To b(oycott), or not to b(oycott), that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles
And by opposing end them.
Yes, I co-opted Shakespeare’s Hamlet to ask whether we should be a part of Friday’s national spending blackout that is taking hold. All this is in response to the elimination of DEI initiatives at the federal level and the trickle-down impact it has has had on major companies like Target and Walmart. The goal is to boycott specific retailers and to refrain from spending any money at all with corporations. Exclusions are made for local businesses.
There are numerous Instagram posts by a group called The People’s Union and its founder, who goes by the Instagram handle “TheOneCalledJai” who started the movement. (The full scope of the effort is outlined on the website by the same handle.)
Last week I talked about protests and limited effect it has on bringing about long term change. This could change the equation. Organizers plan a longer dry spell against Amazon for March 7 – 14. I, for one, have paused by Amazon Prime and plan to cancel it at the renewal date. While I’ll miss the convenience of nearly instant gratification for products, I hope to find local alternatives and support corporations like Costco who have retained their DEI initiatives.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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TUE/WED: Six Years Old
Desert Theatreworks Artsworks presents Six Years Old by Daphne Silbiger on Tuesday & Wednesday, February 25 & 26 at 7:30 pm. The play follows the spirited six-year-old Adalaide, who navigates her frustrations with her babysitter Kim and her younger brother Dewey. This comic and poignant play, performed by a cast of senior actors, delves into the wild fantasies and serious desires of queer childhood, offering a reflective and touching portrayal of self-discovery. Get tickets
TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City
Join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City on Tuesday, February 25, from 5:30–7:30 pm at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater. Enjoy live music by The Dreamboats while savoring delicious offerings from El Reaper. This weekly event, running through April 8, features local artists and food vendors, providing a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and relish the culinary experiences and live entertainment—this event is free and open to all! More info
WED: The Center Social
Join The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert for The Center Social on Wednesday, February 26 from 5:30–7 pm at The Thompson hotel. This monthly mixer, held on the 4th Wednesday, offers an exciting opportunity to connect with the community, enjoy happy hour, and have some fun. Whether you’re looking to network, make new friends, or simply unwind, The Center Social is the perfect place to be. More info
WED: Harmony in Blue
“Harmony in Blue” is on Wednesday, February 26, from 7–8:30 pm, a stirring tribute to the legendary voices of Dinah Washington, Aretha Franklin, and Nancy Wilson. Presented by Sweet Baby J’ai, this special event marks the beginning of the 2025 Sunset Music Series and highlights the SMARTS Initiative, which supports community enrichment by gifting musical instruments to children. Featuring powerhouse vocalists Sweet Baby J’ai, Leah Stewart, and Sacha Boutros, backed by an exceptional band, “Harmony in Blue” celebrates the cultural impact and timeless music of these iconic women. Get tickets
THU: Black History Month Closing Celebration
The Black History Month Closing Celebration at the Palm Springs Art Museum takes place on Thursday, February 27 from 5:30–8 pm. This vibrant Block Party features music, games, food, performances, and BIPOC vendors, offering a joyous opportunity to celebrate Black culture and connect with the community. Come together to honor the lasting contributions of Black people to our history and society while enjoying an evening of entertainment and cultural enrichment. More info
THU-SUN: Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival runs through Sunday, March 2, (closed Mon/Tue/Wed) at the fairgrounds in Indio. This beloved festival, celebrating the end of the annual date harvest, draws over 250,000 guests each February. Now in its 77th year, the event focuses on community and delicious date-themed treats, with highlights including a dedicated date-tasting booth featuring ‘Date Flights’ and over forty unique date items from various food vendors. Be sure to try the unique offerings like date al pastor tacos, date-topped cinnamon rolls, and the crowd-favorite date beer-battered corn dogs! More info
FRI: Spending Blackout
On Friday, February 28, the Economic Blackout event calls for individuals to “turn it off” for one day to demonstrate who truly holds the power in the economy. Participants are encouraged not to make any purchases—online or in-store—from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, McDonald’s, or similar corporations. Instead, refrain from spending money on non-essential items such as fast food or gas. If you must buy essentials like food, medicine, or emergency supplies, aim to support small local businesses. Share the movement by talking about it and posting online to amplify the message. This collective action aims to disrupt the economy for just one day, sending a powerful statement. Learn more
FRI: An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell
