My heart sank when I glanced at Sunday’s Desert Sun obituaries and saw the face and name of a man you are likely familiar with if you listen to KGAY.
Ray Smythe (S-M-Y-T-H-E as we spelled it out on the air) brought his books about dealing with grief to a worldwide audience. The self-published author wrote of the heartache of losing his partner, Dr. Steve Oliver, of 49 years. So adamant that others deal positively with loss, he advertised his books on KGAY over the past few years and was quite successful.
Ray would come into our studios to record commercials or would just send me an uplifting note. He always had his signature “business-sized cards” with dozens of quips and quotes printed to share with me and our staff. Just Thursday night, I gave one to John Taylor as a part of his birthday gift. Ray’s musing came from a variety of sources such as Joan Rivers, Betty White and Will Rogers. I have so many of them stashed at home and work that they just show up at opportune times. It gives me pause — and usually a smile — to read the short sayings that he hand selected.
Smythe also wrote for The Desert Sun after a long career as an educator on the west coast. He must have been quite the role model, as he was awarded Teacher of the Year honors many times over. According to the Sun’s obituary, a Celebration of Life is planned for the Fall. I’ll be there, grateful for a gay man who impacted the lives of not only the students he taught, but also those in our community and around the world.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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MON: St. Patrick’s Day
Celebrate the luck of the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day with lively festivities, green-themed drinks, and a night of fun! Whether you’re looking to raise a pint of Guinness, enjoy festive cocktails, or just soak in the party atmosphere, our Gay Desert Guide Bars/Nightlife Channel has you covered. Check out the Happy Hour and Bar Events calendar to find all the best spots and happenings across the desert to make your St. Patrick’s Day unforgettable. Cheers to a shamrockin’ good time! 🍀
MON-WED: Fashion Week El Paseo Continues
The West Coast’s largest fashion week runs through Wednesday, March 19 at The Gardens on El Paseo in Palm Desert. This world-class event offers an inspiring and immersive fashion experience featuring cocktail receptions, pop-up shops, celebrity meet-and-greets, and more. Highlights of the remaining days include: Running Wild on El Paseo on Monday, a showcase by Istituto Marangoni Miami on Tuesday, and a special presentation by Saks Fifth Avenue on Wednesday. Attendees can indulge their inner fashionista celebrating the newest collections from the industry’s most prominent influencers and innovators. Get tickets
TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City
On Tuesday, March 18, from 5:30–7:30 pm, join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater for an evening of live music by Radio Ready and enjoy delicious offerings from TKB Food Truck. This free weekly event is a wonderful way to connect with the community, savor great food, and experience local talent in a beautiful outdoor setting. More info
The Provocative History of Political Cartoons in America
Join the Palm Springs Public Library and the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation for “Laughing Out Loud: The Provocative History of Political Cartoons in America” on Tuesday, March 18 from 6–7:30 pm, in the library’s Learning Center. Presented by award-winning editorial cartoonist Mike Thompson, this free program explores the evolution of political cartoons from Ben Franklin to Donald Trump. More info
WED: The Center Women’s Social
Don’t miss The Center Women’s Social at The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows on Wednesday, March 19, from 5:30–7 pm. This monthly event, held every 3rd Wednesday, is the perfect opportunity to make meaningful connections, build friendships, and enjoy a fun evening with like-minded women. Come and join the community for a delightful and engaging social gathering! More info
WED: Gregory Douglass LIVE
Gregory Douglass performs live at Revolution Stage Company on Wednesday, March 19, from 7–9 pm. Known for his emotional and evocative pop sound, Gregory Douglass’ performances captivate fans of Rufus Wainwright, Tori Amos, and Jeff Buckley. This concert promises an intimate evening of soul-stirring and refreshingly honest music. Get tickets
WED: Marc Antonelli
Experience the exceptional talent of Marc Antonelli as part of the Desert Candlelight Concert Series at the Mary Pickford Theatre on Wednesday, March 19 at 7 pm. Renowned for blending classical opera with a contemporary twist, Antonelli’s performance promises a captivating fusion of timeless arias and bold innovation. With his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, he redefines opera, creating an unforgettable evening that honors tradition while embracing modern artistry. Get tickets
THU: Harmony for Everyone
Enjoy an evening of delightful a cappella harmony at the Harmony for Everyone Show with the Coachella Valley Barbershop Chorus on Thursday, March 20 from 6:30–8 pm. This free event features performances by the full chorus, along with special appearances by The Cactus Crooners Quartet and The Lady and the Tramps Quartet, offering a mix of new and classic favorites sung in beautiful 4-part harmony. More info
STARTS THU: Palm Desert Food & Wine
Indulge in a spectacular culinary experience at Palm Desert Food & Wine, from Thursday, March 20–Sunday, March 23, in the picturesque El Paseo shopping district. This four-day event, produced by Palm Springs Life magazine, features a diverse selection of mouth-watering eats, premium wines, hands-on cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, and more. Highlights include a James Beard Gourmet Four-Course Luncheon, grand tastings of over 60 wines, craft brews, IPAs, and draught ciders, and exclusive events like a Cheese Masterclass with Afrim Pristine and a Celebrity Chef Date Farm Tour. Enjoy some of the most delicious offerings in the Coachella Valley! Get tickets
Indulge in the Food & Wine festival’s Saturday Grand Tastings on Saturday, March 22, from 11 am–3 pm at The Gardens on El Paseo on the upper-level parking deck. This event features delectable bites from a diverse range of restaurants, celebrity chef demonstrations, and unlimited samples of premium wines, beers, and spirits. Participants can interact with vintners and chefs to discuss their offerings. The chef demonstration schedule includes culinary stars such as Curtis Stone, Aarti Sequeria, and Brooke Williamson, offering unique and exciting demos throughout the day. Get tickets
