A bit dog-eared and slightly faded, I have a memento of a Pride mixer from 2018 when D.E.I. was a thing. US bank was holding a DBA mixer at its Palm Springs branch, and had a series of wooden mini clipboards with various quotes that we could take with us.
“Our lives begin and end the day we become silent about things that matter” reads the quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I’ve had this on display in my various offices since then – but now it takes on urgent and new meaning as we navigate troubled waters.
Saturday’s “Hands Off!” protests marked the largest day of public opposition to Trump (and Musk) during his second term. Our Coachella Valley citizens showed up by the thousands with a kick off by KGAY’s John Taylor at the protest march at Palm Springs City Hall.
But wait, there’s more!
The grassroots organization 50501 has announced plans for nationwide protests on April 19th. The group is mobilizing resistance in all 50 states, demanding a stand against what they describe as a creeping fascist takeover.
Social media platforms are buzzing with calls for participation, with 50501 emphasizing the critical mass needed for real change. They’ve set a target of 3.5% of the US population – over 11 million people.
The call for 3.5% participation draws from research by Erica Chenoweth, which indicates that nonviolent movements reaching this threshold have historically been highly effective. Historian and “On Tyranny” author Timothy Snyder, in his warnings against authoritarianism, has emphasized the importance of such mass mobilization in defending democratic institutions
The April 19th protests are being framed as a direct response to the Trump administration’s “hostile government takeover.” Organizers are urging progressives, activists, and all those concerned about the future of democracy to join the nationwide demonstrations, signaling a potential turning point in the struggle against Trump’s agenda.
We will not be silent, Dr. King. Thank you for the reminder!
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAY1065 and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you may reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis
TUE/THU/SAT: Broadway’s Brightest Stars at the McCallum
The Broadway’s Brightest Stars series at the McCallum Theatre brings an extraordinary lineup of talent to Palm Desert. On Tuesday, April 8 from 7–9 pm, Renée Elise Goldsberry, celebrated for her Tony-winning performance as Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton, takes the stage. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic acting, Goldsberry promises an evening highlighting her extensive career in Broadway hits like Rent and The Lion King, as well as her television and film achievements. Get tickets
On Thursday, April 10 from 7–9 pm, Brian Stokes Mitchell, hailed by The New York Times as “the last leading man,” enchants audiences with his stunning vocal versatility, drawing on his Broadway success and a career that spans music genres and prestigious venues [Get tickets]. Finally, on Saturday, April 12 from 8–10 pm, Leslie Odom, Jr., best known for his Tony- and Grammy-winning role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton, delivers a remarkable performance featuring his signature blend of Broadway classics and original music. Get tickets
Also this week at the McCallum Theatre: On Monday, April 7 at 7 pm, Yo-Yo Ma brings a profound evening of music and reflection, exploring the meaning of art, human nature, and hope through his iconic repertoire. Then, on Friday, April 11 at 8 pm, Broadway and recording star Linda Eder graces the stage with her extraordinary vocal versatility, seamlessly moving through Broadway, standards, jazz, and more in a captivating one-night-only concert. Get tickets
TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City
On Tuesday, April 8, from 5:30–7:30 pm, join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater for an evening of music from Leanna & Miguel on Congas with food from Nick’s Bistro. This free weekly event is a wonderful way to connect with the community, savor great food and music in a beautiful outdoor setting. More info
WED: KGAY Night with the Firebirds
Join the excitement of KGAY Night with the Firebirds on Wednesday, April 9 from 7–9 pm at Acrisure Arena as the Coachella Valley Firebirds face off against the San Jose Barracuda! Enjoy the lively atmosphere with your favorite KGAY personalities and fans, plus $5 beer specials at select locations. From thrilling ice action to surprises like Zamboni rides and puck drops, this promises to be a night of fun and community spirit. Get tickets
FRI: Joslyn in Bloom
