The Desert Scene

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon talk about the controversial ABC News interview between Alec Baldwin and George Stephanopoulos. What does the actor need to do next as he walks the tight-rope of being sorry and empathetic and not ending up in deeper legal trouble in the aftermath of accidentally killing a cinematographer on location in New Mexico? They discuss his controversial statements.

The multi-talented Tim Bruneau brings Love, Light and Laughter to The Desert Scene as he talks about his upcoming joyful holiday celebration, along with the California Desert Chorale's amazing opportunities. The performance is on December 12, at 3 pm.For more information: https://www.californiadesertchorale.org

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Denise Strand, one of the stars of This Side of Crazy. She talks about theatre, Del Shores, her past performances, and life itself. Bassist Jenise Fryatt brings up her musical career ranging from Karaoke to her current gig with band Dragonwolfe. Lois Bourgon pops on to talk about her latest cabaret show, along with reminiscing about her past work, and about the legendary Debbie Reynolds. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza  present a very musical, whimsical and fashion-forward episode filled with a variety of guests. Singer Jeffrey Scott Adair talks about his versatile musical career and the Youth Theatre. Singer/Magician Jim Bentley talks magic, love, and music. Fashionista artist Susan Stein previews her upcoming art show.

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza discuss a wide array of topics including casting for the movie Wicked, and are always joined by a diverse party of guests! Broadcaster/Stand Up Comedian Fritz Coleman talks Aging Gracefully, a pandemic benefit show. Musician/Radio Host Brad Mercer jazzes up the space by promoting his gig at the Lit Lounge. Then Saxophonist Will Donato checks in to chat about his latest events, and his billboard number one hit Infinite Soul. 

The Desert Scene with Bonnie and Brayan continues to feature a diverse array of amazing guests and topics. Filmmaker Chip Miller comes on to talk about prop safety on movie sets, advising "Never assume, confirm everything". Singer Patricia Welch promotes her show Evening of Elegance, and the art of singing. Finally, Amanda McBroom, singer and songwriter of "The Rose", talks about her unique career and her newest show at the Purple Room. 

Producer and Singer Clifford Bell brings his Virtually Yours concert series to the discussion on this week's The Desert Scene with Bonnie G and Brayan Mendoza. Author David Perry talks about events at the Purple Room in Palm Springs and his plans for an upcoming book. And, director Chuck Yates shares the details on his upcoming performance of the musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

This week, Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk about local cultural event with Artistic Director Ron Celona who discusses the latest happenings at the CV Repertory. Professor Jeanette Knight shares details about the improv festival and the joys of improv. Then, Singer Brian Scott shares details about his musical career. Plus, other pertinent news from the world of arts and entertainment.

Juicy entertainment news stories, union strikes, and pop culture history are all in the spotlight on this week’s The Desert Scene. Along with that, Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon are joined by Singer Kristi King, who talks about her Legends show at Frankie's. Dezart's Artistic Director Michael Shaw discusses the theatre's upcoming season and its first-ever musical Girlfriend. And, Jerome Elliot, Artistic Director of the Desert Ensemble Theatre Company, joins the conversation this week to talk about his organization’s eleventh season opener, Reunited. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a discussion of the Tony Awards and the curious results. Topics in this episode discussed are: the controversial drowning girl statue in Spain, "Aladdin" closing on Broadway due to COVID positive tests and Britney Spears is now free of her father's control.  Guests in this episode: Siobhan Veladre, Alexis Hunter, Steve Fisher. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza are BACK! This week on The Desert Scene the two of them sing the praises of The Desert Rose Playhouse Production of The Rocky Horror Show. Other topics this week include The Emmys, ABBA coming back, and songs to not sing when you're not yet 18. Isn’t it creepy to see a 9 year old singing love songs on a nationally televised talent show?! Guests in this episode include Eevet Edens, Hope Diamond, and Scott Coulter. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon speak with business owner Lori Loftis about The Shops on San Pablo, her venue's events and her fashions. Actress Yo Younger talks about her show The Miss Firecracker Contest, which is set to be the first show returning to the Desert Rose Playhouse. Entertainment news discussed: Revisiting In The Heights, Sesame Street finally introducing a gay couple on tv (besides Burt & Ernie!), and Harrison Ford injures himself on set.

