Special Event
Brew at the Zoo at The Living Desert
Brew at the Zoo is one of The Living Desert’s major fundraisers. By attending this annual event, participants will be “Saving Wildlife One Beer at a Time,” and supporting the mission of desert conservation through preservation, education and appreciation.
T
he Living Desert Zoo and Gardens’ wildly popular Brew at the Zoo will return on Saturday, April 2 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Early bird tickets at reduced prices for the seventh annual event are on sale now. More than 50 breweries and restaurants will be offering unlimited samples of premium craft beers, wine and food amidst the spectacular backdrop of The Living Desert’s wildlife and botanical gardens. Craft beer from some of the finest
specialty breweries around will be on tap and premium wines and non-alcoholic beverage round out the libations. Attendees also will enjoy a culinary adventure of tasty dishes ranging from Italian, Mexican and American to barbeque and desserts from some of the Coachella Valley’s top restaurants and caterers. The evening will feature several stages of live music and entertainment, as well as animal encounters throughout the grounds.
Tickets include unlimited tastes of premium craft beers, wine and food. Now through April 1, tickets are $60 for members, $65 non-members. A limited amount of VIP Lounge tickets are available for $125 and include early entry to the event, a full bar, and special food offerings. Tickets purchased on April 2 are: $70 member, $75 non-member. Designated driver tickets are available for $40 and include unlimited food tasting and non-alcoholic beverages. To purchase tickets visit www.livingdesert.org or for more information call (760) 346-5694. The Living Desert is located at 47-900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert.
This Week
The Dinah Entertainment Lineup, page 18
4 5 6 7 9 10 12 13 17 18 21 22 23 26 27 28
Neil Sedaka with The Desert Symphony
Desert Living Home Show in Palm Springs ANA Inspiration Calendar of Events & Performances Free Guided Art Tour in Palm Desert Curtain Time
Piano Men - A Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel First Weekend Palm Desert “The Arabian Nights” at Indian Wells Theater The Dinah Entertainment Lineup American Documentary Film Festival Film Review: “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” Nightlife Date Night at JEM Steakhouse “Sugar” at Palm Canyon Theatre PEP Talk:
TELL OUR ADVERTISERS YOU SAW THEM IN THE DESERT ENTERTAINER! 2 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
www.desertentertainer.com
Entertainment
Kenny G
at McCallum Theatre
T
he McCallum Theatre and Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald present Kenny G as part of the Fitz’s Jazz Café series, on Monday, April 4, at 8 p.m. In a recording career that spans almost three decades and 23 albums, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G has grafted elements of R&B, pop, and Latin to a jazz foundation solidifying his reputation as the premiere artist in contemporary jazz. Since the early ‘80s, his combination of unparalleled instrumental chops and indelible melodies has resulted in sales of more than 75 million records worldwide (45 million in the U.S. alone) and more than a dozen climbs to the top of Billboard’s contemporary jazz chart. Kenny G was born in Seattle and began playing the saxophone at 10. He continued with the sax in his teens while falling in love with the R&B sounds of popular groups like Earth, Wind & Fire. In 1973, at just 17 years old, Kenny G was hired by Barry White to play with his Love Unlimited Orchestra at the Paramount Northwest Theater in Seattle. The gig with White and his band was the first of several for the saxophonist, it was around this time that he changed his name from Kenneth Gorelick to Kenny G. Kenny G marked a solid start to his career when he released his self-titled debut album in 1982, striking a balance between jazz and R&B. His next two albums, G Force and Gravity, continued his upward trajectory, but it was his fourth studio album, Duotones, that made the saxophonist an international star. Eventually topping five million sales, the silky-smooth jazz album led the way for Kenny G to work with other bigname stars. During his career, he’s also performed with Barbra Streisand, Burt Bacharach and Frank Sinatra. Over the next decade Kenny G and his smooth sound dominated the airwaves and the record charts. In 1994, Kenny G won a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition for the track “Forever in Love.” That year he also released his first holiday album, Miracles, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
In addition to his recording success, Kenny G set a Guinness World Record in 1997 for playing the longest note ever recorded on a saxophone. At a performance at J&R Music World in New York, he employed a method called circular breathing to hold an E-flat for 45 minutes and 47 seconds. Kenny G has also taken on different kinds of musical forms. The saxophonist has recorded albums that have displayed his appreciation for jazz standards (Classics in the Key of G), tropical sounds (Paradise), and Latin beats (Rhythm and Romance). In 2010 he delivered the R&B– driven album Heart and Soul, with contributions from Robin Thicke and Babyface, and in 2015 he returned to Latin inspirations for Brazilian Nights, a salute to bossa nova. In addition to his music career, Kenny G is a passionate golfer. In 2006, Golf Digest named him the music industry’s No. 1 golfer. The McCallum Theatre, Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, and Fitz’s Jazz Café at the McCallum present Kenny G on Monday, April 4, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $80, $70, $47 and $37 and are available online at www. mccallumtheatre.com or by calling (760) 340-2787. McCallum Theatre, located at 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 3
Entertainment
Neil Sedaka
with The Desert Symphony
M
arilyn Benachowski, Cofounder of The Desert Symphony along with President of the Board, Nancy Tapick, have announced plans for their exciting 27th Anniversary Gala, scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 9, at The McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert at 8 p.m. “We are thrilled to announce the legendary and world-renowned Singer/ Songwriter Neil Sedaka, will be performing in concert with our wonderful and dedicated Desert Symphony musicians,” stated Tapick. “And we are thrilled to be honoring the Valley’s own Harold Matzner, who will be presented with our Amadeus Award, honoring the memory of Maestro Benachowski’s favorite composer, the renowned Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.” This award, recognizes extraordinary philanthropy and dedication to the musical arts, a description which truly fits Harold Matzner. Previous recipients of the Amadeus Award have included Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Jack Jones, John Tesh and Frankie Randall. Singer, songwriter, pianist, and author are just a few of the titles that can be used to describe Neil Sedaka. Classically trained at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, his impressive 60 year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the ‘50s, an accomplished songwriter in the ‘60s, a superstar in the ‘70s, and remaining a constant force in writing and performing. This is all thanks to the countless songs Sedaka has written, performed, and produced that continue to inspire artists and audiences around the world. Sedaka has received numerous accolades in his tenure as a singer/songwriter, including an induction into The Songwriters Hall of Fame, in addition to being the recipient of their prestigious Sammy Cahn Award. With over sixty million records sold, Sedaka is the genius and voice behind such timeless classics as “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do,” Laughter In The Rain,” Calendar Girl,” “Oh, Carol!”, and “Love Will Keep Us Together,” “Bad Blood,” and “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen,” among many others.
In addition to composing, performing, and a consistent international touring schedule, Sedaka never rests on his laurels. He has written and recorded his first symphonic piece and a piano concerto, which are being performed by orchestras all around the world. He is currently working on a Broadway show based on his life. All of these ventures continue to add to his legend and legacy. Individual and corporate sponsorships are available. Sponsorships range from $50,000 to $5,000, which includes dinner in McCallum Theatre’s exclusive Founders Room, with Lavender Bistro catering. Post-concert VIP party to personally meet Neil Sedaka. For sponsorship information please call (760) 773-5988 or (760) 895-8747. Gala premier dinner and concert packages include a pre-concert dinner at Cuistot and Wally’s. These tickets are priced at $1,000 for two at your choice of restaurant plus two premium seats. Single Gala tickets are priced at $500, includes dinner at a restaurant of your choice plus one premium seat. These tickets are available by calling (760) 773-5988 or at www.desertsymphony.org. Single tickets (without dinner) are $202, $127, and $102 and can be purchased by calling The McCallum Theatre Box Office at (760) 340-ARTS or by visiting www.mccallumtheatre.com.
4 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Special Event
Desert Living Home Show in Palm Springs
M
ike Spanton, Show Manager of World Class Shows, announced that the Carey Brothers, stars of “On The House,” a nationally syndicated home improvement show, will be appearing at the Desert Living Home show. James Carey and Morris Carey, known as the Carey Bros., are nationally-recognized experts on home building and renovation. They share their 70+ years of experience as award-winning, licensed contractors with millions of people nationwide through a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column both titled “On The House.” Beyond radio and print, the Carey’s have a rich and colorful history in television. Clad in their signature bright-col-
www.desertentertainer.com
thored four “how-to” books. The Carey Bros. also write a regular monthly column for The Family Handyman, a Reader’s Digest home improvement magazine. Attendees will have a chance to meet and learn from the Carey Brothers, at the Desert Living Home Show, Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2.
