursdays, an in-house art gallery, and rental space for special events. They've adopted the catchphrase used by their namesake, Grand Central Station in New York City - "Meet Us Under The Clock!"

Bonnie G. welcomes Marnie Mitze of the Friends of the Palm Springs Philharmonic. Their exciting season featuring symphonies from around the world kicks of November 2nd with the Israel Philharmonic featuring Conductor Lahav Shani. For more information and tickets, CLICK HERE. 

Bonnie G. chats with Dr. Lisa Lindley, CEO of the Coachella Valley Symphony about their new performance home at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre. She also previews the Symphony's 2022/2023 Concert Series, including the March event which features the music of the Moody Blues. For more information and to get tickets, visit their website by CLICKING HERE.

Stephanie Greene joins Bonnie G. on The Desert Scene about the kickoff of First Fridays El Paseo, a monthly evening of fun events along the desert’s ritzy shopping district. Stephanie talks about El Paseo’s emergence post-pandemic and many exciting happenings including an Art Walk and a Cruise Night with classic cars. The retail heart of Palm Desert has also enhanced transportation for shoppers from one end to the other and you’ll learn more about that.For more information, CLICK HERE.

Veteran Broadway singer Jeff Barnett entertains audiences in Palm Springs and joins Bonnie G. for conversation about two upcoming shows he's part of at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. First up is happening this week with the October edition of Razzle Dazzle on the 27th. Then, on November 11th, film soundtrack fans are in for a treat that’s no trick! It’s Movie Magic! Listen in for all the details.For more information, CLICK HERE.

Carlynne McDonnell is the Founder and President of Barkee Laroux's House of Love, which rescues abandoned, neglected, and hospice senior dogs and provides them with forever homes. She chats with Bonnie G about her mission to provide care and end of life options for these vulnerable animals, and what it takes to keep this vital organization up and running. Carlynne stresses that at Barkee Laroux's, the resident animals are NEVER left unattended, and are NEVER adopted out.

Writer-Producer-Director Sherry Halperin talks with Bonnie G about her spicy, funny new book, Mistress Molly (and Her Senior Sex Club). She produced the award-winning feature film Adopt a Sailor, and was past president of Palm Springs Women in Film and Television. Sherry's new book, and first two, Rescue Me, He's Wearing a Moose Hat, and the romantic comedy Just Call Me Lady, have all been optioned for possible films. Sherry is a humorist who strongly believes in the power of laughter to heal.

Former educator and performer Thom McMorris is joining Razzle Dazzle with Bonnie G. In this episode, he talks about his past with his mother as a dance teacher, his joys of being a performer, and his thoughts on the art of singing.

All the party goblins are coming out this Halloween season to boogie in style. Jeff Hocker is the producer of the annual Palm Springs Halloween on Arenas Road. He joins Bonnie G. on this episode of The Desert Scene to talk about this year's star-studded line-up featuring more treats than tricks including multiple artists that will be familiar to fans of American Idol, local performers Probe 7, and the fabulous costume contest for attendees. For more details, CLICK HERE.

Dezart Performs is kicking off its 15th Season with Drama Desk- and Obie Award-winning plays that will highlight the 2022-2023 schedule. Artistic Director Michael Shaw joins Bonnie G on this episode of The Desert Scene and talks about the company’s progress as a equity theatre and upcoming shows including Tony-nominated drama Choir Boy, which will be staged from October 28 to November 6, and is followed by the dark comedy A Bright New Boise in mid-January.For more information, CLICK HERE.

One of the season’s biggest events in the Coachella Valley – this one benefiting the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center – takes place on Wednesday, November 9th at 6 pm at the McCallum Theatre. That’s when the 16th annual installment of Michael Childers Presents One Night Only will bring to life the Broadway sounds of New York, New York! On this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G she visits with Julie Garnyé, who is one of more than twenty stars of stage and screen performing in this year’s extravaganza.CLICK HERE for Tickets

Joni Padduck is joining Bonnie G on this episode to talk about the upcoming season of Script2Stage2Screen. It all starts on October 21st with "Don't Vote For Me". A political feel-good story about how far one will go to save the heart and soul of a small town. This will be among many stage reading performances and an opportunity for playwrights to gain wisdom from their audience.