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Jamie Trachtenberg from Courageous Resistance about her stance on the controversy surrounding the Marilyn Monroe statue in downtown Palm Springs.. Then, environmentalist Tania Srebotnjak talks about her upcoming panel. Entertainment news discussed in the hour: Brittney Spears finally speaks out against her conservatorship, the censorship of Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Andrew Lloyd Webber is suing the UK government! 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up this hour talking with Kitty Murray Willensky about her upcoming cabaret show. Speaking of interviews, they also talk about the value of research in celebrity interviews. Then two filmmakers Marlena Skrobe, and Cole Bacani join the conversation to talk about their short films. Other stories discussed in this hour: Andrew Lloyd Webber's continued insistence on reopening, and Places Please offering up 500,000 in rent relief to NYC theatre workers. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open up with a conversation about the upcoming unveiling of the Marilyn Monroe statue, its controversy and their takes on it. Author Donna Rolfe comes onto the show to talk about her latest book. News discussed this hour include: Lin-Manuel Miranda's apology for the lack of Afrolatino representation, Ned Beatty passing away, and Paris Jackson's PTSD from years of harassment. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon dedicated the first segment to Judy Garland who would've celebrated her 99th birthday this year. Andrew Lloyd Webber has some issues opening up his theaters, which fits a different narrative in the beginning of the pandemic. Therapist and Author Carol Teitelbaum comes on to discuss how she tackles male sexual abuse in her latest book. Other news discussed on the show include: Elin Hilderbrand's problematic Anne Frank mentioned in her book being removed, and Taraji P Henson joining the cast of Annie Live! 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up the show discussing a local GoFundMe to save The Desert Rose Playhouse and the need for volunteers to help finish it. Later on, Singer Jerome Elliot joins the conversation to talk about his upcoming musical performance, while he's at rehearsals! News tackled in this episode: Sinead O'Connor Retiring (and not retiring), and Frank Sinatra's former manager speaks out on the Ronan Farrow/Sinatra connection. 

Bonnie Gilgallon brings on CV REP Vice President David Cohan, as he discusses the alliance that local theatres must form to stay afloat. Then she talks to photographer Mary Ann Haplin about her craft, and inspiration. Later on the show, Brayan Mendoza talks about the lack of Asian Representation in media, and the significance of this week in pop culture history! 

Bonnie Gilgallon opens up a show she recently attended in town, and where she met Kristin Chenoweth. Brayan Mendoza then talks about Ricky Martin's past interview with Barbra Walters, and his PTSD associated with it. Other news discussed in this hour include: Sinead O'Connor's alleged nightmare with Prince, and paying tribute to Gavin MacLeod, BJ Thomas, Samuel E. Wright, and John Davis. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open the show by discussing the upcoming LGBT "Everybody is Awesome" Lego set, and the end of the Annenberg Theater. They also invite Dan Gore, the owner of Oscars to discuss upcoming events, and various other entertainment tidbits. Other news discussed in this hour include an upcoming Cher biopic, the "Hot Cheetos" scandal, and Charles Grodin dying. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan mendoza open the show with vocalist Sharon Sills about her musical career, her inspirations and upcoming shows. Author Dan Perry comes on to talk about writing, his book Upon This Rock, and its most recent award win. Other news discussed in this segment include: Demi Lovato coming out as non-binary, Billy Porter revealing his HIV postiive status, and WarnerMedia merging with Discovery.

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza chat with Jeffrey Norman of the McCallum Theatre to promote the upcoming 2021-2022 season. Director/Performer/Writer Patricia West Del-Ruth(PDR) comes on later to discuss her upcoming experimental show "Holy Matrimony"(That also stars Brayan too!). Other news discussed include: Caleb Kennedy's exit from American Idol, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Big Three returning to Broadway. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up the show with a deep dive into the Golden Globes controversy and Ellen DeGeneres leaving the show. Later on, They invite Deanne LuBell to discuss her newly formed nonprofit "Amy's Purpose", which is dedicated to educating the public about predator awareness, prevention, and pet safety. Other news discussed include: Seth Rogen disavowing James Franco and a felony charge related to a 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' VHS Tape from 1999. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with vocalist Rebecca Clarkk about her musical career, and upcoming projects. Then they discuss Mark Hamill's heartbreaking visit with a chronically ill young man. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon remember the life of Olympia Dukakis, a legend of stage and screen. Then invite Michael Holmes of the Purple Room to discuss the fundraising page to save his establishment! Learn how you can help! 

