Contents
Monthly
Cindy Melland Publisher
Kimberly Brucks Advertising Manager kbrucks@desertentertainer.com
Jose De La Cruz Senior Graphic Designer ads@desertentertainer.com News news@desertentertainer.com P.8
Foodies Come Hither
Photo courtesy of Nature’s Health Food & Cafe
Advertising
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kbrucks@desertentertainer.com
We’ve Got You Covered
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Contributing Writers Alison Elsner
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Distribution 8
“Tennis Paradise” Returns 42
to Ahkto Distribution at 760-459-4204 or distribution@ahkto.com
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Foodies Come Hither
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Attractions There’s no shortage of things to do. Check out this list of local attractions.
Things To Do
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Calendar of events and performances. 760-820-2610 or 760-365-3315
Curtain Time Discover where the curtains will rise this month.
Delve into our roundup of some of the valley’s best dining venues.
All delivery inquiries should be directed
Club Scene Dance the night away with your guide to the nightclub scene in the desert.
Fine dining, live entertainment and trendy shopping complement two weeks of championship tennis at the BNP Paribas Open.
Gary Walker
It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere A full listing of outstanding happy hours.
“Chicago,” Daryl Hall & John Oates, Pink Martini with China Forbes and Storm Larg and Indian Wells Arts Festival highlight this fun-packed March.
Hiking Places to stretch your legs.
Nightlife Browse listings of the area’s most vibrant hotspots and make your evenings memorable.
news@desertentertainer.com
Entertainment and events sometimes change after press deadline. Please check with venues to confirm the date and times.
Photo by Desert Theatreworks
or story ideas should be sent to
Photo courtesy of Fashion Week El Paseo
News, photos, editorial submissions “The Producers”
desertentertainer.com
Titles registered and all contents copyrighted
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Things To Do
P.42
Curtain Time
2020 by the Hi-Desert Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
March 2020
Cover Photos: “Chicago” photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre. Pink Martini photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre. Daryl Hall & John Oates photo courtesy of Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Indian Wells Arts Festival photo courtesy of Indian Wells Arts Festival.
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Cover feature Photos courtesy of McCallum Theatre
‘Chicago The Musical’
Delivers plenty of razzle-dazzle and ‘All That Jazz’ By Alison Elsner
“Chicago” 2, 7:30 and 8 p.m. March 13-15 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert 760-340-2787 mccallumtheatre.com chicagothemusical.com
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here’s never been a better time to experience “Chicago,” Broadway’s razzle-dazzle smash. This triumphant hit musical is the recipient of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy, thousands of standing ovations and now the No. 1 longest-running American musical in Broadway history. The stage show features music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and book by Ebb and Bob Fosse. “Chicago” has everything that makes Broadway great: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, one show-stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing ever. It’s no surprise that the production has wowed audiences around the world, having been made into a film which became the
recipient of an Academy Award in 2002 for Best Picture. The 1996 Broadway production holds the record as the longestrunning musical revival and the longest-running American musical in Broadway history. It’s the second longest-running show to ever run on Broadway, behind only “The Phantom of the Opera.” Set in Chicago in the jazz age, the musical is based on a 1926 play of the same name by reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins about real-life criminals and the crimes on which she reported. The story is a satire on corruption in the administration of criminal justice and the concept of the “celebrity criminal.” The original Broadway production opened in 1975 at the 46th
Street Theatre and ran for 936 performances, until 1977. Bob Fosse choreographed the original production, and his unique style remains part of the identity of the show. It debuted in London’s West End in 1979, where it ran for 600 performances. The musical was revived on Broadway in 1996 and a year later in the West End. “Chicago” surpassed “Cats” on November 23, 2014, when it played its 7,486th performance. Favorite songs include “All That Jazz,” “When You’re Good to Mama,” “We Both Reached for the Gun” and “Mr. Cellophane.” Now the show is here in the desert, giving audiences the chance to recapture the magic or experience something spectacular for the first time.