The Carey Brothers ored bib overalls, they have appeared as the home improvement editors on CBS News Saturday Morning; Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family; and have appeared as guests on various national and local television programs. Besides their syndicated column, the Carey Bros. have au-
In addition, the Desert Living Home Show will feature John Garrison with Garrison Foothill Nursery. Garrison Foothill Nursery is southern California’s premier promoter of natural plants from the Southwest. Garrison Foothill Nursery has proved that beautiful gardens can be achieved with heat endurant, colorful plants that thrive in our environment.
John Garrison is dedicated to continually introduce better plants for the changing balance and distribution of water in California. Southwestern plants are and individuals best contribution to balancing California’s water usage in residential, agricultural, industrial and environmental requirements. John Garrison will be appearing at the Desert Living Home Show, April 1, 2 and 3. The Desert Living Home Show held on April 1, 2 and 3 at the Palm Springs Convention Center, 277 N. Avenida Caballeros in Palm Springs. For more information visit, www.worldclassshows.com or call (650) 593-2465.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 5
Special Event
ANA Inspiration in Rancho Mirage
D
efending champion Brittany Lincicome will headline a field of the LPGA’s biggest stars at the 45th annual ANA Inspiration at Mission Hills Country Club. The LPGA’s most iconic major championship will feature 110 of the world’s best golfers, including the top 15 players on the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. Last year, Lincicome made eagle on the 72nd hole to force a playoff with Stacy Lewis before winning with a par on the third hole of sudden death. It was the second major championship win and second ANA Inspiration win for the Florida native, who made her first leap into Poppie’s Pond in 2009. “The course sets up perfectly for me and I can’t wait to get back and relive some many special memories,” said Lincicome. “Even if I had never won the ANA Inspiration, this tournament would be special to me. I can say it’s my favorite championship we play. For me, it’s the spiritual home for the LPGA and has so much history and now I’m part of the history.” Lincicome and Lewis (2011) are two of nine past champions of the event returning to Rancho Mirage with their eyes on the Dinah Shore trophy and traditional Imabari champion’s robe. Other past winners in the field at Mission Hills include World No. 3 Lexi Thompson (2014), World No. 2 Inbee Park (2013), SunYoung Yoo (2012), Yani Tseng (2010), Morgan Pressel(2007), Karrie Webb (2000, 2006), 2015 and 2017 U.S. Women’s Solheim Cup captain Juli Inkster (1984, 1989) and Amy Alcott (1983, 1988, 1991), the first to leap into Poppie’s Pond. World No. 1 and 2015 Rolex Player of the Year Lydia Ko will make her fourth appearance at the ANA Inspiration with her sights set on winning a second-consecutive major championship. Last September, Ko became the youngest major winner in LPGA Tour history at the Evian Championship, where she carded a final-round 63. 2015 Louise Suggs Rolex Rookie of the Year Sei Young Kim will return to the
Brittany Lincicome
Stacy Lewis ANA Inspiration this year after holding the 54-hole lead in 2015, before tying for fourth. She won the JTBC Founders Cup and tied the LPGA Tour record held by Annika Sorenstam for lowest four-round total in relation to par at 27-under. Other top-ranked players in the field at the ANA Inspiration include World No. 6 Ha Na Jang, winner of the Coates Golf Championship and HSBC Women’s Champions this season; Canadian star and World No. 8 Brooke Henderson, who tied for 26th as an amateur in 2014; and Cristie Kerr, the all-time leading American money winner in LPGA history. Six amateurs have accepted invitations to play in the ANA Inspiration, including 2015 U.S. Amateur Championship winner Hannah O’Sullivan, Sierra Brooks, Karen Chung, Bronte Law, Leona Maguire and Albane Valenzuela. For more information on the ANA Inspiration, please visit www.ANAInspiration.com or call (760) 834-8857.
6 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Calendar
Events & Performances March 31 thru April 7 ONGOING ACTIVITIES
Certified Farmers’ Markets IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas Smithsonian traveling exhibition focusing on the seldomviewed history and complex lives of people of dual African American and Native American ancestry. Fee admission and free parking. Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, 219 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. (760) 778-1079, www.accmuseum.org. Palm Springs Historical Walking Tours 7 different walking tours including tours of downtown Palm Springs, historic neighborhoods with high concentrations of celebrity homes, mid-century modern commercial properties as well as inns. Visit www.pshistoricalsociety.org for description of tours, days and times. 221 S. Palm Canyon Dr. in the Village Green, Call for more information (760) 323-8297. Reservations required.
Certified Farmers’ Markets Fruits, vegetables, artisan food vendors and other products from California certified farms. Locations: Palm Springs, Saturdays at 8 a.m., 2300 Baristo Road. La Quinta, Sundays at 8 a.m., Old Town La Quinta at 78100 Main Street. Palm Desert, Wednesdays at 8 a.m. to noon, 72-599 Highway 111. VillageFest Every Thursday, 7 to 10 p.m. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, food, farmers’ market, downtown Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive. Stores along the street stay open late. (760) 320-3781. Palm Springs Vintage Market First Sunday of the month, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Experience a diverse gathering of merchants selling vintage, retro and mid century merchandise. Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo, Palm Springs. Visit www.palmspringsvintagemarket.com for more details.
FOR BAR, LOUNGE ENTERTAINMENT, SEE NIGHTLIFE ON PAGE 25. FOR THEATER LISTINGS, SEE CURTAIN TIME ON PAGE 10.
www.desertentertainer.com
4/4 3/31 - 4/3
4/1
ANA Inspiration The world’s best golfers tee it up at the LPGA’s first Major: world #1 Lydia Ko, Brooke Henderson, Sei Young Kim, and defending champion Brittany Lincicome headline the field. Dinah Shore Tournament Course, Mission Hills Country Club, Rancho Mirage. www. anainspiration.com.
Brew at the Zoo 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Crafts beer, wine, appetizers, dessert, live music, VIP Lounge, animal encounters and more! Must be 21 to attend. The Living Desert, 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. (760) 346-5694, www. livingdesert.org.
The Dinah The largest girl party music festival in the world. Includes performances by Jolivi, Elle King, Hunter Valentine, Angel Haze, DJ Samantha Ronson, DJ Taryn Manning and more! www.thedinah.com.
An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin 8 p.m. Performing more than a dozen of her timeless characters, from Ernestine to Mrs. Beasley to Edith Ann. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. (760) 340-2782, www.mccallumtheatre.com.
3/31 - 4/4 American Documentary Film Festival Screening 150 films from more than 35 countries. Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs. www.americandocumentaryfilmfestival.com.
4/1 Free Tribute Concerts: Vitalogy 8 p.m. Tribute to Pearl Jam. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Pl, Coachella. (760) 7755566, www.spotlight29.com. Don Menza’s 8 Man tribute to the Music of Stan Getz 8 p.m. Enjoy world class jazz performed by some of the worlds most talented jazz musicians. Non-profit concerts. Pete Carlson’s Golf & Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. (760) 568-3263, www. petecarlsonsgolf.com.
4/1 - 4/3 Desert Living Home Show 100’s of exhibits! All under one roof! Remodeling, building, landscaping or redecorating? You must come to this show! Meet and learn from renovation experts The Carey Brothers and John Garrison from Garrison Foothill Nursery. Palm Springs Convention Center, 277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs. (650) 593-2465, www.worldclassshows.com. Indian Wells Arts Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. An international Palette with 200 Juried and Acclaimed Artists representing more than 25 countries. Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 78200 Miles Ave, Indian Wells. (760) 346-0042, www. indianwellsartsfestival.com.
4/2 Shelly Manne Tribute with Gary Foster 8 p.m. 8 p.m. Enjoy world class jazz performed by some of the worlds most talented jazz musicians. Non-profit concerts. Pete Carlson’s Golf & Tennis, 73741 Highway 111, Palm Desert. (760) 568-3263, www. petecarlsonsgolf.com. Desert Plants and Animals - Displays 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Traditional uses of some of the plants growing at the Museum. Learn how Cahuilla Indians used plants and animals for medicine, shelter, food and clothing in the Coachella Valley region. This event is recommended for everyone over 6 years of age. Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, 219 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. (760) 778-1079, www.accmuseum.org. Chris Botti 8 p.m. Botti has burnished an image of pensive romance, achieving stardom in the realm of adult contemporary pop. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. (760) 340-2782, www.mccallumtheatre.com.