There is so much to unpack when it comes to the Academy Awards this year, that Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon have to dedicate three whole segments! Everything will be discussed including the decision to have the best actor last, Chloe Zhao's accomplishment, and the overall dismal presentation. Other news discussed include Brittney Spears speaking out, and Elon Musk hosting Saturday Night Live.

Bonnie Gillgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Cabret Producer/Performer Clifford Bell to discuss upcoming musical events, and a special experience with the Duke and Duchess. Hank Plante comes by later on to discuss his career as a journalist and gives insight into interviews with past Presidents/First Ladies. News discussed in this segment include: Broadway reopening in September (Maybe), and Scott Rudin resigning from the Broadway League. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Comedian Shann Carr to discuss the dying lesbian bar scene, and the upcoming Academy Awards. Artist Tysen Knight shows up halfway in the show to discuss mentorship in the arts, and getting your art to a wider audience. News talked about this in hour include the Scott Rudin scandal, and Sharon Stone's revelation about her famous scene in Basic Instinct. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon bring along Julie Montante, owner of the 420 Bank and Lounge, to discuss the potential that cannabis has for the community, and the arts. Then James Beauton, Youth Musician Conductor of the Coachella Valley Symphony, calls in to talk about upcoming events and plans for the CV Symphony. This segment includes fun facts about pop culture history that took place from April 22-24 of any given year. News includes: Levar Burton hosting Jeopardy, and Shaq being a great guy (find out what he did in this hour).

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a discussion on the writing process, in particular how George RR Martin continues to delay his novel The Winds of Winter. Singer Leanna Rodgers comes onto the show to talk about her musical influences. Other news this hour includes: Mia Farrow addressing rumors, Will Smith moving his movie production away from Georgia, and the guest list Prince Phillip's Funeral. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza open up with a conversation with Cynthia Thomas about her musical gig at Woody's. They also converse with Artistic Director Ron Celona on upcoming programming at CV Rep. News during this hour includes: Arclight and Pacific Theaters closing down, and Dick Van Dyke doing some really great, you won't want to miss the story! 

Bonnie Gilgallon and her friend, singer Siobhan Veladre, talk about their new cabaret show. Performer Ruta Lee comes on to talk about her new book, Consider Your Ass Kissed, detailing her extraordinary career. Brayan Mendoza also shares the latest TikTok vaccine trend, and a touching story about a little boy saving his sister, with the help of John Cena.  

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza welcome YGSLRHSTFUT's Lead Vocalist Chella Coleman to talk about using her music as activism, her band, and Lil Nas X. Author Fern Field talks about her work in the film/tv industry and her wide array of literary work. Other news tackled in this hour: DMX, SNL writer Anne Beatts, Writer Beverly Cleary, and Midwin Charles.

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza begin the show by honoring actors Jessica Walters, George Segal and author Larry McMurty. They also talk about Bernadette Peters' role as Rita the Cat in Animaniacs. Guest Doug Graham comes on to talk about his event at Frankie's Back Room, and his career. 

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza welcome two guests this episode. Jerome Elliot comes to the show to talk about his monologue series, and his career. Saxophonist Shelley Yeolin, saxophonist talks about an upcoming event. News tackled in this hour: Oscars get backlash for "no Zoom" speeches, Disney premiering Black Widow on their service for a fee, and Ken Jeong raising money for Atlanta shooting families.  

In this week's second hour, Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza interview best-selling author Tod Goldberg about his latest book, and the art of writing. Later iHub Radio host Jeff Hocker calls in to talk about the upcoming Easter fundraising event for the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus. Entertainment news in this hour includes Daniel Franzese being fired from a show for being gay, and Katie Leung breaking her silence on bullying during her Harry Potter days.

This week on The Culture Corner, co-hosts Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open the show with a discussion of the Academy Awards, the impact of COVID, and the milestones. Later on, Mikael Healey will join them to talk about his musical influences and his performing career. Other entertainment news items include Stacey Dash's return to acting, and the Coachella Music & Arts Festival moving to 2022. 