March 2020
Cover Pink Martini takes the stage for the perfect ‘Storm’ of global fusion and sizzling swing By Alison Elsner Pink Martini Featuring Singers China Forbes and Storm Large 2 p.m., 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday March 4-8 Tickets $98, $188 and $58 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert 760-340-2787 mccallumtheatre.com pinkmartini.com
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andleader and pianist Thomas Lauderdale has said, “If the United Nations had a house band in 1962, Pink Martini would be that band.” A little bit Brazilian samba, some Italian folk, a fair amount of Cuban dance and plenty of Parisian café music combine to bring inspiration from around the world, covering classical, jazz and pop. The diverse repertoire is influenced by Cole Porter and Duke Ellington, Tito Puente and Xavier Cugat as well as Argentine tango and Hollywood musicals of the 1940s and ’50s. Pink Martini featuring China Forbes and Storm Large blends
genres from cool standards to hot swing with style to burn. Originally from Portland, Oregon, the band has played with more than 50 orchestras around the world. Their debut album, “Sympathique,” was released in 1997 on the band’s own label Heinz Records (named after band leader Lauderdale’s dog), and they quickly became an international phenomenon. Today, all five of their albums have gone gold in France, Canada, Greece and Turkey. Treat yourself to this unique brand of global fusion, and we guarantee you’ll leave with a jazzy spring to your step.
Photo courtesy of McCallum Theatre
Living legends Daryl Hall & John Oates live in concert By Alison Elsner Daryl Hall & John Oates 8 p.m. Saturday, March 21 Tickets $169, $139, $99 and $79 Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy Indio 800-827-2946 fantasyspringsresort.com
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he number one-selling duo in music history will rock the house with chart-topping hits like “Sara Smile,” “She’s Gone,” “Rich Girl,” “Kiss on My List,” “Private Eyes,” “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do),” “Maneater,” “You Make My Dreams,” “Out of Touch” and so many others. Their albums have sold an estimated 40 million records, and the pair remains popular for their mix of rock, soul, rhythm and blues, new wave and power pop. Billboard magazine named them the most successful duo of the rock era, surpassing
Simon & Garfunkel and The Everly Brothers. In 2003, Hall and Oates were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Billboard” magazine had Hall and Oates at No. 15 on their list of the 100 greatest artists of all time and the No. 1 duo, while VH1 placed the duo as No. 99 on their list of the 100 greatest artists of all time. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April 2014, and on September 2, 2016, they received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is a “can’t miss” chance to see these living legends live on stage.
Photo courtesy of Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Indian Wells Arts Festival in full bloom with expansive showcase of art By Alison Elsner Indian Wells Arts Festival 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday April 3-5 Tickets $13 adults Children 12 & under free Free parking Valet available Indian Wells Tennis Garden 78200 Miles Avenue Indian Wells 760-346-0042 indianwellsartsfestival.com
March 2020
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o matter what your preferred artistic medium, you will find it on exhibit here, inviting you to browse as well as buy. The 18th annual Festival might be compared to a vibrant blossom, revealing a new and excitingly unexpected nuance each year at this artisan village and festive outdoor marketplace. Approximately 200 jury-selected artists will present works across 30 mediums ranging from hand blown glass forged with precious gems and minerals to masterful brushstrokes memorializing the wondrous beauty of nature, representing accolades from more than 60 renowned art
museums and institutions. Ranked a Top 30 Fine Art Show in the nation, the festival is the chance to connect with established artists and discover rising stars in the art world from around the globe. Artists’ installations will be complemented by live music and artist demonstrations including textile weaving, painting and sculpting. Attendees can look forward to foodies’ delights under a shaded open-air pavilion and effervescent spirits at the Champagne Circle Bar. Kids will be part of the action, too, with sidewalk chalk drawing and creative activities for all ages. Now this is living.
Photo courtesy of Indian Wells Arts Festival
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“ACE”
‘Tennis Paradise’ returns
Fine dining, live entertainment and trendy shopping complement two weeks of championship tennis at the BNP Paribas Open By Alison Elsner
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he Coachella Valley has come to be known as tennis territory with the annual return of the BNP Paribas Open in March. It’s the largest two-week combined ATP and WTA Premier Mandatory professional tennis tournament in the world outside of the four grand slams. All top 75 ranked WTA and ATP Tour singles players are included in the initial entry list. The sweet spot is made even more pronounced given the amenities of the upscale venue, including fine dining, casual eats, shopping, demos and presentations,
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contests and conveniently located al fresco cocktail patios. The Tennis Garden, built in 2000, has undergone extensive renovations thanks to owner Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle. Boasting 29 tennis courts, including the 16,100seat main Stadium 1, which is the second largest tennis-specific stadium in the world, the facility also includes an 8,000-seat Stadium 2. There’s a lot more going on inside the gates besides tennis, with five award winning restaurants including Nobu, Spago, Piero’s PizzaVino, Fresh Agave and The Sports Bar, overlooking the on-court action on Stadium 1 and 2 as well as two dozen concession and bar areas. Grab-and-go restaurants will include Baja Mex, Dave’s Doghouse, Cassell’s, Melissa’s Fresh, Sherman’s Deli and others. Most importantly, there is an ample supply of watering holes throughout the grounds serving both coffee drinks and cocktails, like Moët & Chandon Circle of Palms, Kim Crawford Wine Terrace and Courtyard Oasis.