4/3 Music of the Masters: Past and Present 2 p.m. From Holst, RimskyKorsakov and Shostakovitch to Bernstein, Reineke and Galante. Jewish Community Center, 332 W. Alejo Road, Palm Springs. (760) 469-9371, www.desertwindsfb.org.
Kenny G 8 p.m. One of the world’s most renowned soprano saxophone players. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. (760) 340-2782, www. mccallumtheatre.com.
4/5 American Documentary Film Festival Best of the Fest! 10 a.m. Screening the most popular films from the festival. From animation to shorts and features. Free, seating is limited. Palm Springs Public Library, 300 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs. (760) 322-7323, www.palmspringslibrary.org.
4/6 Frank Critzer and the Legend of Giant Rock 6 p.m. Giant rock covers 5,800 sq. ft. of ground and is 7 stories high. Presented by Barbara Harris, learn more about this incredible real-life story. Palm Springs Public Library, 300 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs. (760) 322-7323, www.palmspringslibrary.org.
4/7 Piano Men: A Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel 8 p.m. Get swept away in this dynamic, interactive concert celebrating two giants of Pop music as Craig A. Meyer and Donnie Kehr perform with Your Desert Symphony! McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. (760) 340-2782, www.mccallumtheatre.com.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 7
Crossword
“SEND MONEY” Across
45 Genesis garden
10 Fencer’s blade
46 Bud holder
11 Hilary’s outfit
48 Begin
12 Connects with
52 Knight’s title
13 Charlemagne’s realm: Abbr.
1 Skatepark feature
53 Perfect rating
5 Buddy
54 Formerly
9 Profundity
56 Domingo, for one
14 ___ vera
57 Diner food preparer
15 Nozzle site
61 Habitual practice
16 “Aren’t we ___?”
62 Obscure
17 Out-of-focus picture
63 Penny ___
32 Black ink item
18 “___ your pardon”
64 Penny, nickel, dime, etc.
34 Nervous excitement 37 Honey makers
20 March Madness failure
65 “If only ___ known...”
38 Big name in hotels
66 In ___ of
39 Like tennis serves
23 Intense rage
67 Chilean mountains
40 Tennis star Ana
24 Certain intersection
68 Like some dorms
41 Indy racer Al
25 John ___ Passos
69 Sticker fig. on a car
47 Salad leaf
19 Actress Zellweger
26 Close relative 28 Elon Musk’s company
Down
30 Cows and sows
1 Bugs Bunny, e.g.
32 Jemima, e.g.
2 Magnetism
33 Fingers
3 Cursor movers
35 ABA mem.
4 Bold and saucy
36 Physical location
5 Upbraid
37 Eschewed tradition
6 “Calvin & ___”
42 Gutter holder
7 Exploitative type
43 “___ had It”
8 Classic L.A. metal band
44 Bit of binary code
9 Some laundry loads
21 Give the slip 22 Sam’s Club rival 27 Kind of cell 29 Equate 31 Abominates
49 Hunk 50 Water cannon target 51 Begin 53 Deuce beaters 55 Caught congers 58 Arch molding 59 Start again 60 Waveless 61 Actress Thurman
ANSWERS ON PAGE 16
8 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Art Up
Free Guided Art Tour
in Palm Desert
“Messenger of the Puul”
T
he City of Palm Desert will offer a free guided walking tour of its public art collection in Civic Center Park on Saturday, April 2. Anyone interested in learning more about the artworks can meet near the flagpoles at the park’s south entrance from Fred Waring Drive (in front of the Messenger of the Puul sculpture) at 9 a.m. Held on selected Saturdays each month from September through May as part of First Weekend Palm Desert, the City’s free, one-hour docent-guided tours provide interesting facts and insight into Palm Desert’s renowned public art collection. Reservations are not required. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to enjoy and learn. For more information or to schedule a free private group tour, visit www.palmdesertart.org or call (760) 346-0611, ext. 664.
Desert Entertainer | 9 March 31 - April 6, 2016
Curtain Time
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy free concert in Rancho Mirage By Gary Walker For Desert Entertainer
C
raig A. Meyer and Donnie Kehr bring their keyboard skills to the Desert Symphony when they perform “Piano Men: A Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel,” Thursday evening at the McCallum Theatre.
Featuring the Rocket Band, the two pianists promise “two pianos… one unforgettable night,” playing such hits as “Piano Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Rocket Man,” “You May Be Right,” “Saturday Night’s All Right,” “Movin’ Out” and more. Meyer is considered the leading Elton John tribute artist and proves that compliment with such classics as “Candle in the Wind” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” Besides being a highly regarded Billy Joel tribute artist, Kehr is an accomplished actor, singer, musician and Broadway veteran, appearing in awardwinning musicals “Jersey Boys,” “The Who’s Tommy,” “Billy Elliot” and “The Human Comedy.” Curtain Time: “Piano Men: A Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel,” 8 p.m. Thursday, April 7, with the Desert Symphony, McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. Tickets and info: (760) 340-2787 or www.mccallumtheatre.com NOTE: A few tickets are left for the Desert Symphony’s 27th Annual Gala concert featuring Neil Sedaka, Saturdat, April 9 at 8 p.m., McCallum Theatre, Palm Desert. (760) 340-2787 or www.mccallumtheatre.com.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Music Masters The Desert Winds Freedom Band presents “Music of the Masters: Past & Present” Sunday afternoon, April 3, at Palm Springs’ Jewish Community Center. The concert will include classics from Holst, Rimsky-Korsakov and Shostakovich to Bernstein, Reineke and Galante. Curtain Time: “Music of the Masters: Past & Present,” 2 p.m. Sunday, April 3, Bochner Auditorium, Jewish Community Center, 332 West Alejo Road, Palm Springs. Tickets and additional information, call (760) 469-9371 or visit www. desertwindsfb.org.
Voodoo Daddy Free Concert One of the hottest tickets in the valley this year is FREE.
10 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will perform a free concert Sunday afternoon, April 3, at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater. This swing revival band from Southern California focuses on the swinging days of the ‘40s and ‘50s, borrowing some of the Rat Pack attitude and lingo in such hits as “Go Daddy-O,” “You & Me & the Bottle Makes Three” and “Mr. Pinstripe Suit.” Curtain Time: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, 5 p.m. Sun., April 3, presented by the City of Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage Amphitheater at Rancho Mirage Community Park. Free admission, open seating. Free parking nearby. Info: www. ranchomirageca.gov.
Hilligus for Free Chad Hilligus, former member of the multiple-platinum, Australia-based, rockopera group The Ten Tenors, performs a
free concert Saturday afternoon, April 9, at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater. When he went solo, he broke out as Tony in the critically acclaimed 50the Anniversary World Tour of “West Side Story.” He also has performed leading roles in “Oklahoma,” “Showboat, “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Hello, Dolly,” “State Fair,” “Godspell,” “Sound of Music” and “Street Scene.” Of special local interest, his opening act is Chase Huna, a valley high schooler and rising star saxophonist. Curtain Time: Chad Hilligus, 5 p.m. Saturday, April 9, presented by the City of Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage Amphitheater at Rancho Mirage Community Park. Free admission, open seating. Free parking nearby. Info: ranchomirageca.gov.
www.desertentertainer.com
Curtain Time “Arabian Nights” The transformative power of storytelling will be on display in Mary Zimmerman’s “The Arabian Nights,” running Saturday and Sunday, April 9-10, at the Indian Wells Theater on the Palm Desert campus of Cal State San Bernardino. Veteran director Kathryn Ervin is a CSUSB theatre arts professor and notes that the program is not recommended for anyone under 17. The University’s Assistant Professor of Music Allen Menton composed the music. Playwright Zimmerman is the renowned director and author of such plays as “Journey to the West,” “Metamorphosis,” “Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci,” “Secrets in the Wings” and “Argonautika.” She was the recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship
in 1998 and is a Tony winner for best direction of “Metamorphosis” in 2002. Her adaptation of “The Arabian Nights” earned her a 1994 Drama Desk nomination as Outstanding Director of a Play. The famous collection of stories spans many centuries and includes literature and folklore from Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. For instance, there’s the story of Sultan Shahryar who is heartbroken by his unfaithful wife, and in an act of revenge marries, loves, then kills his brides – until the fateful day he weds Scheherazade. Curtain Time: “The Arabian Nights,” 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 8-10, Indian Wells Theater, CSUSB Palm Desert campus, 37500 Cook St. Tickets and info: (760) 341-6909 or www. IWTheater.com.