The Desert Cancer Foundation's Eevet Eden joins for a conversation on the upcoming 16th Annual "Paint El Paseo Pink". A community walk that helps raise funds for local Palm Springs residents seeking breast cancer treatment, and emotional support. In this episode, find out how to help out in the community, how to sign up for the event and what you can do to help local cancer fighters.

Jerome Elliot joins Bonnie G. to talk to about Singing with the Desert Stars. A one-time performance that will benefit the Desert Ensemble Theatre's internship and scholarship program on October 7th. The event includes coaching from the desert's best singers and some healthy singing competition. Hear all about it on this episode!

This episode's special guest is Ellen Goodman, Director for The Foundation of PSUSD (Palm Springs Unified School District). A non-profit designed to raise money for local schools. She talks about One Night Out: Havana Nights, an event of Cuban inspired vintage music with many guest stars. All raising money for a great cause!

DeAnn Lubell's life forever changed when tragedy struck her dog Amy. In the midst of it, she decided to begin "Amy's Purpose", an organization that educates the public about pet safety and the dangers of predators. "Pet Love and Rock & Roll" is an upcoming benefit concert and reception that will help raise funds for scholarships specifically cater to meet the need for more vets. DeAnn talks with Bonnie G. about her goal in educating the public, her tragedy, and the exciting guests that will performing.

Robbie Wayne is transitioning into a new era of his life with UnScripted! An upcoming series of live shows described as a mix of "SNL", musical guests, and late night. Bonnie G and Robbie Wayne will be discussing his life changes, musical ambitions and potential guests for his show!

Singer and Performer Julie Garnye made a name for herself, and became the only Non-New York based performer to be invited and appear in the all-star Stephen Schwartz tribute concert. She has performed songs from a variety of shows like Hair, CATS, Wicked, Bye Bye Birdie, and West Side Story. In this episode, she talks with Bonnie G. talks about her latest show, her upbringing and how she saved a show when Idina Menzel cancelled! You wouldn't want to miss that one!

Singer Craig Pomranz was once described by Teddy King as an artist that one can listen to over and over again. He has embraced the Great Songbook and taking risks with it. Being able to sell out many shows as he grew in popularity in New York. On this episode, he talks with Bonnie G about his growth as an artist, changing with the times, and the relevance of the standards in today's discourse.

Retried composer Joe Giarrusso visits with Bonnie about an upcoming concert from the  Palm Springs International Piano Competition featuring Christopher Richardson. Playing a variety of musical classics to popular hits the program will include crossover / popular fare such as William Hirtz' Fantasy on Harold Arlen's Wizard of Oz, and Presley/Schmidt's Can't Help Falling In Love, and the jazzy Tom and Jerry Show by Uehara. The branching out from a strict classical concert is part of PS IPC's strategy for reaching more diverse audiences. 

Willie's and the city of Rancho Mirage presents: Willie's Broadway Block Party!Starring the talents of the students of the Musical Theatre University, and even yourself! It is an open mic, along with it being a fully staged Broadway style show. Program coordinator David Green talks with Bonnie G. about the ambitious nature of the show, and the history of the Musical Theatre University.

Performer Jeff Barnett is back at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, celebrating the music of the movies! Featuring such amazing talents like Dana Adkins, Chip Prince, Charles Herrera and Lizzie Schmelling. He talks with Bonnie G. about the inspiration behind the show, and some of the major themes he tackles.

Jason Graae famously combines cabaret with his "not so straight" sense of comedy charm. He has starred on stage in shows including Godspell with the iconic Scott Bakula. Jason has appeared in must-see television including Friends, Frasier, Living Single and HBO's Six Feet Under. On this episode of The Desert Scene, he talks with Bonnie G about his career, and his upcoming musical cabaret show in the Coachella Valley.