Other activities include Kids’ Day, Autograph Signings, Tennis Talk at the Village Stage and live entertainment. Past winners and finalists have included Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Martina Hingis. In 2019, two first-time winners took the crown with Austrian Dominic Thiem beating Switzerland’s Roger Federer and Canada’s Bianca Andreescu winning out over Germany’s Angelique Kerber. Fans are anxious to see who will capture the $1,354,010 purse given to each singles winner in 2020. Whether strolling the grounds, enjoying a drink or lunch, shopping or catching championship tennis, this is the place to be and be seen. Tickets $20-$1,085. Indian Wells Tennis Garden is located at 78200 Miles Avenue in Indian Wells. For more information, tickets and schedule, visit bnpparibasopen.com. Photo of Bianca Andreescu courtesy of BNP Paribas Open
March 2020
Dining feature
Photo courtesy of Nature’s Health Food & Café
Nature’s Health Food & Café A healthy hub to celebrate wellness By Alison Elsner
Nature’s Health Food & Café 555 S. Sunrise Way Palm Springs Open Daily Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 760-323-9487 natureshealthfoodcafe.com
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s Hippocrates said, “Let food be thy medicine; let medicine by thy food.” Wise words that make staying healthy one of the most enjoyable things you can do, especially when visiting Nature’s Health Food & Café. This combination of organic café and health food market have become a hub, attracting people who share the goal of good taste and commitment to wellness. Breakfast is fresh and delicious, offering organic egg omelets like spinach and feta, grain sausage, veggie and others ($9.95-$10.95). Vegan and vegetarian selections include tofu burrito, tofu or macha bowl, pancakes and eggs, “ham” and egg burrito and more ($6.95$10.95). Lunch features burgers such as lentil, Greek, blackened
“fish,” portobello and many more ($9.75-$10.95). Wraps are served in a spinach tortilla, with choices like garden, eggplant, braised tofu, artichoke, “bacon” and many others ($10.95 each). For an extra $1, gluten-free rice paper can be substituted for any wrap. The diverse menu doesn’t stop there. Sandwiches offer “turkey,” mock egg, veggie delight, classic baked cheese and even Philly “steak” ($7.75-$10.75). Salads are colorful and crunchy, with sprout, California “chicken,” Greek, taco, strawberry “bacon” and lots of others ($4.95-$10.95). Entrées are more than satisfying, serving tofu ranchera, pasta primavera, Chinese fried rice, “chicken” quesadilla, tempeh Hong Kong and more ($4.95$11.95). And don’t even think
about skipping the gluten free, flatbread pizzas in flavors like garden or cheesy mushroom ($8.95-$10.95). In the mood for something even lighter? The organic espresso bar is out of this world delicious, with menu items like Mexican mocha, caramel vanilla latte, chai tea latte and more, all with a choice of milk or dairy substitute milk: coconut, soy, almond, rice, hemp, oat, macadamia or hazelnut. The healthy drink menu covers kombucha on tap, freshly pressed juices, tonic elixirs, fruit smoothies, vegan shakes and wellness shots. This is also the place for purified or Kangen water. Nature’s Café likes to think of itself as your partner in navigating the twists and turns on your road to a healthier life. What a delicious journey it is.
March 2020
dining Al dente Trattoria takes cooking – and eating - seriously By Alison Elsner Al dente Trattoria 491 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Daily happy hour 3 to 5 p.m. 760-325-1160 aldentepalmsprings.com
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s any good chef knows, you always want to cook your pasta “al dente,” or firm to the bite. This charming establishment, owned by the Riccio family, takes those cooking instructions seriously. A quaint cucina with a decidedly European atmosphere, this valley favorite of 25 years features an extensive menu of pastas with homemade sauces, beef, veal and fresh seafood for lunch and dinner. Better yet, their flavorful cuisine can be savored while watching the world go by on Palm Canyon Drive amidst a panoply of patio bars, boutiques and even a theatre.