Box Office Saturday, April 16, presented by McCallum Theatre Institute. Tickets and info: (760) 340-2787 or www. mccallumtheatre.com. • Angel Romero, 7 p.m. Friday, April 1, presented by the City of Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage Amphitheater at Rancho Mirage Community Park. $50$65, open seating. Free parking nearby. Info: www.ranchomirageca.gov.
“Altar Boyz” at Palm Canyon Theatre • “Art,” by Yasmina Reza, 2 p.m. matinees; 7:30 p.m. Wed., Friday; 8 p.m. Saturday, thru April 3. Coyote StageWorks, Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Way. Tickets and info: (760) 325-4490 or www.annenbergtheater.org. • “Sugar” (musical version of “Some Like It Hot”), 7 p.m. Thursday; 8 p.m. FridaySaturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, thru April 3, Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Desert. Info: (760) 323-5123 or www.palmcanyontheatre.org. • Open Call 2016, 7 p.m. ThursdayFriday, April 14-15; 2 and 7 p.m.
• “Music of the Masters: Past & Present,” 2 p.m. Sunday, April 3, Bochner Auditorium, Jewish Community Center, 332 West Alejo Road, Palm Springs. Tickets and info: (760) 4699371 or www.desertwindsfb.org. • “The Arabian Nights,” 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 8-10, Indian Wells Theater, CSUSB Palm Desert campus, 37500 Cook St. Tickets and info: (760) 341-6909 or www.IWTheater.com. • “Altar Boyz,” 8 p.m. Friday; 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 8 -10, Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Desert. Info: (760) 323-5123 or www.palmcanyontheatre.org.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 11
Entertainment
Piano Men a Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel with The Desert Symphony By Norman Rosenberg
W
hat a match made in heaven! Elton John and Billy Joel, the two most amazing Piano Men of our time, together at last in this fabulous tribute show. You won’t want to miss Tony Award winning Broadway actors, Craig A. Meyer and Donnie Kerr as they recreate their alter-egos while playing all the Grammy Award winning songs made famous by Sir Elton and Billy Joel. Craig A. Meyer is widely considered and recognized to be the best Elton John tribute artist, whose strong vocals coupled with his amazing talent on the piano, has audiences remembering when Rock and Roll was young. When Craig teamed up with Donnie Kerr and his magnificent Billy Joel tribute, magic happened. Sitting at their pianos “face to face”, these dueling Piano Men have played to sold out audiences across the U.S., Europe and Asia. This is your chance to see the show that others around the world have been cheer-
ing for! The Piano Men will be in concert with your Desert Symphony on April 7. Don’t miss this spectacular show with music that will have you on your feet dancing! Piano Men: A Tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel, Thursday, April 7 at 8 p.m. Tickets available by calling the McCallum Theatre box office at (760) 340-ARTS or visit www.desertsymphony.org. McCallum Theatre is located at 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert.
12 | Desert Entertainer | March 24 - 30, 2016
Entertainment
First Weekend Palm Desert
F
irst Weekend Palm Desert in April is another exciting weekend celebration of arts and culture, this month featuring The Living Desert’s Annual Brew at the Zoo. Fashion Week El Paseo returns and College of the Desert is showcasing the engaging exhibition, “The Salton Sea: Lost in Paradise,” while the McCallum Theater continues its world-class entertainment with new acts, plus much more! Taking place on Saturday evening is the featured event for First Weekend, The Living Desert’s Brew at the Zoo. Attendees can enjoy a number of craft beers and experience tasty dishes served from some of the Coachella Valley’s top restaurants and caterers. Premium wines and other libations will also be available. Beginning April 2, Fashion Week El Paseo 2016 presents runway shows featuring top couture designers, Stars of Project Runway, the El Paseo Runway show, FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising graduating student collections, and Le Chien Couture. While the event goes through April 9, two of the exciting shows take place on Saturday and Sunday. In addition to provocative and eye-popping fashion shows, there will be daytime events inside the shops of El Paseo. A thought provoking exhibition, “The Salton Sea: Lost in Paradise,” debuts on Friday, with an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibition is on view at the Marks Art Center, located at College of the Desert. Featuring a selection of works and memorabilia from the collection of the late Jennie Kelly, new video from Coachella Valley artist Cristopher Cichocki, Contemporary Sculpture by Ashley Hagen and Aili Schmeltz, photographic works from Christopher Landis, Joan Myers, Kim Stringfellow, and new work from photographers Victory Tischler-Blue, Bill Leigh Brewer and Doron Gazit. In addition, the exhibit will include paintings by
Deborah Martin and Andrew Dickson, Mary Austin-Klein and Eric Merrell, who will present a new series of “nocturnes” inspired by the Salton Sea. A site specific installation will be on view by Los Angeles based artist Thinh Nguyen who will present a durational performance, “From Dawn to Dust,” during the reception. Live entertainment continues Friday evening at The McCallum Theater with “An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin,” with Tomlin performing more than a dozen of her timeless characters, from Ernestine to Mrs. Beasley to Edith Ann. And, back by popular demand, acclaimed trumpeter Chris Botti on Saturday evening. Schedule of First Weekend activities for April: Friday, April 1, 8 - 9:30 p.m. Jazz for Jazz Lovers: Don Menza’s 8 Man Tribute to the Music of Stan Getz. Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis. Now in its 6th season, non-profit concert proceeds support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. www. petecarlsonsgolf.com Saturday, April 2, 1 to 5 p.m. Cruise In. Westfield Palm Desert from Join the Palms Springs Cruisin’ Association for an afternoon of custom cars, hotrods, classics, muscle cars, trucks, motorcycles and more. www.palmspringscruiseinassociation.com Saturday, April 2, from 8 - 9:30 p.m. Jazz for Jazz Lovers: Shelly Manne Tribute with Gary Foster at Pete Carlson’s Golf and Tennis. Non-profit concert proceeds support music education and scholarships for young musicians in the Coachella Valley. www.petecarlsonsgolf.com For more information or to view the scheduled events visit www.pdfirstweekend.com or call (760) 568-1441.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 13
Astrology
Horoscopes March 31 - April 6
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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum History, culture of Cahuilla Indians, baskets, artifacts, photographs. Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 219 South Palm Canyon, Palm Springs. (760) 778-1079. www.accmuseum.org. The Best of the Best Tours. Call for the Lowest and Best Tours in the Valley. We have been in business for 20 years now. The original PS Windmill Tour Company. Tours daily, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The original Rich & Famous City Celebrity Tour, Tours daily, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., Indian Canyon Tour, Daily at 9 a.m. Also offering Combination Tours. Call for reservations at (760) 320-1365 or visit www.thebestofthebesttours.com. Palm Springs Air Museum. One of the world’s largest collections of flyable Worl War II aircrafts and memorabillia, vintage automobiles, large-scale model ships. Open daily year round 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., last admission at 4 p.m. 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, www.palmspringsairmuseum.org.
Moorten Botanical Garden. 1701 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesdays. For more information, (760) 327-6555 or visit www.moortengarden.com. Coachella Valley History Museum. Open Thursday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio. For admission information call (760) 342-6651 or visit www.cvhm.org. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. World’s largest rotating tram provides breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley as it ascends Mt. San Jacinto. Monday - Friday. First tram up 10 a.m. Last tram up Sunday - Thursday 8 p.m., last tram down 9:45 p.m. Last Tram up Friday - Saturday 9 p.m. and last tram down 10:30 p.m. Highway 111 and Tram Road, Palm Springs. For info, (760) 325-1391. www. pstramway.com. Cabot’s Pueblo Museum. 67616 East Desert View Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. For more information call (760) 329-7610 or visit www.cabotsmuseum.org.
hen luminaries are three signs apart, a harmonic resonance vibrates between them. They are both in the same element and in a state of cosmic simpatico. This is the dynamic between Mercury and Saturn now, both singing in fire signs. Which activity will provide the best accompaniment for the electric hum of your heart? ARIES (March 21-April 19). Brilliance in any area of life usually comes off as effortless to those who don’t know any better — but you’re not fooled. You know the work that goes into navigating complexities, and you’re willing to do it. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). There are planners, and then there are “pantsers,” who prefer to throw themselves in and sort things out as they go. Such people will frighten you today until you join them in their moment-to-moment approach. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Mental pursuits ignite your energy, though you usually don’t seek them out directly. Today these pursuits will be byproducts of your social agenda, which will center on getting the undivided attention of a certain someone. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Even the most exciting, jet-fueled relationships must touch down to earth once in a while to refuel. Don’t take the slowed pace as a personal slight, because it’s actually necessary to the overall momentum of the relationship.