Lynda Kay was once described by Billy Bob Thornton saying "She's like Dusty Springfield, Patsy Cline and Roy Obrison all rolled into one." Ms. Kay has had an eventful life from aspiring to be an attorney to appearing in some of the most critically acclaimed plays and shows. Now, Lynda is performing cabaret. Bonnie G talks with her about a fascinating life story, including some FBI intrigue on The Desert Scene.

Siobhan Velarde has finally moved to Palm Springs, YAY! Which means we get to see more of her and her risque performances. She has an upcoming show called The Vixen Show over at the Runway Bar. It is a night of sexuality, singing and cabaret antics. She talks with Bonnie about the show, their friendship and what it means to be the "Soup.Queen".

Vocalist Ari Axelrod has performed for many years now, putting together musical tapestries influenced by the great artists of the past. He pays further tribute to his own Jewish heritage and Broadway heritage in A Place For Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway. On this episode, Bonnie talks with him about his musical origins, his cultural background, and the ways to define Jewish Broadway.

Anne Greer is putting together a show called ACT FOR MS(Multiple Sclerosis) which is filled with great jazz performers including Bill Marx. On today's episode, she talks about this show, along with her own personal history with MS in her family, and how this show helps the local MS community.

Glenn Rosenblum is a very busy singer, actor, and "musical mensch." Working on several projects including off-Broadway hits like Lucky Lucy and The Fortune Man and in TV hits like Bones. He is also known for being a broker to the stars, even creating his own website! He's coming to CV Rep to do a show called: Broadway Showstoppers: Musicals of the 1970s with previous guest Ilene Graff. He talks with Bonnie Gilgallon about his experiences in the theatre world, and his origins on the piano.

Ilene Graff has starred in many great musicals over the years: Grease, I Love My Wife, and Promises, Promises. Along with starring in many great TV shows. She has created a career for herself that has lasted over the decades, and now she is performing in a show with Glen Rosenblum called: Broadway Showstoppers The Musicals of the 1970's! She talks with Bonnie Gilgallon about her career, family legacy, and what she loves seeing in other performers.

Cabaret Singer and Pianist Steve Ross has interpreted the works of such beloved artists Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin. A lover of ragtime and cabaret, he has done everything including playing clubs in Washington D.C. He has an upcoming show at CV Rep, and he talks to Bonnie about it, along with his musical origins.

Award winning producer and artist Dan Guerrero has given due respect to both LGBT and Chicano history. Now it is his turn to remember his father Lalo Guerrero, who is the "Father of Chicano Music" with a film screening, and musical performances from his brother Mark. He talks to Bonnie G. about the importance of culture, being productive and his father's legacy.

Edmund Bagnell plays the Violin! He started off as Tobias in the first national tour of John Doyle's staging of Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. This has led to performing all over the globe. Becoming the first violinist of the string quarter Well Strung, which has topped the charts! He comes onto the show with Bonnie Gilgallon to talk about his upcoming show at the CV Rep!

The Desert Rose Playhouse is taking on one of their most ambitious projects: not just one, BUT TWO PLAYS. Mae West's "Drag" and "Sex". Both provocative, scandalous, and surprisingly modern. Both shows famously landed West into a great deal of trouble, then again it is Mae West! If trouble isn't there, then its not worth it. Bonnie Gilgallon talks this double feature with Robbie Wayne.

Singer and host Maryse Nicole has had a fascinating history as a performer, including working with the Monkees. She is also a designer for not only women's fashion but for porcelain dolls. When it comes to entertainment, she hosts entertaining events where her customers can enjoy a variety of singers of different kinds. She comes onto the show to talk about music, fashion, and where to check out her fantastic events.

Singer Jeff Barnett once saw a performance of Godspell and it changed his life forever. For the last couple months, he has done Razzle Dazzle at the Palm Springs Cultural Center with our host Bonnie Gilgallon. Showcasing the very best of pop standards and broadway. He comes onto the show to talk about his origins as a singer, his struggles, and what to expect from his monthly show.