Antipasti includes selections like pepperoni arrostiti (roasted bell peppers with goat cheese, $13.75) or antipasto di gamberoni (jumbo shrimp on the grill, $14.75). Risotto is worth straying from the diet, featuring primavera or di porcini ($18.75-$24.75), and pastas include tastes like checca, al salmone, pesto, quatro formaggio and many others ($11.50-$24.75). A wide selection of entrees (secondi) like pollo parmigiana ($23.75), desserts (dolce) like limoncello truffle ($7.50) and house wines (vino) by the glass like pinot grigio ($9) will make you feel warm and welcome, like part of the family!
Photo courtesy of Al dente Trattoria
Le Basil whisks you and your tastebuds to southeast Asia By Alison Elsner Le Basil 72695 Highway 111 Palm Desert Open daily Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. 760-773-1112 lebasilrestaurant.com
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or the best in southeast Asian cuisine, Le Basil is a shining example of how the flavors, textures and colors of Thailand and Vietnam converge. Char-grill covers items like grilled salmon, Thai barbecue chicken and honey duck, and curries include rich flavors like Panang, chicken yellow and beef Massaman ($14.95-$22.95). Both lunch and dinner are served, with appetizers that include Vietnamese fresh or crispy rolls, vegetable tempura, Banh Xeo and Mi Krop ($9.95-$12.95). Noodles and rice are enticing, with menu options like pho, Lad Va noodles, Pad See You, Vietnamese vermicelli noodles or spicy, seafood and pineapple fried
rice ($9.95-$21.95). Seafood features garlic shrimps, seafood with basil and ginger fish ($18.95-$22.95), and meat and poultry selections include entrée dishes like pork simmered in caramel sauce, cashew chicken or beef, Bo Lulac (flank steak), orange chicken and Asian eggplant with choice of meat ($14.95-$19.95). Complemented by a side of steamed or stir-fried broccoli or brown rice and perhaps a serving of fresh whole young coconut, fresh lemonade or Vietnamese coffee ($2.75-$5.95), a visit to Le Basil will serve you well on your journey towards enlightenment. Photo courtesy of Le Basil
Wildest Restaurant + Bar: Great food, great drinks, great for you By Alison Elsner Wildest Restaurant + Bar 72990 El Paseo Palm Desert Open nightly 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Daily happy hour 2 to 5:30 p.m. 760-636-0441 wildestrestaurant.com
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ike a culinary and cultural phoenix rising, Wildest has reinvented itself. Previous owner of Wildest Greens, Denise DuBarry Hay, sadly passed away nearly a year ago. Continuing her legacy and commitment to innovative eating and living, the restaurant has been re-branded as a valley hotspot with renowned Chef Eric Wadlund proving he’s on fire in the kitchen. Menu options focus on cruelty-free wild-caught fish, local pasture-raised and grass-fed poultry and beef and tasty plant-based meals. Serving lunch, dinner and happy hour, appetizers include Shanghai shrimp and yellowtail crudo ($14-$19), and entrees feature
golden Maine lobster risotto and chile relleno ($13 and up). Salads, bowls and sandwiches include organic spinach power salad, Wildest plant-based burger and more ($12 and up). Desserts offer choices like wild magnum bar and chocolate naked cake ($12-$14). The wine and cocktail menu hits all the right notes, with craft infusions such as wild strawberry kombucha mojito, monkey jam sour and maple Manhattan ($12-$14 each). There’s also a complete selection of beer, wine and alcohol-free pours. Everything about Wildest reinforces the yin and yang of flavors and textures in an oh-so civilized way.
Photo courtesy of Wildest Restaurant + Bar
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Dining
Desert Dish Valley cuisine to relish Eight4Nine’s sourdough-crusted Chilean seabass with a dungeness crab-stuffed pepper, saffron aioli and greens.