Celebrate style and community at the Joslyn Center’s 15th Annual Joslyn in Bloom Fashion Show Luncheon on Friday, April 11 from 11 am–2 pm at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage. Honoring Desert Oasis Healthcare with the Merritt & Penny Joslyn Award, this event supports vital programs for older adults in the Coachella Valley. Enjoy a sparkling wine reception, silent auction, a delightful luncheon, and a stunning fashion show featuring designs curated by Susan Stein. Embrace the “Garden of Earthly Delights” theme in your best garden party attire. Get tickets
FRI: Cocktails on the Page at Piazza di Liberace
Step back in time at Cocktails on the Page on Friday, April 11 from 5–7 pm at the historic Piazza di Liberace. Hosted by the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation, this elegant event features cocktails, light appetizers, and a special appearance by author Rufi Thorpe, who will discuss her latest novel, Margo’s Got Money Troubles. Each guest receives a copy of the book, which can be autographed at the event. Get tickets
FRI: Agua Caliente Celebrates 30 Years with Pat Benatar + Neil Giraldo
Agua Caliente Casinos celebrates 30 years of exceptional gaming in the Coachella Valley with year-round festivities, including world-class entertainment, exciting giveaways, and engaging promotions. Enjoy performances across venues like The Show in Rancho Mirage, the Cascade Lounge in Palm Springs, and the Agave Caliente Terraza in Cathedral City. Highlights include Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo live on Friday, April 11 at 8 pm in the outdoor space at Agua Caliente Palm Springs. With multi-platinum albums, Grammy wins, and iconic hits like “Love Is a Battlefield,” “We Belong,” and “Invincible” this legendary duo promises an electrifying night. Get tickets
FRI: The AIDS Quilt Songbook
The CSUSB Opera Theatre will present The AIDS Quilt Songbook at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus on Friday, April 11 from 7–9 pm. This poignant production honors lives impacted by AIDS, weaving songs and poems that confront stigma while celebrating resilience and remembrance. Directed by Stacey Fraser with music direction by Alastair Edmonstone, the performance features newly composed works, choreography, and guest artists. Get tickets
THEATRE
The Diary of Anne Frank
Desert Theatreworks presents a powerful new adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank at the Blackbox Theater, running April 4–13. This production weaves survivor accounts with excerpts from Anne Frank’s diary, presenting a modern, emotionally charged portrayal of the Nazi era. Set in a hidden attic where eight individuals seek refuge, this adaptation captures their daily struggles and celebrates Anne’s enduring message of resilience and hope. Get tickets
The Cake
Join The Bent Theatre Company for their production of The Cake from April 4–12, at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This heartfelt and timely dramatic comedy, written by Tony-nominated playwright Bekah Brunstetter and directed by Kudra Wagner, tells the story of Della, a conservative North Carolina baker, who faces a moral dilemma when Jen, someone she loves like a daughter, asks her to bake a cake for her lesbian wedding. Get tickets
Hairspray
Desert Theatricals presents Hairspray at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre from Friday, April 11–Sunday, April 13. This eight-time Tony Award-winning musical is packed with laughter, romance, and catchy tunes, following Tracy Turnblad’s journey from an outcast teen to a star on the “Corny Collins Show” in 1962 Baltimore. With a mission to win hearts, challenge norms, and integrate a TV network, Tracy’s story is a delightful celebration of change, resilience, and rhythm. Get tickets
Desert X
Explore the fifth edition of Desert X in the Coachella Valley now through May 11. This outdoor art exhibition delves into the nonlinear narratives of time, with 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
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, April 8
Screening of October 8 | 7 pm at the Tolerance Education Center
Thursday, April 10
VillageFest | 6–10 pm in Downtown Palm Springs
The Totally Ridiculous Gameshow | 7 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Friday, April 11
Food Truck Fridays | 5–10 pm in Downtown Indio
Saturday, April 12
Parkinson’s Awareness Month Wellness Expo | 10 am–12:30 pm at Eisenhower Medical Center
Mojave Sun Coachella pre-game | 11 am–3 pm at Royal Sun Palm Springs
Father and Son – Piolo Pascual and Inigo Pascual | 7 pm at Palm Springs Convention Center
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Two Step with Lise Baadh | 7 pm at Step by Step
Comedian Ron White | 8 pm at The Show
Coachella Valley Firebirds v. Bakersfield Condors | 6 pm at Acrisure Arena
Sunday, April 13
Coachella Essentials Pop-Up Shop | 11 am–4 pm at JW Marriott Desert Springs
40th Anniversary Celebration of The Times of Harvey Milk (SOLD OUT) | 2 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