Former Duchess Meghan Markel and Prince Harry of Sussex gave the most compelling interview of the year. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza have a lot to say. Donna Greene, Professor of Children's Literature at College of the Desert comes by to discuss the importance of children's literacy, and offers insight on the Dr. Seuss debacle. Bonnie and Brayan also featuring the debut of musician Sandra Booker's latest single. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Robbie Wayne, Artistic Director of the Desert Rose Playhouse, about the state of the theater, and its upcoming 2021 season. Cheryl Scarlett, Fundraising director of the Jewish Family Service of the Desert comes by to talk about the upcoming The Clergy Boys musical event. Believe it or not, Space Jam 2 is the most controversial movie of the year, and Brayan explains why.  

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Krystofer Do about his musical directorial debut. Throughout this episode, they will talk about the misunderstanding behind Dr. Seuss and the unpublished six books, and the disclaimers on DisneyPlus. Also, we talk about Lady Gaga's dogs! 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with Sandra Booker about her single coming out and with Mikole Karr about his upcoming musical event. In the news segments, Bonnie and Brayan talk about Mara Wilson's op-ed about feeling sexualized as a child, and Eddie Murphy's revelations about Coming To America. 

Brayan Mendoza and Bonnie Gilgallon open up with the breaking news story of Lady Gaga's dognapping and her dog walker being shot. Luca Arias from Frankie's Italian Bakery joins the conversation and talks about upcoming streaming events. Other topics in this episode: Allen Vs Farrow documentary, and the Paramount+ streaming service. 

Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite therapist Michelle Ogle to talk about COVID fatigue. Drag Performer Anita Rose talks "The Bitchiest Brunch in Town" at Oscars and the power of drag. Other topics in this episode: Meek Mill's controversial Bryant lyric, New York Theaters opening back up, and Daft Punk retiring. 

Kathy Humphrey from Bloom in the Desert joins Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza in talking about the church's latest events that will celebrate famed local singer Keisha D. Later on, tehy provide updates on television, including Wanda/Visions' popularity. Finally, an impromptu conversation about schools and music programs is also had on this episode. 

This week's show opens up with an honest conversation about Brittney Spears, and the way society has treated celebrities like her. Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza invite Steve Baker, President of the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus to discuss upcoming events. Michael Hopson, BLM organizer comes on to discuss the importance of black representation in media, and empathy towards Tessica Brown.

Chuck Yates of Coyote Stageworks visits Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza, and talks about his struggles (and inspirations) during the ongoing Pandemic. News Topics: The Weekend's strange Super Bowl halftime show, Gina Carano's firing from Disney, and Michelle Obama has a new TV show!

Singer/Author Jason Hull talks about his literary career, and newest book with Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza. Keyboardist/Artist/Author Andy Cahan comes on to discuss his extensive music career. News Topics: The Buffy Cast speak out against Joss Whedon, and updates on the #FreeBritney movement.

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza are thrilled to have new leadership in America and talk about a political cultural event: the Inauguration. Focusing on the inspiring poem by Amanda Gorman, and Lady Gaga's patriotic rendition of the National Anthem. Then, they talk with Michael Shaw of Dezart Performs about Mental Amusements, a "virtual carnival for the mind", and the state of theatre during this stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic. They also talk about a decline of LGBT representation on television. Then, pay tribute to Siegfried Firschbacher and Larry King. 

Hosts Bonnie Gilgallon and Brayan Mendoza chat with Keynote Speaker/Author/Life Coach Carolyn Gross on dealing with a crisis, and how to manage one's trauma during a difficult time. Then the conversation turns to updates to your favorite shows, including Sex and the City reboot, and Law and Order: SVU hiring unemployed Broadway performers. Singer/Entertainer/Foreign Language Dub Supervisor Charles Herrera talks about his latest event, Brighter Day, a benefit for the Desert Ensemble Theatre Company's Internship and Scholarship Program. And, Bonnie and Brayan pay special tribute to two inspiring women, Cloris Leachman and Cicely Tyson, who sadly left us this past week.

Hosts Bonnie Gigallon and Brayan Mendoza talk with filmmakers Alexandra Kotcheff, and Hannah Leder on their latest film The Planters. A wonderful and eccentric motion picture. Dori and Rupert Smith of Script 2 Screen 2 Stage come by to discuss their latest virtual performances on Zoom. There are also news discussions as always, with a focus on the Emmys, a "tone deaf" apology from Ellen DeGenres to her crew, along with Disney delaying films due to COVID 19.