Photo courtesy of Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge
Cathedral City Bubba’s Bone & Brews BBQ: Lunch and dinner. An American BBQ gastropub, where locals go to enjoy food, craft beers, spirits, wine and happy hour in a lively atmosphere. 68525 Ramon Road, Cathedral City. 760-699-7231, bubbasbonesandbrews.com. Hamachi Sushi Japanese: Lunch and dinner. Family-owned eatery serving classic and creative sushi rolls and Japanese entrees such as teriyaki. 31855 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City. 760-832-6160, hamachisushicc.com La Tablita Restaurant Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Featuring traditional dishes from the Los Altos region, like slow-cooked shredded lamb and traditional enchiladas suizas. 68369 East Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-321-5935, latablita.menutoeat.com Nicolino’s Italian Restaurant Italian: Lunch and dinner. Traditional Italian restaurant with a full menu like pizza, grilled chicken, bruschetta, specialty dishes and hamburgers. 35325 Date Palm Drive, Cathedral City. 760-324-0411, nicolinos.com
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Pollo Doky’s Peruvian: Lunch and dinner. Serving delicious and freshly made Peruvian cuisine and their popular rotisserie chicken. Other menu items include filet mignon, chicken and vegetarian dishes. 68718 Ramon Road, Cathedral City. 760-832-6878, pollodokys.com
Coachella
Pizzeria Bambinos Italian: Lunch and dinner. The menu features hot wings, fried raviolis, salads, pasta, sandwiches, calzones to classic pies and more. 69040 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City. 760-770-0505, pizzeriabambinos.com
JC’s Burger and Grill American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional diner features breakfast burritos and sandwiches, burgers, dinner combos, salads and sandwiches. 49405 Grapefruit Blvd, Coachella. 760-391-9800
Tony’s Burgers American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features American food with a combination of Mexican-American flavors, like nacho fries, huevos rancheros, exotic burgers and more. 35903 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City. 760-832-7794, tonysburgers.com
La Noria Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy authentic Mexican home cooking, featuring chilaquiles, gorditas, chile rellenos, tacos, sopes and more. 49613 Harrison Street, Coachella. 760-398-8131
Tortillas Restaurant Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving old-style Mexican cuisines such as carne asada, flautas, enchiladas and fajitas. 32123 Cathedral Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-324-8070, tortillasrestaurant.us
El Tranvia Restaurant Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving traditional Mexican dishes including carne asada, homemade tortillas, chile relleno. 1221 6th Street, Coachella. 760-391-9772
Mariscos El Capitan Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Fresh dishes prepared with traditional Mexican and seafood recipes. 52565 Harrison Street, Coachella. 760-600-7575, mariscoselcapitan.com
March 2020
dining
Desert Hot Springs Dillon’s Burgers & Beers American: Lunch and dinner. Come try the famous onion petals, burgers, entrées, salads and desserts. 64647 Dillon Rd, Desert Hot Springs. 760-774-7131, dillonsburgersbeers.com Las Palmas Mexican Cuisine Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Offering traditional Mexican cuisine such as huevos rancheros, mariscos, tacos, burritos, fajitas, chile rellenos, enchiladas, and a full bar. 11349 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-329-2048, laspalmasmexicancuisine.com South of the Border Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Offering traditional Mexican fare such as tacos and burritos, to tender and flavorful carnitas and camarones al mojo de ajo. 11719 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-251-4000 Thai Palm Restaurant Thai: Lunch and dinner. An exotic taste of authentic Thai food, offering seafood, lamb and Sia noodles with a harmonious blend of spicy, subtle flavors both sweet and sour. 12070 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs. 760-288-3934, thaipalmdhs.com
Indian Wells Café Italia Italian: Brunch, lunch and dinner. Northern Italian food creates a menu of pastas, filet mignon, while the dining room staff sings Broadway, show tunes, blues, opera and jazz standards. 74901 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-773-3080, cafeitaliareservations.com Citrus and Palms at Miramonte Resort & Spa American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring fresh local cuisine that is both healthy and delicious. From items like pumpkin seed French toast to stir-fried snap peas to bluefin poké, the menu is sure to impress. 45000 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells. 760-341-7200, miramonteresort.com Don Diego’s of Indian Wells Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Serving authentic Mexican cuisine featuring Tia Maria chile relleno, green corn tamales, or sizzling fajitas. 74969 HIghway 111, Indian Wells. 760-340-5588, dondiegoiw.com Eureka! American: Dinner. Gourmet burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, locally sourced produce and ultra-premium craft beer and whiskey. 74985 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-834-7700, eurekarestaurantgroup.com The Nest American: Dinner. A full-service restaurant with American cuisine that offers spicy ahi tostadas, simple grilled Scottish salmon, shrimp scampi and much more. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-346-2314, gotothenest.co The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel & Spa Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. The ingredient-driven restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine with a Moroccan influence. The menu features filet mignon, harissa chicken, prime ribeye, appetizers, shareable bites and more. 44985 Province Way, Indian Wells. 760-321-3771, sandshotelandspa.com
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Dining Photo courtesy of Fortun’s Kitche + Bar
Steak Oscar is served with served with Canadian cold water lobster tail, asparagus, and spinach, topped with house crafted Bearnaise sauce.