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You will simultaneously succeed at more than one important endeavor, making you the envy of your friends and colleagues. In fact, to avoid unwanted complication, you may want to keep your successes to yourself. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will privately send your respect, affection and admiration to perfect strangers and this will boomerang back to you, as usual. The way you think about others is the way you think about yourself. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Of course you prefer to deal with the trustworthy, but sometimes that’s not an option and you have to go forward anyhow. Not today. Today you can’t afford to bother with those who inspire doubt in you. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Usually you naturally connect with like-minded people, but because your interests and values are shifting, you will have to take a more deliberate, conscious approach to finding the people you wish to circulate among. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Grudges harm most the one who holds them. For this reason you’ll let your grievances go. Another good reason is that you’re way too busy today to waste time remembering what you’re supposed to be bothered about. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll be asked to speak for the group, so be sure you know what the group wants to say. You’ll be given full access to a public forum in which to communicate your ideas and start a ball rolling. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You find your path to happiness by following the spark of curiosity that ignites in you this morning. Given that pursuit, and your keen awareness of everyday beauty, this day will bring smiles by the dozens. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The friend who helps you see yourself the way others do is a treasure. If this person also possesses a kind, gentle way of delivering information, cherish this relationship, which is more valuable than gold.
16 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
On Stage
‘The Arabian Nights’ at Indian Wells Theater
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al State San Bernardino’s theatre arts department will present “The Arabian Nights,” by Mary Zimmerman, adapted from “The Book of One Thousand Nights and One,” on Saturday, April 9, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 10, at 2 p.m. This celebration of the transformative power of storytelling, directed by Kathryn Ervin, CSUSB theatre arts professor, and music composed by Allen Menton, assistant professor of music, will take place at the Indian Wells Theater at Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus. “The Arabian Nights” is not recommended for anyone under the age of 17.
www.desertentertainer.com
This famous collection of stories spans many centuries and includes literature and folklore from across Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. This spellbinding adaptation offers a blend of lesser-known tales using improvisation and movement to remind us all of the power of stories to soften our hearts. The Sultan Shahryar is heartbroken by his unfaithful wife. In an infamous act of revenge he marries, loves, then kills his brides – until the fateful day he weds Scheherazade, a clever young woman who delays her death by intriguing the mad king with tales of laughter, love, lust, sorrow and dreams. For 1,001 nights Scheherazade concludes one tale, then begins a
second one, prolonging her life in an attempt to sway her husband’s cold heart. Playwright Zimmerman is the renowned director and author behind plays such as “Journey to the West,” “Metamorphoses,” “Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci,” “Secret in the Wings,” and “Argonautika.” She was the recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship in 1998, and the winner of a Tony Award for Best Direction in 2002 for her work on “Metamorphoses.” Her adaptation of “The Arabian Nights” was completed in 1992, earning her a nomination in 1994 for a Drama Desk Award (Outstanding Director of a Play). Tickets can be purchased from the Indian Wells Theater box office by calling
(760) 341-6909 or online at www.IWTheater.com. Tickets are $6 for students; $12 for faculty, staff, senior citizens and military; $15 for general admission. Parking is included in the ticket price. The Indian Wells Theater is located at 37-500 Cook St., in Palm Desert. Located in beautiful Palm Desert, the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus offers bachelor and master’s degrees, a doctorate degree in educational leadership, and teacher credentials and certificates. With more than 1,200 students, it is the only four-year public university in the Coachella Valley and plays a vital role in educating and training the region’s growing population.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 17
Special Event
The Dinah
entertainment line-up
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lub Skirts has revealed its entertainment line-up for The Dinah 2016.
The Palm Springs-based all girl party and music festival will again take place over the span of Five-days (March 30 through April 3) at the Hilton Hotel, the Palm Springs Convention Center and Zelda’s Nightclub. Celebrating 26 years as the largest lesbian event in the world, Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend delivers yet again another roof-raising celebration with a steamin’ hot lineup that will most definitely blow the lid off the sunny oasis! “We have put together the most exciting Dinah line up ever. If I could only pick one Dinah to attend, it would be this year. I’m really happy how things came together. Everyone we asked said yes, and as a result we have the most starstudded, talented Dinah ever! 26 years and we’re better than ever, thanks to our customers and to the amazing talent who see this event as a must do. It’s going to be a supreme year,” says Mariah Hanson, founder and promoter of The Dinah. The stellar entertainment roster is led by a strong and diverse presence of awesome female artists including two-time Grammy nominee Elle King, (Friday, April 1 at the Palm Springs Convention Center at 8 p.m), Orange is the New Black stars DJ Taryn Manning (Wet & Wild Party on Sunday, April 3 at the Hilton Hotel at 3 p.m.) and comedian Lea DeLaria ( Comedy Show on Saturday, April 2 at 8 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center), celebrity DJs Samantha Ronson (The Hollywood Party, 9 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center), L Word iconic star, Kate Moennig and UH HUH HER’s lead singer Camila Grey (who together form The X-Names, will be performing at the Cabana Pool Party at the Hilton Hotel at 4 p.m.), international top model Madison Paige (Wet & Wild Party, Sunday, April 3 at the Hilton at 11 a.m.),
Elle King and one of the most exciting figures of today’s rap scene, Angel Haze ( The Hollywood Party, Saturday, April 2 at the Palm Springs Convention Center at 11 p.m.). They’ll be joined by pop newcomer JoLivi and the all-female power pop/ punk band and The Real L Word Season three cast members, Hunter Valentine who will perform their farewell show on Friday, April 1 at the Hilton Hotel, 5:30 p.m. – their scheduled last stop – to thank the fans for one hell of an amazing ride. If that weren’t hot enough, did we mention the “Hot as L” party, one of the Dinah Shore Weekend’s signature events? Bringing back the magic of Showtime’s hugely popular lesbian drama series and reality TV show, The L Word & The Real L Word, “Hot as L” will feature some of our community’s most beloved and popular stars including Elizabeth Keener, Clementine Ford and Tracy Reyerson. Bringing back the magic of Showtime’s hugely popular lesbian drama series and reality TV show, The L Word & The Real L Word, “Hot as L” will feature some of our
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Special Event
DJ Taryn Manning
Lea Delaria
community’s most beloved and popular stars including Elizabeth Keener, Clementine Ford and Tracy Reyerson.
Entertainment line-up. This will mark the first time the beloved ladies who together form The X-Names, will team up to showcase their spinning skills.
