Is it live or is it Memorex? Remember that advertising slogan? We of a certain age certainly do as “tape” recordings made it possible for recorded music to thrive and propagate to the masses. (Before a record got pressed, it was first recorded on tape. Then came cassettes and 8-tracks!)
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is generating controversy and commentary on the ever-entertaining “Gay Men of Palm Springs” Facebook group. It started with a negative post about Oscar’s using AI to generate advertising images. And down the rabbit hole we went.
The first comment harkened back to how resistant we can be to change – tongue-in-cheek: ‘you won’t catch me in one of those new-fangled automatic elevators! Death traps, I tell ya!’
And because the group is mostly older men, the comments flew back and forth about AI’s impact on society, boycotting businesses using AI or getting left behind if we don’t embrace the new technology.
Two important points came out of the debate: James D. wrote: “(But) technology is not inherently good or bad, it’s how we use it.” Simplistic, but true.
Matt Consola weighed in as a promoter and record label owner that some were being silly and short sighted. He opined, “AI has just become the new auto tune Buzz word. Where people use the word incorrectly. (sic)
AI is pretty much built into everything we use these days when it comes to any kind of artistic creation. It’s in our Photoshop and design programs, and it’s in our ProTools and logic music programs. And it’s all on how you use it.”
I was just given a demo of AI creating the radio commercials that you might hear on KGAY or KMEE. Fill in some blanks, choose a music theme, a voice – male or female – and out pops a 30 second ad perfectly recorded and ready to air. Right now I’m staying with real LGBTQ voices for our spots. But the day will come when it may be more expedient to use the new technology. I won’t resist just on principal.
A thoughtful response from Richard D. sums it up: “Life will leave you behind if we don’t embrace the change that is rapidly happening with AI.”
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Christmas with the Crawfords
Desert Theatreworks presents Christmas with the Crawfords from December 13–29 at the Riviera Resort Palm Springs, a wild holiday bash hosted by Joan Crawford (Ethylina Canne) that spirals into Hollywood mayhem! Featuring Vanity Halston as Judy Garland, Sister Burna Cross as Carmen Miranda, and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Kornbread Jete’, this glam-packed show is full of surprise guests and spot-on impersonations. With Paul Crane as Christina Crawford, James Flaherty as Hedda Hopper, and Stan Jenson switching between Mae West and Ethel Merman, this zany holiday spectacle is a Tinseltown toast you won’t want to miss. Get tickets
Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical
Desert Theatreworks’ annual Christmas production is back, and this time it’s the uproarious Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical, running from December 6–29 at the Indio Performing Arts Center. Join the zany sisters of Nunsense as they spread holiday cheer, yuletide laughs, and a dash of festive mischief. Broadcasting live from the basement of Mount Saint Helen’s Convent, the sisters take to the airwaves for a cable access Christmas special like no other. Get tickets
Holiday Performances at the McCallum Theatre
The McCallum Theatre continues an exciting lineup of holiday events this weekend: on Friday, December 20, it’s Matteo Bocelli at 8 pm for A Night with Matteo, showcasing his dynamic vocal performances and heartfelt songs. The Irish Tenors will grace the stage on Saturday, December 21, at 8 pm, bringing their beloved Celtic music and standing ovation-worthy performances. Finally, wrap up the festivities on Sunday, December 22, with Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour 2024 at 7 pm, featuring fresh renditions of timeless Christmas classics and a Chanukah medley. Get tickets
The 39 Steps
CVRep presents The 39 Steps from December 11–22. Mix a Hitchcock movie masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python comedic flair and you have this fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 madcap characters (played by an absurdly talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “Everything about this production is spot on. The entire cast has impeccable comic timing.” Read his full review and Get tickets
Stephen Sondheim’s Company
Revolution Stage Company presents Stephen Sondheim’s Company from December 6–22. Come see the revolutionary musical that redefined Broadway. This sharp, sophisticated show explores the complexities of love, commitment, and friendship through the eyes of Bobby, a charming bachelor navigating modern relationships’ chaotic, often bewildering landscape. The show’s innovative structure weaves together a series of vignettes that are as funny as they are poignant. Our theatre reviewer Stephen Radosh says “the sharpness of Furth’s book and Sondheim’s score shine as brightly today as they did at COMPANY’s premiere, 54 years ago!!!” Read his review and Get tickets
I’ll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers
THE BENT brings to the stage John Logan’s electrifying play, I’ll Eat You Last from December 6–22 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in the world of Sue Mengers, the formidable 1970s super-agent (portrayed here by Academy Award Nominee Cathy Moriarty). This one-woman show, famously portrayed by Bette Midler in its Broadway premiere, captures the essence of Mengers with her sharp wit, relentless name-dropping, and savvy showbiz advice. As described by The New York Times, Logan’s portrayal of Mengers is a tour de force, filled with disco-era flair and razor-sharp humor. Get tickets
Mary Poppins
Palm Canyon Theatre presents Mary Poppins, playing through December 22. This musical invites us to London, England in 1910 where the magical Mary Poppins flies in on the wind, bringing with her a combination of whimsy and disciplined common sense to the Banks children’s lives. Together, they go on many fantastical and memorable adventures. Mary Poppins teaches all ages that “anything can happen if you let it.” Get tickets