Indio The Cafe at Shields American: Breakfast and lunch. Guests can expect to find a variety of delicious items including signature dishes featuring dates, salads topped with homemade dressings, sandwiches served on homemade bread, authentic Mexican cuisine. 80225 Highway 111, Indio. 760-775-0902, shieldsdategarden.com China Bistro Chinese: Lunch and dinner. Offering authentic gourmet Chinese cuisine. The menu features wonton soup, crab rangoon, sesame chicken, Szechwan garlic chicken, bbq pork, beef and broccoli, crispy orange beef, noodles and vegetarian dishes. 45765 Towne Street, Indio. 760-342-7288, chinabistroindio.com El Mexicali Cafe II Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu offers a variey of traditional dishes featuring chile verde, tacos, enchiladas, sopes, carne asada, flautas, chile relleno and more. 43430 Monroe Street, Indio. 760-342-2333, elmexicalicafe2.com June Hill’s Table American: Lunch and dinner. Featuring local and regional house crafted selections, showcasing fresh made Californian fare that is healthy and flavorful. 51750 Polo Club Drive, Indio. 760-797-7229, mytrilogylife.com Sushi Bento Japanese: Lunch and dinner. The menu offers delicious handmade specialty and classic sushi rolls, nigiri sushi, sashimi, ramen, miso and udon soup. 82280 Highway 111, Indio. 760-775-3444, sushi-bento-pan-asian-restaurant.business.site Rincon Norteño Café Mexican: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Delicious, authentic north Mexican cuisine featuring a full bar, menudo, machaca, chilaquiles, carne asada, combination plates, tamales and seafood. 83011 Indio Blvd., Indio. 760-347-4754, rinconnorteno.com TKB Bakery & Deli American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sandwich shop and deli serving. Cookies, scones, muffins and deli sandwiches made with freshly baked breads, crisp greens and savory meats. 44911 Golf Center Parkway, Indio. 760-775-8330, tkbbakery.com
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March 2020
dining
La Quinta Fisherman’s Market & Grill Seafood: Lunch and dinner. Dedicated to serving the absolute freshest fish, with the most unique recipes Voted the #1 Best Seafood Restaurant for seventeen consecutive years; they maintain the highest standards that simply can’t be beat. 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta, 760-777-1601, fishermans.com Fortun’s Kitchen + Bar American: Dinner. The eatery boasts a diverse, mouth-watering menu of classic allAmerican family favorites with a distinct gourmet edge. Every item on our menu is made with fresh ingredients and hand built to order. 78085 Avenida La Fonda, La Quinta. 760-564-8744, fortunskitchen.com The Grill on Main American: Lunch and dinner. Chef Brett Maddock delivers an exciting new approach to American fare. Choose from a wide variety of appetizers, crisp salads, seafood, steak and pasta dishes along with specialty sandwiches and burgers. Full bar includes microbrews and a great wine list. Indoor and patio dining. 78065 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-777-7773, thegrillonmainlq.com Landmark American: Dinner. Enjoy a full bar, indoor and al fresco dining, an outdoor grill and everything from salads and sliders to shareables and barbecue specialties. 78100 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-289-7293, landmarklq.com La Quinta Baking Company French: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. A European-inspired bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as fresh baked breads and pastries daily. 78395 Highway 111, La Quinta. 760-777-1699, laquintabaking.com RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates Craft American: Lunch and dinner. Yes—it’s pronounced Roadrunner and it’s the newest place to dine at Old Town! RD RNNR offers Craft American fare made with fresh ingredients, great value, creative cocktails and a well-balanced selection of rotating taps in an invigorating, casual dining atmosphere. 78075 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 442-400-3255, roadrunnerlq.com Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill Italian, Pizza, American & Vegetarian: Lunch and dinner. Popular hotspot with uber-loyal, local following. Award-winning fresh pizza and menu featuring 100 items including prime steaks, seafood and great salads. Super-generous portions and friendly, energetic atmosphere. Great bar, wine-list and indoor and outdoor dining. 78015 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta, 760-777-9989, stuftpizzabarandgrill.com
Palm Desert AC3 Restaurant + Bar American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu reflects the chef’s passion for new American cuisine with unique global twists on classic dishes. 45350 Larkspur Lane, Palm Desert. 760-340-6069, ac3palmdesert.com Alps Village German: Lunch and dinner. The menu offers tempting European specialties such as stuffed cabbage, wiener schnitzel, chicken paprikash, grilled sausage and more. 77734 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-200-5400, alpsvillage.com
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Dining
Palm Desert Athena Gyro Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. Featuring authentic cuisine with traditional spices and flavors that make each dish an opportunity to experience classics and delicacies in new exciting ways. 73121 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert. 760-774-8387, athena-gyro.com City Wok Chinese: Lunch and dinner. A contemporary yet casual restaurant offering authentic, upscale Asian cuisine using only the freshest meats, seafood and produce available. 74970 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-341-1511, citywok.com Cups Café American: Breakfast and lunch. Featuring wheat zucchini pancakes. Cups benedicts satisfy bellies and keep the crowds coming. 77912 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-200-0333 Daily Grill American: Lunch and dinner. This eatery will tantalize your senses with every meal offering unique appetizers, crisp salads, fresh seafood, Angus beef and homemade desserts. 73061 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-779-9911, dailiygrill.com
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Photo courtesy of Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill’s chile relleno is stuffed with Monterey Jack cheese topped with ranchera sauce and cotija cheese.