It will be a weekend of high-energy performances and premieres whether singing in front of a mic or spinning records behind the turntables. World famous cover girl and super model Madison Paige is set to debut her music career at the epic lesbian event this spring. This year the Dinah is putting an extra focus on trail-blazing female DJs with a diverse group of high-profile talent all bringing something different to the decks. Taryn Manning, international DJ, musician and star of the Netflix hit original series Orange is the New Black, is undeniably a go-to favorite of the entertainment industry. Whether on screen, behind a mic or putting the needle on the record or on a piece of fabric, this triple threat does it all and does it impressively well. With an exceptional ear for music, DJ Taryn Manning has emerged as the club scene’s golden child. Manning has booked gigs including high profiled events such as House of Hype’s Sundance and Coachella parties, Rock The Vote Friends and Family Grammy Party, and Richard Bransons Rock The Casbah, to name a few. Joining her are Camila Grey and Kate Moennig slated to bring their trademark tomboyish style, sexy swagger and killer turntables to the Dinah, adding their names to an already phenomenal 2016
What started as “dabbling” for this electrifying pair quickly spiraled into a DJ partnership that has been successful beyond anything they both could have ever imagined. Now together X-Names – who spin a blend of Indy, Deep House, Darkwave, Nuwave, Nowave, Electro, Disco, HipHop, 70’s and 80’s – travel the world to play a variety of clubs and parties entertaining A-List clients such Stella McCartney and Amour Vert, to name a few. The official closing party of the Dinah includes a performance by Jolivi at 11 p.m. at Zelda’s Nightclub on Sunday, April 3. These community icons are about to pack the Dinah dance floor with high voltage vibes taking the epic all-girl party to a whole new zenith. The five-day world-renown weekend is already making a lot of noise and is well on its way to be the most EPIC Dinah ever … you’d never seen anything like it yet! For more information including event schedules, performance times or to purchase tickets visit, www.thedinah.com.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 19
AMERICAN AJ’s on the Green 36-200 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com The Grill on Main 78-065 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 777-7773 www.thegrillonmainlq.com Jem Steakhouse at Spotlight 29 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella (760) 775-5566 www.spotlight29.com La Rue Wine Bar 78-015 Main St., Suite 109, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com Rick’s Restaurant & Bakery 1937 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 416-0090 www.ricksrestaurant.biz Solanos Bistro 78-075 Main St., Suite 105, La Quinta (760) 771-6655 www.solanosbistro.com The Palm House 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
Rick’s Desert Grill 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 325-2127 www.ricksrestaurant.biz Goody’s Cafe 72246 Varner Rd., Thousand Palms (760) 343-7710 www.goodyscafe.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe 45100 Club Dr., Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com La Quinta Cliffhouse 78-250 Highway 111 760-360-5991 www.laquintacliffhouse.com
ITALIAN Riccio’s Steak and Seafood 495 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-3111 www.ricciossteakandseafood.com Alberto’s Ristorante 71-416 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage (760) 346-3221 www.albertos-ristorante.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill 265 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 777-9989 www.stuftpizzabarandgrill.com
Trilussa Ristorante 68-718 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Woody’s Burgers 317 N. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
Nicolino’s Italian Restaurant 35-325 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 324-0411 www.nicolinos.com
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Sizzling fajitas agave at Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill Villagio Italian Kitchen 37-029 Cook Street, Palm Desert (760) 779-5050 www.pizzariavillagio.com
MEXICAN El Ranchito 78-039 Calle Estado, La Quinta (760) 564-0061 El Mexicali Cafe II 43-430 Monroe Street, Indio (760) 342-2333 www.elmexicalicafe2.com Las Casuelas Terraza 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-2794 www.lascasuelas.com Tortillas Restaurant 32-123 Cathedral Canyon Drive, Cathedral City (760) 324-8070 www.trilussarestaurant.com Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill 73325 Highway 111, Palm Desert (760) 836-9028 freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com
INDIAN Monsoon Indian Cuisine 555 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs (760) 325-2700 www.monsoonindiancuisine.com India Oven 35-875 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 770-3918 www.india-oven.com
SEAFOOD Pacifica Seafood Restaurant 73-505 El Paseo, Palm Desert (760) 674-8666 www.pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com Fisherman’s Market and Grill www.fishermans.com 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 327-1766 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6533 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601
www.desertentertainer.com
Entertainment
American Documentary Film Festival announces schedule
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he American Documentary Film Festival and Film Fund (AmDocs), which runs March 30 through April 4, has announced the complete schedule for its fifth anniversary edition. “We are screening 150 films this year from more than 35 countries,” said Ted Grouya, AmDocs Founder and Festival Director. “Our Opening Night Film, Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru, by Academy Award-nominated Filmmaker, Joe Berlinger, sets the scene for what will be an exciting and diverse festival, with an award-winning collection of story-driven documentaries focusing on the arts, the environment, sustainable living, senior issues, LGBT causes and more.” Three additional films by filmmaker, Joe Berlinger, who is receiving the Seeing The Bigger Picture Award, will be screened during the course of the festival, including Brother’s Keeper, Whitey: United States of America v. James J. Bulger, and Under African Skies. “I am particularly excited for our audiences to see these films,” Grouya continued, “because they are all illustrative of very different cultures from our own. Not only that, the stories themselves represent a kind of storytelling, and filmmaking, that we rarely get to see in the United States.” As it has in past years, AmDocs 2016 brings together a tremendous variety of documentaries. Many of them address immigration, reflecting the conversations about immigration that are occurring in national politics, and all over the world today. One film in particular, 50 Feet from Syria, provides an unflinching look at how Doctors from all over the world are helping injured refugees on the front lines of the Syrian conflict as they
Opening night film “Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru” attempt to cross over into Turkey. Another, Anija, Kosovo, includes dramatic archival coverage of the mass exodus of people from Albania to Italy in the ‘90s. Other common themes at AmDocs 2016 include particularly creative documentaries on aging, people living with disabilities, homelessness, mental illness, the independent music scene, the environment, the arts and more. There’s even a special focus on Swiss films on Friday, April 1, sponsored and hosted by The Honorable, Consul General of Switzerland, Jean Francois Lichtenstern. With films to suit practically any interest, The American Documentary Film Festival and Film Fund (AmDocs) will excite, educate and entertain audiences. To see the complete schedule, visit americandocumentaryfilmfestival.com. For a complete schedule or for tickets and passes to the American Documentary Film Festival visit, www.americandocumentaryfilmfestival.com or at the Camelot Theatres Box Office located at 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 21
Film Review
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice superhero smackdown By Neil Pond
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n this corner, Gotham’s grim reaper—the Dark Knight! Opposite him, in blue tights and red shorts—the Kryptonion clobberer! Two of pop culture’s most iconic superheroes face off in the year’s first comicbook-inspired double bill, director Zack Snyder’s meaty, muscular epic in which Henry Cavill reprises his Superman role from Man of Steel (2013) and Ben Affleck
capably becomes the latest actor to answer the big-screen Bat-Signal. But why are two “good guys” fighting each other? What has brought them to this? In this worlds-collide combo platter, people have mostly learned to put up with Batman’s fly-by-night vigilante crime fighting, even though he seems to care even less about “due process” than ever (especially when dealing with scumbags like human traffickers). With Superman, on the other hand, the honeymoon is over. People know he swoops in and saves people—but they’ve begun to question the heavy toll of his heroics, the death and destruction that often follow in his sonic-boom wake. And they’re worried about his true motives, his “alien” status (he did come from another planet, after all) and what he could do with all that power if he ever decided to use it against them. Even Batman, and his billionaire/socialite/playboy alter ego, Bruce Wayne, thinks we’d be better off without Superman. Spurred by a dastardly plot twist, an even bigger crisis and a rising global tide of public opinion, the fight, as they say, is on. Jesse Eisenberg has a fidgety ball as Lex Luthor, a refreshingly younger version of
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Starring: Ben Affleck & Henry Cavill Directed by Zack Snyder Rated: PG-13 Theaters: UltraStar Mary Pickford, Regal Cinemas Rancho Mirage Stadium 16, Cinémas Palm D’Or, Regal Cinemas Indio Metro 8 & Regal Palm Springs Stadium 9, Century Theatres La Quinta.
22 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Ben Affleck as Batman and Henry Cavill as Superman in Zack Snyder’s “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” the iconic DC über-villain and perennial pot-stirrer. Amy Adams returns as Daily Planet star reporter Lois Lane, Superman/ Clark Kent’s love interest (their bathtub scene is surely one of the sexiest rub-a-dub moments in any superhero flick). Holly Hunter is a U.S. senator who supports the Man of Steel. Jeremy Irons is the “new” Alfred, Bruce Wayne’s hi-tech butler.
at least it’s not all crash-boom-bam. The solid script by Chris Terrio and David S. Goyer often steers into think-tank territory, about gods and demons, politics and paranoia, and Synder (who directed Man of Steel and also steered Sucker Punch, 300 and Watchmen) pumps up the religious allegory and symbolism that have always been part of the Superman mythos.
Gal Godot, from the Fast & Furious franchise, debuts as Wonder Woman in a blatant plug for future DC movies, including her own spinoff (next summer) and two Justice League flicks stretching into 2019. (You’ll also see quick cameos by a couple of other new, upcoming DC characters.) Anderson Cooper, Soledad O’Brien, Nancy Grace, Charlie Rose and Neil deGrasse Tyson play themselves, as talking heads talking about Superman.
