Half-way there! That’s the word from two separate fundraising efforts counting on private funding to get over the finish line.
The Plaza Theatre will open in December, and the lineup was announced this week with tickets on sale today (Feb. 21). Lily Tomlin, one of the theatre’s financial supporters, will open the season.
J.R. Roberts quipped to a Modernism Week audience Thursday that he had a very special offer just for them: “For $10 million, your name can appear here”, as he showed a photo of the sign at the top of the Palm Canyon Drive landmark. It’s no joke: costs were higher than anticipated, but the result will be a magnificent rebirth of a venue that helped put Palm Springs on the map.
Jim Cook took the audience through a multimedia presentation that deserves to be seen by everyone. With rare footage, interviews and period photos, the Plaza Theatre’s history came to life in a new way. (Side note: Radio played an important part of that history as the stars of the day broadcast live from the Plaza and touted our city’s attributes to a national audience. Today, we at KGAY reach a worldwide audience with our streaming and continue to be a beacon for tourism.)
Philanthropist Brad Prescott has put down a $1 million matching donation. With the impending opening, it’s a good time to donate.
Not to be overshadowed — and of great importance to our LGBTQ+ communities — the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial is gaining traction as its fundraising efforts head toward the finish line. The memorial is in need of approximately $600,000 in funding to complete the project.
At a presentation to “Salon for the Parched”, Dan Spencer, task force board member, gave a heartfelt history of loss during the AIDS crisis. His personal journey I had not heard before, and it reminds me that the stories from that era are so important.
Artist Phillip K. Smith took us through the history of the project, including the painful times when the first design met with Fox News-driven controversy that forced him to go back to the drawing board. Importantly, what came out of the kerfuffle, according to Smith, was the realization that this was a memorial and not a monument. That changed his perspective and allowed today’s stellar design to emerge and win approval.
I look forward to next Modernism Week when we’ll be able to step inside The Plaza Theatre and hear news that the AIDS Memorial is almost ready for unveiling!
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!
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International Bear Convergence
The International Bear Convergence (IBC) is the premier winter Bear Event in Palm Springs, taking place all weekend at host Hotel Zoso. This event brings together thousands of bears, cubs, chasers, admirers, and their fans for “fun, frolic & fur.” With world-renowned DJs, live performances, and exciting pool parties, IBC offers something for everyone. KGAY’s DJ Galaxy will be playing the Redemption Pool Party on Sunday, February 23 from 10 am–4 pm! More info
Do you know where the bears cruise? Find out all weekend at Blackbook Bar, and especially during the IBC “Meat” and Greet on Friday from 3:30–7 pm! Look for the QR code on their drink coasters to learn more about BearCruise.com and all the great vacations they have planned for 2025 and 2026!
Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament
The 2025 Palm Springs International Pride Hockey Tournament takes place Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23. Hosted by Coachella Valley Pride Hockey, this exciting event features games and social events every day. Enjoy free admission and parking for games all day long at both Acrisure Arena and Berger Iceplex. On Saturday, the Coachella Valley Firebirds play the Calgary Wranglers at 6 pm, followed by a Dog Tag party at the Tool Shed starting at 9 pm. The closing party will take place on Sunday at 7 pm at Blackbook. More info
38th Annual Black History Parade and Town Fair
The Palm Springs Black History Committee and the City of Palm Springs are hosting the 38th Annual Black History Parade and Town Fair on Saturday, February 22. This year’s theme is “African Americans and Labor.” The parade will start at 11 am at Baristo Road and Palm Canyon; look for the KGAY Desert Guide Volvo along with volunteers from the Palm Springs Pride organization, marching in support of Black History Month. Immediately following the Parade, the Town Fair is held at the Downtown Palm Springs Park from 12–6 pm. More info
Modernism Week 2025 Final Weekend
Modernism Week is wrapping up its 20th anniversary iteration from February 13–23. Attendees can enjoy double-decker bus tours, architectural walking, biking, and bus tours, visits to the Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands, a vintage trailer show, a classic car show, garden tours, and nightly parties. The festival also includes live presentations, historic films, and talks from experts, providing an in-depth exploration of modernist architecture. Many events are free or low-cost, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty and history of mid-century modern architecture. More info
Experience the heart of Modernism Week at CAMP (Community and Meeting Place), located at the Hyatt Palm Springs. This central hub offers a variety of activities, including daily talks, film screenings, and presentations in the Modernism Week Theater. Visitors can also enjoy the Modernism Week store by Destination PSP, all-day food and drinks, book signings, and engaging sponsor displays. Admission is FREE and also free at CAMP, you can pick up a hard copy of the Spring 2025 Edition of our KGAY Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide!