BUNKER
Get ready for BUNKER, the desert’s ultimate leather playground for gay men, Saturdays from 9 pm–2 am at Oscar’s Downtown Palm Springs for an unforgettable night with DJ Rafael. Embrace your love for military uniforms, enjoy draft beer for just $3, and take advantage of free entry during the first hour. Don’t miss this exciting new gathering! Get tickets
Fa La La…Fabulous! w/Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus
Fa La La…Fabulous! by the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus is sold out! This weekend at the Annenberg Theater, the annual holiday concert celebrates its silver anniversary in grand style. The program features classic holiday favorites and fresh new arrangements, with performances by the Desert Winds Freedom Band and local artists. More info
Western X-Mas Holiday Bear Retreat
Get ready to celebrate the holidays in a truly unique way at the Western X-Mas Holiday Bear Retreat, happening Friday–Sunday, December 20–22, at CCBC Resort. This event is perfect for those looking to spend the season with their chosen family, offering a home-cooked meal, a lively gift exchange, and plenty of festive cheer. Enjoy the unstructured, free-flowing atmosphere of Western Xposure events, where you can relax in the pool, hot tubs, and steam room, or explore the trails and back rooms. With a body and sex-positive environment, this retreat promises a cozy, friendly, and fun experience for all attendees. Everyone on the naughty list is welcome! Get tickets
Dry Heat XXXMAS Party
The Dry Heat XXXMAS Party at Club Sirocco is Saturday, December 21 from 9 pm–2 am, featuring AA, E.Feld, Dr. Time, and special guest DJ BRD. Whether you’re coming solo, with your chosen fam, or that new beefcake tourist, this event promises a judgment-free dance floor and a night of unforgettable fun. Rock your best holiday attire—be it cheesy reindeer antlers, a sequined Santa suit, or leather goblin realness—and get ready to slay. Dry Heat is inclusive, underground, and undeniably weird. More info
Deserted Films’ Holiday Oddities 3!
Looking for a holiday boost or running low on cheer? Head to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Sunday, December 22 at 7 pm for Holiday Oddities 3 (Now with more oddity!). Join local film archivists Melissa Dollman and Devin Orgeron from Deserted Films for a delightful evening of holiday-themed film artifacts, including home movies, shorts, and animations from decades past. Enjoy one-of-a-kind films from the Deserted Films vaults, featuring vintage Palm Springs and regional footage. Sip on a drink as you embark on an engaging holiday tour of other people’s cherished memories. Get tickets
Magic of Lights
Magic of Lights, a unique and dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience, runs daily through December 29 (Sun–Thurs 5:30–9 pm / Fri–Sat 5:30–10 pm), bigger and brighter than ever with more than a mile of spectacular light displays at the Empire Polo Club. Don’t miss the larger-than-life sparkling Holiday Barbie™ display, the supersized Bigfoot® Monster Truck, and life-sized dinosaurs of Prehistoric Christmas, with favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season depicted with the latest LED technology and digital animations. Get tickets
Thriving and Creating: Meet the Artists
The HIV+ Aging Research Project presents “Thriving & Creating,” a month-long gallery show celebrating artists living with HIV. The event runs from December 2–28, with special meet-the-artist events on Saturdays. On Saturday, December 21 from 11 am–3 pm, you can meet Robert Seabrook, Roger Leiton, Demarco Johnson, and Jamie Galluci. More info
Christmas at the Grande Ole Dame
Musical Theatre University presents the world premiere of a brand new holiday musical, Christmas at the Grande Ole Dame on Friday & Saturday, December 20 & 21 at 7:30 pm at the Richards Center for the Arts. This heartwarming show features a cast of talented students and alumni, as well as Broadway veterans Douglas Graham, Tim Ewing, and Leslie Tinnaro; written by celebrated stage, television and film actors Joyce Bulifant and Roger Perry. Come for a poignant holiday love story about a first love that lasted a lifetime and a man’s journey back in time to un unforgettable Christmas at the historic Hotel Colorado — the “Grand Ole Dame.” Get tickets
Ugly Sweater Theme Night at Acrisure Arena
The Coachella Valley Firebirds are heating up the holidays with the Annual Ugly Sweater Theme Night on Friday, December 20 at 7 pm as the Coachella Valley Firebirds go against the Ontario Reign. Show your holiday spirit with your best “ugly” holiday attire, enjoy photos with Santa, festive food and beverage specials, and bid on Ugly Sweater warm-up jerseys along with a variety of holiday and limited-edition themed merchandise. The first 6,000 fans can score a free Firebirds Holiday Stocking. Get tickets
Wildlights at The Living Desert
WildLights at The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens is open select nights through December 30, inviting guests to see the Zoo in a whole new light: This year’s event features an enhanced light design with three million lights throughout the park, live nightly entertainment, Instagram-worthy festive photo ops, delectable wintertime treats, and much more. In addition to the lights, you may see some of Africa’s most iconic animals, such as the rhino, giraffe, zebra, and African painted dogs at night. Get tickets
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, December 20
Animal Samaritans’ Palm Springs Yappy Hour | 4–6 pm at Boozehounds
Holiday Dance Party w/Keisha D | 6–9 pm at Spiritual Center of the Desert
Snowtopia Winter Wonderland | 6–9 pm at the Palm Springs Air Museum
Santa Drew’s Naughty & Nice Cabaret | 7 pm at Toucans Tiki Lounge
Country Dance Fridays: Beginner Waltz with Jan Alden | 7 pm at Step by Step
Saturday, December 21
Desert Film Society Screening: Marcella | 10 am at Palm Springs Cultural Center
Sunday, December 22
Free Screening: The Muppet Christmas Carol | 3 pm at Palm Springs Cultural Center