And of course, there’s the Big Event itself, the “greatest gladiator match in the history of the world,” as Lex Luthor calls it, the sprawling slugfest when the Bat and the Son of Krypton actually come to blows—before their superhero smackdown is eclipsed by an even bigger call to arms. It’s big, all right, epic and operatic. Who wins? I certainly won’t spoil it.
It’s long (two and a half hours), jampacked, sometimes overly so, mostly humorless and generally a bit grim. But
Except to say the real winners will be viewers who keep eyes totally glued to the screen for the split second just before the screen goes dark and the credits roll.
www.desertentertainer.com
Nightlife
Nightlife
March 31 thru April 6 Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill The Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Solano’s Bistro Live music from 6 to 9 p.m. 78-075 Main St, La Quinta (760) 771-6655 www.solanosbistro.com Spotlight 29 Casino DJ at Blue Bar, 8 p.m. DJ at Groove, 7 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com
John Stanley King band at Vicky’s of Santa Fe Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s entertainment.
THURSDAY - 3/31 AJ’s on the Green Jazz Trio with Francesca Amari, Bill Marx & Doug MacDonald, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Frank Disalvo from 6 to 9 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com La Rue Wine Bar Entertainment at 6:45 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
www.desertentertainer.com
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Smooth Brothers, 7 p.m. to closing 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe The band Flyer from 4 to 6 p.m. Carolyn Martinez & Trio, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com Woody’s Burgers Laurie Morvan Band at 6:30 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
FRIDAY - 4/1 AJ’s on the Green The Gilmore and Bryan Show, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City
(760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com The Grill on Main Entertainment at 9 p.m. 78-065 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 777-7773 www.thegrillonmainlq.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Frank Disalvo from 6 to 9 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com La Rue Wine Bar Entertainment at 6:45 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com
Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius and Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Meet the Corwins from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. John Stanley King & A Band of Four 8 p.m. to Midnight 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com Woody’s Burgers Rose Mallett Trio at 6:30 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
SATURDAY - 4/2 AJ’s on the Green Cabaret Open Mic with Les Michaels and Wayne Abravanel, 7:30 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 23
Nightlife SATURDAY - 4/2 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com The Grill on Main Entertainment at 9 p.m. 78-065 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 777-7773 www.thegrillonmainlq.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Frank Disalvo from 6 to 9 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com La Rue Wine Bar Entertainment at 6:45 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com Las Casuelas Terraza Palm Spring Sound Company 1 to 5 p.m. 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 325-2794 www.lascasuelas.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Spotlight 29 Casino DJ at the Blue Bar, 8 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe The Carmens, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com Woody’s Burgers Stanley Butler Band at 6:30 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
SUNDAY - 4/3 AJ’s on the Green Keisha D, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Ted Herman Big Band at 6 to 8 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com Las Casuelas Terraza Palm Spring Sound Company at 12 p.m. 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 325-2794 www.lascasuelas.com The Palm House Jazz Jam with David Ring Trio, 5 to 9 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com Three-Sixty North Bar and Grill The Chris Gore Group Pro Jam, 7 p.m. 360 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 327-1773 www.threesixtynorth.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Burgers Smooth Brothers at 6 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe John Stanley King & Trio, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com
24 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Nightlife MONDAY - 4/4 AJ’s on the Green Piano Bar with Bill Marx from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Larry Capeloto, 6 to 9 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com The Palm House David Ring Jazz, 6 to 10 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Solano’s Bistro Live music from 6 to 9 p.m. 78-075 Main St, La Quinta (760) 771-6655 www.solanosbistro.com Woody’s Burgers Trish Hatley & Barney McClure at 6 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
TUESDAY - 4/5 AJ’s on the Green Tommy Dodson from 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Terri Olsen and Michael D’Angelo, 6 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com The Palm House Peter Curtis Henry Franklin, 6 to 10 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Mike Costly & Trio from 6:30 to 10 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com Woody’s Burgers John Bolivar and Barney McClure, 6 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com
WEDNESDAY - 4/6
INDIAN WELLS
COACHELLA
Vineyard Lounge, Miramonte Resort and Spa, 45-000 Indian Wells Lane. (760) 3341-2200. Drink and appetizer specials, Thursday 5-8 p.m.
Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place. (760) 775-5566. Happy hour at the Hot Spot inside Spotlight 29 from 2 - 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to closing.
Agave Sunset at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, 44600 Indian Wells Lane. (760) 3411000. Daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m.
PALM SPRINGS
AJ’s on the Green Jazz Jam with Shelley Yoelin Jazz group from 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe, 45-100 Club Dr. (760) 345-9770, www.vickysofsantafe.com. Happy Hour, Wednesday thru Sunday, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Indian Wells Resort Hotel Rich Bono & Poupee Boccaccio, 6 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com
Fresh Agave , 73325 Highway 111. (760) 836-9028. Daily, 3-5 p.m.
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Solano’s Bistro Live music from 6 to 9 p.m. 78-075 Main St, La Quinta (760) 771-6655 www.solanosbistro.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Lizann Warner from 6:30 to 10 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells (760) 345-9770 www.vickysofsantafe.com Woody’s Burgers Deanna Bogart at 6:30 p.m. 317 North Indian Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com Venues and entertainers: Please email information at least two weeks in advance to news@desertentertainer.com
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 25
PALM DESERT Pacifica Seafood Restaurant, 73505 El Paseo, (760) 674-8666, www. pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com. Daily happy hour, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday, 3 p.m. to closing.
LA QUINTA Fisherman’s Market & Grill, 78575 Highway 111. (760) 777-1601. Happy hour: Monday - Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. Late night happy hour 8 p.m. to close. All day Sunday. La Quinta Cliffhouse, 78-250 Highway 111, (760) 3605991, www.laquintacliffhouse.com. Daily happy hour, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. All day Sunday. Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, 78015 Main St Ste 100. (760) 777-9989, www. stuftpizzabarandgrill.com. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m.
Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill ,235 S. Indian Canyon Dr. (760) 322-9293. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. All day Sunday. 8 p.m. to closing happy hour. Rick’s Desert Grill, 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr. (760) 325-2127. Daily happy hour, 3-10 p.m. all day Monday. Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill, 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 320-8041. Daily happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m. Woody’s Burgers, 317 North Indian Canyon Drive. (760) 230-0188. Daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Las Casulas Terraza, 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr., (760) 325-2794. Monday - Friday happy hour, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
CATHEDRAL CITY Trilussa Ristorante, 68-718 East Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 328-2300. Daily happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Bar area only. AJ’s on the Green, 36-200 Date Palm Drive, inside Date Palm Country Club. (760) 202-111. Daily happy hour, 2 to 7 p.m., 9 to close in bar and lounge.
Dining
Date Night
at JEM Steakhouse inside Spotlight 29 Casino
S
potlight 29 Casino is pleased to announce that JEM Steakhouse now offers a “Date Night” prix fixe menu every Wednesday and Thursday for all couples to enjoy! The delicious three-course menu is only $59 for two people. Additionally, guests can complete their dinner with 50% off select bottles of wine every evening at JEM Steakhouse. Reservations can be made by calling: (760) 775-2880 or online at www.Spotlight29.com. JEM Steakhouse boasts a romantic ambiance, making it the perfect setting to experience dinner with your loved one or celebrate a fun occasion. To start, guests will have the choice between a fresh and crisp Caesar Salad or decadent Lobster
Bisque. The second course presents four entrees to choose from, including 12 oz. Rib Eye Steak served with Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables and Mashed Potatoes, Fettuccine Alfredo served with Chicken, Wild Mushrooms, Asparagus and Garlic Bread, Chicken Breast stuffed with Spinach, Bacon, Mushrooms and Mozzarella served with Sautéed Asparagus and Mashed Potatoes, or Cajun-Style Wild Salmon served with Lyonnaise Potatoes, Sautéed Asparagus and topped with a Mango and Papaya Salsa. Guests can then complete their dinner with a tempting dessert like divine New York Cheesecake or a rich and creamy Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. Guests can also take advantage of JEM Steakhouse’s 50% off bottles of wine se-
lections, including: • Byrant Family, Napa Family, 2003 • Opus One, Napa Valley, 2001, 2003 and 2004 • Grgich Hills Estate “Yountville”, Napa Valley, 1995 and 2001 • Grgich Hills Estate, Napa Valley, 2001 • Paul Hobbs “Stagecoach”, Napa Valley, 2003 • Paul Hobbs, Napa Valley, 2003 and 2004 • Lewis Cellars “Cuvee L”, Napa Valley, 2000 • Lewis Cellars, Napa Valley, 2003 • Lewis Cellars “Reserve”, Napa Valley, 2004 and 2005 • Plump Jack “Reserve” Oakville, Napa Valley, 2000 • Plump Jack “Estate” Oakville, Napa Valley, 2005 • And many more JEM Steakhouse also has an extensive cocktail menu and additional impressive wine selections to complement every meal. JEM Steakhouse is open Wednesday through Sunday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling: (760) 7752880 or online at www.spotlight29.com.