Lady Bunny: Don’t Bring the Kids
Drag legend and razor-witted comic Lady Bunny comes to the Palm Springs Cultural Center on Friday, February 21 from 7–9 pm. After multiple sold-out residencies in New York, Lady Bunny is taking her raunchy tour de force, Don’t Bring the Kids, on the road. Combining singing, comedy, and dancing, this show is sure to make conservatives squirm. As the New York Times states, it “will have audiences weeping with laughter while groaning in disgust.” Get tickets
Desert Pet Walk
Get ready for a pawsome time at the 2nd Annual Desert Pet Walk, presented by Silvercrest, on Saturday, February 22 from 9 am–12 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Join the Shelter and Desert Wildlife Center for a fun-filled neighborhood walk through the beautiful Demuth Park area. Bring your family, friends, and pets to enjoy a perfect way to get active and show your support, with route options designed for pets and people of all abilities. Don’t miss KGAY 106.5 & 92.1 Out and About with John Taylor from 9 am–11 am. Lace up your walking shoes and be part of this fantastic event! More info
John Taylor “Out at About” at Ace Hardware Palm Springs
Join Ace Hardware for “Out and About with John Taylor” on Saturday, February 22 from 12–2 pm. Discover how Ace Hardware is more than just a store – it’s a part of your community, committed to being “the Helpful Place” by offering personalized service, quality products, and a convenient shopping experience. Celebrate their 25th anniversary with a massive blowout sale: Save up to 20% off on everything in stock! Get a chance to win gift cards, patio furniture, and even a BBQ grill! More info
Modernism Art District Tour
The Modernism Art District Tour is hosted by Modernism Week and The Alliance of Desert Arts (TADA), on Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22. This free self-guided tour features over 60 artists across five art districts, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at their workspaces and how their contemporary art is influenced by the mid-century modern era. Enjoy this exclusive opportunity to engage in discussions and explore artists’ studios at your own pace. Studios will be open Friday from 11 am–4 pm with a reception from 4–7 pm, and Saturday from 11 am–4 pm. More info
McCormick’s Classic Car Auction
Don’t miss McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction from Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center Outdoor Event area. This family-owned and operated classic car auction features over 500 classic and exotic cars, open to the general public and dealers. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with auctions held twice a year, offering a fantastic opportunity to see and purchase unique vehicles. And Fridays, as always, are FREE admission! Auction hours: Friday: 12–6 pm, Saturday: 10 am–7 pm, and Sunday: 10 am–5 pm. More info
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
Bear Naked at CCBC
Bear Naked, presented by Western Xposure, runs from February 20–23, at the CCBC Resort Hotel. This laid-back event invites the gay bear community and admirers to enjoy four days of relaxation, camaraderie, and fun in the sun. Immerse yourself in pool parties, social gatherings, and laid-back entertainment in a welcoming and clothing-optional environment. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. Get tickets
THEATRE
Dear Evan Hansen
This weekend at the McCallum Theatre from Friday–Sunday, February 21–23, is dedicated to the Tony and GRAMMY-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen, with multiple showtimes including Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm and 7:30 pm. This groundbreaking show dives deep into the struggles of mental health, loneliness, and the intense desire for connection in today’s world. It portrays the raw and often unspoken challenges of adolescence, highlighting how a single lie can spiral into a life-altering journey of self-discovery and empathy. Get tickets
Avenue Q
Revolution Stage Company presents Avenue Q from February 7–21. This Tony Award-winning musical brings its irreverent humor and quirky characters back to the RSC stage, offering a hilarious and touching look at the trials and triumphs of adulthood. Follow Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad, as he navigates life with his colorful neighbors, including Kate Monster, Rod, Nicky, and the unforgettable duo of Trekkie Monster and Lucy the Slut. With catchy songs like “It Sucks to Be Me” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,” this unique blend of puppetry and live actors explores love, friendship, and finding purpose. 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
ARRIVAL: The Music of ABBA
Experience the magic of ABBA with ARRIVAL from Sweden – The Music of ABBA on Saturday, February 22 at 8 pm at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage. Founded in 1995 in Gothenburg, Sweden, this renowned show band has toured 70 countries and is celebrated for its authenticity. Enjoy hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” in a spectacular production that consistently sells out arenas worldwide. Get tickets
Ben Jones: TEMPTATION
This weekend at The Purple Room, don’t miss Ben Jones: TEMPTATION on Friday and Saturday, February 21 & 22. Award-winning vocalist Ben Jones and legendary pianist, composer, and music director Ron Abel will deliver an evening of side-splitting laughs and unbelievable music. Featuring songs by renowned artists like Lesley Bricusse & Anthony Newley, Nat King Cole, Peggy Lee, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jones captivates audiences with his touching and hilarious renditions of your favorite songs about infatuation, obsession, and temptation. Dinner at 6 pm, Show at 8 pm. Get tickets
John Stanley King Band at The Gardens on El Paseo
The Gardens on El Paseo 27th Annual Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 22 at 4 pm with John Stanley King Band, benefiting YMCA of the Desert. Reserve your tickets now and wine down on the Center Lawn, Saturday evenings to support your community. Upcoming benefit shows include: Jimmy Buffett Tribute (3/1), and Rod Stewart Tribute (3/8).