New York’s Finest presents An Evening with John Cameron Mitchell on Friday, February 28 from 5:30 pm–9 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The Tony Award-winning star of stage and screen, known for his iconic work in Hedwig and the Angry Inch will be available for an artist meet and greet at 5:30 pm, followed by the show at 7 pm. Enjoy a hair-raising, hilarious romp of songs, stories, and characters, with performances by Mitchell and international cabaret star Amber Martin. The house band, led by Grammy Award-nominated music director Justin Craig, promises a magical, one-of-a-kind night with special guest surprises. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum
This week at the McCallum Theatre offers an exciting lineup of performances, starting with the tenThing Brass Ensemble on Monday at 7 pm. Formed by Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth, this all-female group brings a diverse repertoire to the stage. On Tuesday at 7 pm, Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond transports audiences through the vibrant world of Bollywood with dynamic music and dance. Wednesday and Thursday feature The Simon & Garfunkel Story, a critically acclaimed concert-style show performed at 7 pm on Wednesday and at 2 pm and 7 pm on Thursday. Friday at 8 pm, The Tenors deliver powerful harmonies and a blend of classical, pop, and rock music. Saturday at 8 pm, Michael Feinstein celebrates the legacy of Tony Bennett with the Carnegie Hall Big Band. The week concludes on Sunday at 7 pm with Lyle Lovett, showcasing his unique blend of country, swing, jazz, and more. Get tickets
THEATRE
Grand Concourse
Join Dezart Performs at the Pearl McManus Theater from February 28–March 9 for the profound and gripping play Grand Concourse, directed by Michael Shaw. This thought-provoking drama centers around Shelley, a dedicated nun running a Bronx soup kitchen with unsentimental efficiency. As Shelley grapples with feelings of futility, her world is upended by Emma, an idealistic yet troubled college dropout who volunteers at the kitchen. Emma’s reckless mix of generosity and self-involvement pushes Shelley to her breaking point, resulting in a poignant exploration of faith, purpose, and human connection. Get tickets
The Love Bite
Experience a delightful blend of satire and comedy with “The Love Bite: An Irreverent New Comedy by Luke Yankee on Sunday, March 2, from 11 am–2 pm at the Annenberg Theater. This enhanced stage reading begins with an awkward romantic encounter in a small Irish town, leading to a miraculous event when a resulting hickey bears a striking resemblance to Jesus Christ and has genuine healing powers. Adding to the excitement, the legendary Joyce Bulifant—best known for her role as Marie Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and appearances in Airplane!, The Happiest Millionaire, and numerous TV shows—will grace the stage for this special performance. Get tickets
The Odd Couple (Female Version)
Desert Theatreworks presents Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, reimagined to its female version, from February 14–March 2 at Blackbox Theater. Join Olive Madison and Florence Unger and their group of girlfriends for their weekly Trivial Pursuit night in Olive’s cluttered apartment. When freshly dumped Florence arrives, Olive invites her to move in, what could go wrong? Everything! Total opposites, Olive’s laid-back demeanor clashes with Florence’s neurotic cleanliness, putting their friendship to the test. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, from February 1–March 30 at the Black Box Theatre. This lively show features three fearless women from diverse backgrounds chasing their dreams to Nashville. With 30 timeless country hits like “Stand By Your Man,” “9 to 5,” and “Harper Valley PTA,” this toe-tapping journey celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the power of music. Get tickets
My Fair Lady
Palm Canyon Theatre presents My Fair Lady through March 7. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, My Fair Lady is that rare musical by which all others are measured, featuring one of musical theatre’s greatest scores. This classic tale shows us Eliza Doolittle, a low-class, Cockney, flower girl, transformed into an elegant lady when Professor Henry Higgins decides to teach her how to speak like a proper, upper-class woman. During their lessons, an unlikely friendship begins to flourish. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, February 25
The Simon Duo: Lunchtime Music Downtown | 11:30 am–12:30 pm at Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Wednesday, February 26
Palm Springs Poetry Club | 4–5 pm at Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Eisenhower Health Lecture: Bariatric Surgery | 5:30–7 pm on Zoom
The Patty Cakes Show | 7 pm at The Center for Spiritual Living, Palm Springs
Friday, February 28
Palm Springs Walk of Stars: Susie Coelho | 3:30 pm at 145 S. Palm Canyon Dr.
Perez Art District 4th Fridays ARTWALK | 4 pm at Perez Road, Cathedral City
Bear Union | 8 pm at Club 541
Saturday, March 1
Country Dance Saturdays: Do Si Do Line Dance Lesson with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
Murray Hill as Himself | 7:30 pm at Revolution Stage Company
Styx | 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage
Sunday, March 2
First-Ever “Jazz Girls Day” in Idyllwild | Idyllwild Arts Campus
Palm Springs Vintage Market | 7 am– 2 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
“Hollywood’s Biggest Night” Party | 3:30 pm at Trio