Evzin Mediterranean Cuisine Mediterranean: Lunch and dinner. A bright, contemporary-style bistro featuring Mediterranean standards such as shawarma and falafel. 72695 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-340-2020, evzincuisine.com
French Corner Café French: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. An authentic French bakery with unique pastries that also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. 72423 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760568-5362, frenchcornercafe.com
Fisherman’s Market & Grill Seafood: Lunch and dinner. Dedicated to serving the absolute freshest fish, with the most unique recipes voted the No. 1 Best Seafood Restaurant for seventeen consecutive years; they maintain the highest standards that simply can’t be beat.44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert, 760-776-6533, fishermans.com
Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Serving a variety of chicken, beef, pork and seafood dishes including fajitas, chiles rellenos and enchiladas. 73325 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-836-9028, freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com
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Palm Desert Guillermo’s Restaurante Mexican: Lunch and dinner. The restaurant serves the highest quality, fresh Mexican dishes in a warm, friendly environment. 72850 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-3410980, guillermosrestaurante.com Grill-A-Burger American: Lunch and dinner. Casual spot specializing in gourmet burgers, sliders, hot dogs and salads. 73091 Country Club, Palm Desert. 760-346-8170, grill-a-burger.com Kaiser Grille American: Lunch and dinner. The menu offers all natural and hormone-free USDA prime beef, free range organic chicken, sustainable/wild seafood, and fresh, local produce. Organic products are used as much as possible. Desserts, dressings and sauces are all made in-house. 74040 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760779-9888, kaisergrillepalmdesert.com Kitchen 86 + Bar American Fusion: Lucnh and dinner. Offering small plates giving guests the ability to enjoy a variety of flavors without the need to overindulge. 73130 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760890-1586, kitchen-86.com
March 2020
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant Seafood: Dinner. The innovative menu features a variety of fresh seafood and flavorful steak dishes complemented by their international vodka menu and wine list. 73505 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-674-8666, pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com Paradise Cove Cafe American: Breakfast and lunch. Enjoy pancakes, oversized omelets, burgers and more at this family-owned cafe with patio seating. 44150 Town Center Way, Palm Desert. 760-779-1617, paradisecove.cafe Sherman’s Deli and Bakery American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. NYC-style deli serving kosher fare from morning to night, with specialty cakes and other baked goods. 73161 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-568-1350, shermansdeli.com Sullivan’s Steakhouse American: Dinner Serving mouth watering hand cut steaks and succulent fresh seafood broiled to perfection. 73505 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-341-3560, sullivanssteakhouse.com Wilma & Frieda American: Breakfast and lunch A full service breakfast and lunch farmhouse café with an urban twist. 73575 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-773-2807, wilmafrieda.com
Palm Springs Al dente Trattoria Toscana Italian: Lunch and dinner. A quaint cucina with a decidedly European atmosphere, an extensive menu of beef, veal, pasta and fresh seafood entrées. 491 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-1160, aldentepalmsprings.com Bill’s Pizza Italian: Lunch and dinner. Try one of 22 creations: Carol’s white pizza, pesto, bbq chicken, blue moon or choose your own ingredient combinations. 119 South Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-5571, billspizzapalmsprings.com Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu focuses on both presentation and flavor, incorporating diverse culinary influences while utilizing the freshest specialty produce, seafood and meat available. All dishes are prepared from scratch with creative flair. 849 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-325-8490, eight4nine.com Farm American/French: Breakfast and lunch. Dinner - Friday and Saturday. The menu includes crepes, omelets, sandwiches, salads and more. 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs. 760-322-2724, farmpalmsprings.com
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Dining
Photo courtesy of Grand Central Palm Springs