26 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
www.desertentertainer.com
On Stage
‘Sugar’
at Palm Canyon Theatre
Hiking & Biking Trails Hiking Palm Springs
Hiking La Quinta
Andreas Canyon Trail
Boo Hoff Trail to Lake
Tahquitz Canyon
Cahuilla Loop
Palm Springs Art Museum Trail
For directions, maps and information visit www.playinlaquinta.com.
Murray Canyon Trail Araby Trail South Lykken Trail North Lykken Trail For directions, maps and information visit www.visitpalmsprings.com.
Hiking Rancho Mirage Bighorn Overlook Trail Butler-Abrams Trail Chuckwalla Trail Clancy Lane Trail
“Sugar” is based on the “Some Like it Hot” screenplay
P
alm Springs loves Marilyn Monroe! And, for fans still missing her flowing white gown in downtown, a glimpse of the star can be spotted at Palm Canyon Theatre – well, sort of. The sultry songstress, Sugar Kane, made famous by Monroe, will take to the stage in Sugar, running March 31-April 3. Seasoned actress and managing producer of Palm Canyon Theatre, Se Layne, will reprise the Sugar Kane role from the 1929 movie Some Like it Hot in the musical version, Sugar. Premiering on Broadway in 1972, Sugar was written by Peter Stone, with music by Jule Styne, and lyrics by Bob Merrill. The witty story goes like this: Two unemployed musicians, Jerry, played by Ben Reese, and Joe, played by Allen Jenkins, witness the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago. In order to escape mob boss Spats Palazzo, played by Matt Sambrano, and his henchmen, the two men dress as women and join an all female band led by Sweet Sue, played by Marcia Harp. Complications arise when Joe, now known as Josephine, falls in love with the band’s beautiful singer, Sugar Kane, who has some issues with relationships. Sugar is obsessed with the idea of marrying a millionaire, prompting Joe to disguise himself as the man of her dreams.
Meanwhile, the elderly and wealthy Osgood Fielding, Jr., Don Cilluffo, is pursuing Daphne, unaware she is actually Jerry in drag. Although Jerry is beginning to enjoy all the attention and expensive gifts from Fielding, he believes he must reveal his true gender to his doting suitor. If these shenanigans aren’t enough, re-enter mob boss Spatz and his gang as they discover who Josephine and Daphne really are. Additional cast include PCT company members Ron Coranado, Steven Lee, Bianca Collins, Allegra De Angelo, Jaque La Blanqe, Jose Espareze. Sugar is directed by William “Bill” Layne with musical direction by Steven Smith. Sugar runs weekends through Sunday, April 3. Show times are 7 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32-$36. Student tickets are $15, with valid ID; student tickets must be purchased at the Box Office. For tickets, call the Palm Canyon Theatre Box Office at (760) 323-5123 or order online, www.PalmCanyonTheatre. org. The Palm Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, at the corner of Alejo Road and Palm Canyon Drive, across from Koffi inside The Corridor. Box Office hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call (760) 323-5123.
March 31 - April 6, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 27
Jack Rabbit Trail Road Runner Trail For directions, maps and information visit www.ranchomirageca.gov.
Hiking Palm Desert Hopalong Cassidy Trail
Biking Palm Springs Las Palmas Loop Downtown Loop Citywide Loop Tahquitz Creek Loop Deepwelll Loop Canyon Country Club Loop Gene Autry Bikeway Whitewater Trail For directions, maps and information visit www.visitpalmsprings.com.
Biking La Quinta Bear Creek Trailhead Cove Oasis Trailhead Fritz Burns Park
Randall Henderson Trail
Fred Wolff Bear Creek Nature Preserve
Herb Jeffries Trail
La Quinta Library
For directions, maps and information visit www.cityofpalmdesert.org
La Quinta Park Sports Complex
Hiking La Quinta
Boys and Girls Club
Bear Creek Trailhead to Cave, Cave to Palm Oasis
For directions, maps and information visit www.playinlaquinta.com.
Cove to Lake Cahuilla
PEP Talk
Mildred L. Browne among the pioneers By Janie Hughes For Desert Entertainer
Mildred (Millie) L. Browne followed in the footsteps of her courageous mother, Elizabeth Pete . . . literally from the Coachella Valley to Washington DC, and across the United States to other Native reservations. Millie continues to serve on committees involving the history Janie of the Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Hughes Indians and holds the position as Vice Chairwoman on the
Tribal Council that her mother instituted as the first all woman Tribal Council in the Coachella Valley. These women lobbied Congress to establish the 99 year leases the City of Palm Springs and the tribe share today. Millie eloquently stated “the job of the Tribal Council is to work out the relationships with the Government and Bureaus on issues such as land use and water rights and to develop our commercial existence to support our people. We are still struggling to develop our commercial existence for the next generation. The assimilation of the Native people has been a challenge since they were pushed off their farms and into reservations, isolated from the progressive society and benefits of commercial growth and education. The Coachella
Valley in the ‘50s offered opportunity for the tribe when visitors from Hollywood and people suffering from emphysema and other maladies came here seeking the healing hot mineral waters that is found on our land”. Millie, as she is affectionately known, recently received the Golden Palm Award and was presented with Star #393 on the sidewalk in front of the Aqua Caliente Cultural Museum - a Smithsonian Institution affiliate. Her dedication as a Leader/Elder of the tribe and her success in establishing the Museum in 1991, has earned her the Star that has been placed among the other Pioneers, Founders, and Community Leaders in downtown Palm Springs. She grew up in Palm Springs attending St. Theresa’s School, Nellie Coffman Junior High, an Alumni of Palm Springs High School and attended College of the Desert. The Coachella Valley residents and visitors enjoy many events sponsored by the Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians: the downtown Cultural Museum, the annual Dinner in The Canyons, Native Book Talks and Bird Songs and The Dance Festival. The annual Native Filmfest is attended by visitors and contributors worldwide with films by and about and starring Native Americans and other Indigenous people. Millie has been active in the success of all the cultural and historical development of Palm Springs that has brought international recognition to the Coachella Valley and the contribution of the Native Americans - Millie’s feeling on the generosity of the tribe to the people who visit Palm Springs and to the community is “giving back is part of our culture, and when we give to the community we are fixing our own house. This is still our reservation and we are here to stay. Through our museums, film festival and other cultural events we are educating all races and cultures about the valuable history of our Country. We continue through this exposure to develop the Native American people and teach them to take their culture and their heritage with them to share with future generations.”
28 | Desert Entertainer | March 31 - April 6, 2016
Millie is working on the Section 14 development project in the historical downtown Palm Springs, that is owned by the Aqua Caliente Tribe, and her experience as a leader of the Heritage Committee and her years of service on the Board of Directors of the Palm Springs Art Museum and Chair person on the Building Committee will be a valuable asset as she spearheads the 110,000 square foot museum that is scheduled in the multi-purpose plans. The construction taking place on this 640 acres is considered by the tribe to be their most valuable piece of real estate. The master plan for the city and the tribe is envisioned to be an extension of the downtown tourism corridor from Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon along Tahquitz Canyon Drive. The architect for the Museum is John Paul Jones of Seattle, and the design and structure is patterned from the Cahuilla native basket. The museum will consist of a permanent exhibit, a changing exhibit, an amphitheater, a research center/library on the Cahuilla Indians history, and a restaurant. There will be an area for events, weddings, and other ceremonies. The construction of the building takes into consideration the alignment that adheres to native tradition - the entrance and the placement of the structure on the property. We are looking forward to an announcement later this year that will provide the time line for the completion of the Museum that will be part of the downtown Section14 redevelopment project.
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