This Week at the McCallum
This week at the McCallum Theatre brings a diverse lineup of performances starting with Ballet Hispánico on Monday, March 17 at 7 pm, celebrating Latino culture through innovative dance. On Wednesday, March 19 at 7 pm, enjoy Material Girls, a high-energy tribute to pop icons like Adele, Lady Gaga, Madonna, and Cher. On Friday, March 21 at 8 pm, experience Mandy Patinkin in Concert – Being Alive, showcasing Mandy Patinkin’s favorite Broadway and classic American tunes. On Saturday, March 22 at 7:30 pm, the Israel Philharmonic with Lahav Shani performs symphonies by Mendelssohn and Tchaikovsky. The week concludes on Sunday, March 23 at 3 pm with The 69th Edition of It’s Magic!, a dazzling all new revue featuring award-winning magicians. Get tickets
THU: Home Again – A Tribute to the Music of Carole King
Experience the magic of Carole King’s timeless music with Home Again – A Tribute to the Music of Carole King at the McCallum Theatre on Thursday, March 20 at 8 pm. This captivating performance, featuring Deb De Lucca, her band, and The Desert Symphony, celebrates Carole King’s extraordinary legacy. From her iconic hits to the songs she wrote for artists like The Shirelles and The Monkees, this tribute offers a beautiful journey through her expansive and influential repertoire. Get tickets
ALL WEEK: 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
THEATRE
God of Carnage
Desert Ensemble Theatre Company presents God of Carnage from March 14–23 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. A playground altercation between two boys brings together their four parents for a meeting to resolve the matter. As the meeting progresses, and the rum flows, tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving the couples with more than just their liberal principles in tatters. Get tickets
How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Revolution Stage Company presents How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying from March 12–29. Winner of Tony and Pulitzer Prizes, this sharp and witty production takes you on a comedic journey through the corporate world, showcasing the art of playing the game with charm and humor. Get tickets
Jesus Christ Superstar
CVRep presents the iconic rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar from March 5–23. This semi-immersive version of the classic 1970s musical tells the story of the struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, followers, and the Roman Empire, entirely through song. Audiences will experience well-known numbers such as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Gethsemane” in a new and innovative way. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “You can see and feel the emotional depth and raw energy in every performance, bringing the characters to life in a way that is both heartfelt and unforgettable.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Tootsie the Musical
Desert Theatreworks presents Tootsie the Musical from March 7–30 at the Indio Performing Arts Center. This laugh-out-loud extravaganza, inspired by the Academy Award-winning film starring Dustin Hoffman, is a heartfelt love letter to the stage. Meet Michael Dorsey, a talented actor known for job-hopping. When faced with a career crisis, Michael transforms into the fabulous actress Dorothy Michaels. Suddenly, he embarks on a wild Broadway adventure, winning hearts, stealing scenes, and catching feelings for his leading lady, Julie. Michael discovers that juggling dual identities is no easy feat. Get tickets
Honky Tonk Angels
Desert Theatreworks presents Honky Tonk Angels, a musical extravaganza, playing through 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
Victor/Victoria
Palm Canyon Theatre presents their production of Victor/Victoria, running from March 14–April 6. Victoria Grant finds stardom by masquerading as “Count Victor Grazinski,” a man performing as a female impersonator. When macho businessman King Marchan develops feelings for “Victor,” and Victoria reciprocates, it sparks a whirlwind of complications. Get tickets
The Real Black Swann
Experience the captivating performance of The Real Black Swann at Revolution Stage Company on Saturday, March 22, from 7:30–9:00 pm. Les Kurkendaal-Barrett brings to life the incredible true story of William Dorsey Swann, a former slave who became the Queen of Drag in the late 1800s. Swann bravely fought against racism and homophobia, earning his place in history as the first known gay activist. Get tickets
Black Butterfly, Jaguar Girl, Piñata Woman, and Other Superhero Girls, Like Me
Experience the powerful story of resilience and identity with Green Room Theatre Company Coachella Valley’s production of Black Butterfly, Jaguar Girl, Piñata Woman, and Other Superhero Girls, Like Me on Friday, March 21 at 6pm, and Saturday, March 22 at 1 pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Indio. Directed by David Catanzarite and Rocio Muñoz, this bilingual play by award-winning playwright Luis Alfaro explores the lives of four teen girls navigating adolescence in East Los Angeles. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, March 18
Walk of the Stars – Mary Bono | 2 pm Downtown Palm Springs
Tupperware Time Warp w/Ethylina Canne | 7–8:30 pm at Desert Theatreworks
Movies in the Park: Hook | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Downtown Park
Wednesday, March 19
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Program | 6–7:30 pm at Mizell Center
Thursday, March 20
Wine & Design | 5:30–7:30 pm at Modern Home2 Design Showroom
VillageFest Street Fair | 6–10 pm Downtown Palm Springs
David Maiocco as Liberace | 8 pm at Piazza de Liberace
Friday, March 21
Thermal Club INDYCAR Grand Prix | Fri-Sat-Sun at the Thermal Club
Palm Springs Drone Fest | Fri-Sat-Sun at Palm Springs High School
Wrangler Professional Bull Riders: Unleash the Beast | Fri-Sat-Sun at Acrisure Arena
An Evening with Caroline Rhea | 7 pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
Dionne Warwick | 8 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino
Saturday, March 22
Rancho Mirage Artists Tour | 10 am–4 pm at Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory
The Dirty Show 3.0 with Skyler Gentry | 7–8:30 pm at Dietlart Gallery
Country Dance Saturdays: Beginner Waltz with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
