Gay Desert Guide: Week of Mar 3, 2025

Lesbians have a history of mothering that is built into their DNA. During the AIDS crisis, many brought comfort, care and compassion to gay men who were dying by the thousands.

Their care for each other is exemplified in a grassroots non-profit that I’ve watched sprout and blossom over my time in the Coachella Valley.

The L-Fund held its annual dinner and dance over the weekend and we at K-Gay Desert Guide were proud to be media sponsors to support their work. I remember at its infancy when Shann Carr would tell me about this group who would pony up money when there was a need. None were wealthy women of means – just caring individuals helping their own.

As it grew, The L-Fund morphed into a full 501(c)3 and got its wings. The work that it does was highlighted on storyboards around the room. I was moved by reading the recipients’ stories:

The L-Fund paid a $1,024.64 medical bill balance that insurance did not cover and recipient faced a collection agency.

The L-Fund paid $2,000 towards a recipient’s rent after she had to flee a domestic violence situation.

The L-Fund paid $2,395 towards the cost of a recipient’s urgent and necessary dental work.

Tuesday is Coachella Valley Giving Day when hundreds of non-profits benefit from a concerted giving effort. We have the details below. While L-Fund is currently not among the recipients, any gift to any non-profit helps those in need like The L-Fund is doing on a regular basis.

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

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TUE: John Waters: The Naked Truth

Living Out welcomes legendary filmmaker, author, and cultural icon John Waters—affectionately known as the Pope of Trash—to Palm Springs for a special performance of “The Naked Truth” on Tuesday, March 4, from 4:30–6:30 pm. Known for his irreverent humor and boundary-pushing films like Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, and Serial Mom, Waters will deliver an unfiltered and entertaining lawn performance, sharing his sharp-witted takes on art, film, politics, and pop culture. Following the show, attendees can dine at the on-site restaurant, Alice B., operated by celebrity chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, or visit the bar for seasonal bites, classic cocktails, or a glass of wine. Get tickets

TUE: Coachella Valley Giving Day

Get ready for Coachella Valley Giving Day on Tuesday, March 4! This 24-hour online giving event unites nine cities, hundreds of nonprofits, and thousands of generous residents and businesses to create lasting change in the Coachella Valley. Presented by the Desert Community Foundation, Coachella Valley Giving Day amplifies the impact of local nonprofits by raising critical funds, winning cash prizes, and garnering positive awareness for the causes that matter most to the community. Visit their website and use the search tool to find and support the causes that matter to you: cvgivingday.org

MON/TUE: Desert Smash 2025

The 2nd Annual Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge is Monday, March 3, from 1–5 pm at the La Quinta Resort & Club Tennis Stadium. Hosted by Katy Perry, this fun-filled afternoon features DJ sets, a “Desert Smash Village” of brands and sponsors, fun hosted bars, and a live recording of the “Good Trouble” podcast by Nick Kyrgios with a celebrity guest. Watch celebrities like Naomi Osaka, Jason Derulo, and Sam Asghari, along with pro pickleball players, compete for a great cause. Proceeds benefit the WTA Foundation’s Global Women’s Health Fund in support of UNICEF. Tuesday, March 4 is the Celebrity Tennis Charity Event, hosted by P!NK. Celebrities and professional tennis players confirmed to participate include: Lance Bass, LeAnn Rimes, Pete Wentz, Alexander Zverev, Aryna Sabalenka, Boris Kodjoe, Eddie Cibrain, Elisha Cuthbert, Felix Auger Aliassime and more! For 20 years, Desert Smash has served as the unofficial kickoff to the BNP Paribas Open, raising millions of dollars for charitable causes. Get tickets

ALL WEEK: BNP Paribas Open

The 2025 BNP Paribas Open will take place from March 2–16 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. This prestigious tournament, also known as the Indian Wells Open, is the first combined ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 event of the year. Fans can look forward to seeing top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Belinda Bencic, and Americans like Coco Gauff, Sloane Stephens and Taylor Fritz competing on the iconic hard courts. Get tickets

TUE: Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City

On Tuesday, March 4, from 5:30–7:30 pm, join the Tastes & Sounds of Cathedral City at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater for a special LGBT+ Days Kick-Off event. Enjoy live music and delicious offerings from Uncle D’s Smokehouse BBQ & Grill while supporting the community. Don’t miss the fresh fruit Italian ice drinks from E & E Pel’s. This free weekly event is a fantastic way to connect with others, savor great food, and experience local talent in a beautiful outdoor setting. More info

TUE: Mitch Albom

The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series featuring renowned author Mitch Albom continues on Tuesday, March 4, at 5 pm at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. Albom, celebrated for his impactful storytelling and inspirational narratives, is the best-selling author of Tuesdays with Morrie, The Five People You Meet in Heaven, and more. His work explores themes of life, death, and human connection, resonating with millions worldwide. Get tickets

WED: Safety Blows “Sound Off” Presentation

Join Safety Blows for a “Sound Off” presentation on Wednesday, March 5, from 5–7 pm at the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. This free event offers valuable tips and tricks to improve your personal safety, presented by the Safety Blows team. The event will take place in Room 4, and space is limited, so be sure to sign up. More info

Join Safety Blows for a two-hour self-defense class at Chill Bar (back room) on Saturday, March 8, from 11 am–1 pm. Designed for all fitness levels and ages, this FREE class is limited to 30 participants, so please RSVP. Donations to Safety Blows are gladly accepted to support their efforts in keeping the community safe. Enjoy learning from instructor Tony Kawakami, an army veteran and distinguished martial artist. More info

WED: Rock the Park: ABBAFAB

Get ready to rock out with ABBAFAB, the #1 ABBA Tribute Band, at Rock the Park on Wednesday, March 5, from 7–8:30 pm. Held on the first Wednesday of each month, this event promises an evening filled with ABBA’s greatest hits and an unforgettable performance. Join in for a night of fun and nostalgia and celebrate the timeless music of ABBA! More info

WED: March Art Walk: KEE Gallery feat. Chris Burbach

On Wednesday, March 5, from 5:00–7:00 pm, the Backstreet Art District’s March Art Walk at Kee Gallery will showcase the vibrant works of well-known Palm Springs artist Chris Burbach, featuring his original celebrity paintings and creative takes on Palm Springs architecture. Attendees can also enjoy new creations by principal artists Kathleen Strukoff (aka Pop Up Palm Springs Painter), Ernesto Ramirez, and Erich Meager. More info

This Week at the McCallum

This week at the McCallum Theatre, don’t miss L.A. Theatre Works’ “A Room With A View” on Tuesday, March 4 at 7 pm, a romantic comedy with a multimedia experience featuring video of Italian and French art and countryside. On Thursday, March 6, enjoy The Doo Wop Project at 7 pm, showcasing fresh renditions of classic Doo Wop hits and contemporary favorites. From March 7-9, experience the Broadway musical Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, with performances on Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm and 7:30 pm, bringing the legendary R&B group’s story to life. Get tickets

THEATRE

Jesus Christ Superstar

CVRep presents the iconic rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar from March 5–16. 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. 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

Oliver!

Enjoy Lionel Bart’s classic musical, Oliver!, based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist, presented by Desert Theatricals at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheatre this Friday–Sunday, March 7–9. This Tony and Olivier Award-winning show brings the streets of Victorian England to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan, finds acceptance among petty thieves led by Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft he didn’t commit, Mr. Brownlow takes him in, but Fagin and the sinister Bill Sikes kidnap him back. Get tickets

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. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh describes Grand Concourse as a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful play about faith, brought to life by excellent direction and strong performances, particularly from Eliza Newman as Shelley. Read his full review and 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