Gay Desert Guide: Week of Apr 21, 2025

Conclave, the movie, will play out in real life soon following the death of Pope Francis overnight in Rome. While the Catholic church has been decried for its policies over the centuries, Pope Francis had more moderate views on the LGBTQ people in the church.

It was early in his appointment on an in-flight press conference that first laid out his thoughts. A reporter questioned him about gay priests, and the newly appointed pope quipped: “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?”

He was no fan of our current president, and gets credit for that, too. Last July, according to The New York Post, he took on right wing governments as a whole and told believers: Democracy is not in good health in the world today.” He decried “ideological temptations and populists,” saying, “Ideologies are seductive. Some people compare them to the Pied Piper of Hamelin: they seduce but lead you to deny yourself.”

According to the Post, “He encouraged outreach to LGBTQ Catholics, welcomed transgender sex workers to the Vatican, and approved a document saying priests could “bless” — but not marry — same-sex couples. Intense backlash from the blessing document forced the Church to issue two “clarifications” in the 14 days after its release that dramatically restricted the practice.”

Give him credit for pushing the envelope. But like the political climate in the world today, I have to wonder if the pendulum will swing in the opposite direction when the smoke rises from the chimney of the next Conclave.

Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs

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MON: Palm Springs International Piano Competition FINALS

The Grand Concerto Finals of the Palm Springs International Piano Competition (Junior Division) will take place on Monday, April 21 at 6 pm at the McCallum Theatre, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the top young pianists. Competing for the prestigious $10,000 Gold Medal prize, these finalists will deliver riveting performances in pursuit of career-defining opportunities, including a Yamaha Artist Services New York recording and appearances through 2025–27. Witness the culmination of this remarkable competition!. Get tickets

MON: Behind the Curtain: Untold Stories from Canada’s Team Broadway

After a sold-out show in November, Behind the Curtain: Untold Stories from Canada’s Team Broadway returns to the Revolution Stage Company on Monday, April 21 at 7 pm. This critically acclaimed musical cabaret features Broadway alumni Craig Ramsay and Catherine Wreford, winners of The Amazing Race Canada, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, celebrity encounters, and favorite Broadway tunes, packed with high notes and heartfelt moments. Get tickets

WED: HIV in an Aging Population

Aging HIV Population Alex del Rosario MD

Join Eisenhower Health’s virtual lecture, HIV in an Aging Population, on Wednesday, April 23 from 4:30–5:30 pm via Zoom. Led by Alex del Rosario, MD, this informative session will explore how HIV impacts the top ten leading causes of death in the United States, with a focus on long-term side effects for adults aged 50 and older. More info

WED: April Center Social at Hunters

Join the April Center Social on Wednesday, April 23 from 5:30–7 pm at Hunters Nightclub in the Arenas District. Held at a different location on every 4th Wednesday of the month, this event offers a welcoming space for connection, friendship, and a delightful happy hour. Don’t miss the chance to unwind and mingle with the community! More info

OPENS WED: Other Desert Cities

Experience the gripping drama of Other Desert Cities, presented by CVRep from April 23–May 4. Set in a Palm Springs manor, this Pulitzer Prize finalist unravels a family’s devastating secret when a young woman arrives with her explosive memoir. With stinging wit and sharp insight, this acclaimed production promises to captivate audiences. Don’t miss this poignant story brought to life in the heart of Palm Springs. Get tickets

THU: Dining Out for Life

On Thursday, April 24, join the fight to end HIV by participating in Dining Out For Life®, an annual fundraising event benefiting DAP Health. Local restaurants, bars, and coffee shops will generously donate a portion of their sales to support this important mission. Palm Springs, despite being the smallest participating city, has ranked second in overall fundraising, thanks to the dedication of local businesses and community members. Make a difference by dining out and supporting this powerful initiative that showcases the strength and unity of our community. Visit the event listing for participating locations and details. More info

THU–SUN: Disney Pride in Concert with PSGMC

Experience the magic of Disney Pride in Concert, presented by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus (PSGMC) at the Annenberg Theater from Thursday–Sunday, April 24–27. Celebrate LGBTQ+ life, love, family, and pride through timeless Disney songs, curated video clips, and heartfelt stories from the performers. Featuring classics from Peter Pan and Mary Poppins, to modern hits from Coco and Zootopia, this enchanting show is suitable for all ages and brimming with pixie dust. PSGMC is among a select few choruses nationwide to bring this special performance to life. Get tickets

FRI: Palm Springs Walk of the Stars Honors Elinor Harriot

On Friday, April 25 at 11 am, the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars will honor Elinor Harriot for her remarkable career as a Broadway and radio star. Best known for her role on The Amos ‘n’ Andy Show, which was broadcast from the iconic El Mirador Hotel Tower starting in 1935, Harriot’s contributions to entertainment have left a lasting legacy. Join this special ceremony at Palm Canyon Drive and E. Tahquitz Canyon Way in Downtown Palm Springs. More info

Art Walk at the Riviera Resort

Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at the Riviera Resort & Spa’s Art Walk on Friday, April 25 from 6:30–9:30 pm. This free event showcases the works of talented local artists, from contemporary abstracts to stunning desert landscapes, in the lobby and Starlite Lounge. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, live music, and the chance to meet the artists while exploring Palm Springs’ creative spirit. More info

Desert X

DX25 Jose Davila Act of Being Together - Lance Gerber — “The Act of Being Together” by Jose Dávila – PHOTOGRAPHY BY LANCE GERBER, COURTESY DESERT X

We should have great weather again this weekend to explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley, on display now through May 11. This outdoor art exhibition features installations across several valley cities that reflect on the desert’s deep time evolutions and intertwine ancestral wisdom with contemporary visions. Check out descriptions of all the pieces and photos from the installations [here]. The Desert X 2025 Hub is hosted at the Thompson Palm Springs. Hub visitors can chat with knowledgeable volunteers, browse merchandise, and enjoy a meal or cocktail at Lola Rose before heading to the exhibition. Printed programs and field guides will be available for pickup at the Hub during open hours or at the front desk throughout the exhibition. Hub hours are Fridays from 2–5 pm and Saturday & Sunday from 10 am–5 pm. More info

THEATRE

Falsettos

Experience the powerful and poignant musical drama Falsettos, presented by Dezart Performs from April 18–27. This Tony Award-winning masterpiece by William Finn and James Lapine explores the complexities of love, family, and relationships with humor and heartache. Following Marvin as he navigates life after leaving his wife and son for his lover Whizzer, the story delves into themes of growth, acceptance, and resilience, set against the backdrop of baseball, bar mitzvahs, and the AIDS crisis. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Ultimately, Falsettos is a masterclass, balancing hilarity with heartbreak while offering a deeply human story filled with flawed but lovable characters.” Read his review and Get tickets

Beyond Therapy

Join Desert Ensemble Theatre for Beyond Therapy, running April 18–27. This witty 1981 comedy follows Bruce and Prudence, two neurotic urbanites navigating the chaos of modern romance with the dubious guidance of their eccentric therapists. Packed with unexpected twists and laugh-out-loud surprises, Christopher Durang’s play offers a hilariously unpredictable exploration of love and sanity.Gay Desert Guide theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “If you enjoy sharp wit, eccentric characters, and the delightful chaos of human relationships, this play is a must-see.” Read his review and Get tickets