Palm Springs Grand Central Palm Springs American: Breakfast, luch daily. Dinner (Fri. and Sat.) Serving seasonally fresh California cuisine with a fun twist. 160 La Plaza, Palm Springs. 760-699-7185, grandcentralpalmsprings.com King’s Highway American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features steak and eggs, pannequet, tacos, burgers, sandwiches and salads. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-969-5777, kingshighwaydiner.com La Perlita Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Indulge in some of our popular dishes, such as the chile rellenos or the Perlita shrimp, and of course, anything else on the menu will not disappoint you. 901 Crossley Road, Palm Springs. 760-778-8014, laperlitamexicanfood.letseat.at Nature’s Health Food and Cafe American: Breakfast and lunch. A vegan/vegetarian cafe that uses organic produce and products with over 100 items on the menu. 555 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs. 760-323-9487, natureshealthfoodcafe.com Oscar’s Cafe & Bar American: Dinner, weekend brunch/lunch. The chef is focused on creating a menu that offers tremendous variety, options for almost every taste and diet, as well as a few specialties. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Peaks Restaurant American: Lunch & dinner at the top of the Tram. Chef-driven, seasonal menu features natural meats and local produce from the desert. 1 Tramway Rd., Palm Springs. 760-325-4537, pstramway.com/dining Riccio’s Steak and Seafood Italian /American: Dinner. It’s an ideal spot to sip a Bellini and savor the house lobster martini, a chilled appetizer made of Maine lobster and mango chunks, drizzled with mango rum, served up in a martini glass and then ponder the medley of choices on Riccio’s Mediterranean-focused menu. 495 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-3111, ricciossteakandseafood.com Rick’s Restaurant & Bakery American: Breakfast and lunch. Serving traditional breakfast and lunch with healthy alternatives. Great food with a Cuban influence at reasonable prices will satisfy everyone’s taste. 1973 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-416-0090, ricksrestaurant.biz
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March 2020
dining
Palm Springs Rick’s Desert Grill Cuban & American: Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Offering a huge selection of items for all appetites. Ample beer and wine. Great food with a Cuban influence. 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-2127, ricksdesertgrill.com Rooster and the Pig Vietnamese: Dinner. Stylish, industrial-chic eatery serving Vietnamese fare (check website for current menu), plus craft cocktails. 356 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-832-6691, roosterandthepig.com Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey Sushi: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & Brunch Award winning creative sushi complementing it with a Whiskey Bar bringing a whole new level of taste sensation to the table. 1556 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-537-1022, sandfishps.com Spencer’s Restaurant Continental: Breakfast, lunch, dinner & Brunch Stylish, comfortable Spencer’s is the choice for Sunday brunch, breakfast, a relaxed lunch, or memorable dinner. 701 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs. 760-327-3446, spencersrestaurant.com Tac/Quila Mexican: Lunch and dinner. Jalisco style Mexican food using fresh and locally grown ingredients. Unique and tasty craft tequila and mescal cocktails, boutique wines, and beers on tap. 415 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-417-4471, tacquila.com TRIO Restaurant American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. An energetic, desert-casual atmosphere with great American modern food at reasonable prices. 707 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760864-8746, triopalmsprings.com Woody’s Palm House American: Lunch and dinner. Gourmet burgers, fries, shakes and more. Head to the back room for dining/ lounge and live entertainment. 450 South Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com Zin American Bistro American: Lunch and Dinner. The menu features classic and seasonal items created with fresh, locally sourced ingredients for the best, authentic flavors. 198 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-322-6300, zinamericanbistro.com
Rancho Mirage Acqua California Bistro American: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. The casual bistro offers varied Californian cuisine, plus an all-day happy hour. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-862-9800, acquaranchomirage.com Babe’s Bar-B-Que and Brewhouse American: Lunch and dinner. Babe’s menu highlights include amazing mouth-watering steaks, hickory bbq and sandwiches that rival the best gastropubs and a full bar. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-346-8738, babesbbqandbrewhouse.com Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant Mediterranean: Dinner. Paella and tapas are served at this lively farm-to-table spot with a European-style decor and courtyard. 70026 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-770-9508, catalanrestaurant.com
March 2020
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Dining
Shrimp Pad Thai with stir-fried rice noodle, bean sprouts, scallion and peanuts. Photo courtesy of Talay Thai Restaurant
Rancho Mirage The Edge Steakhouse American: Dinner. The menu presents the most remarkable prime steak, seafood and wine, highlighted by spectacular views from its dramatic cliff-side setting. The Ritz-Carlton, 68900 Frank Sinatra Dr., Rancho Mirage. 760-321-8282, ritzcarlton.com. Fleming’s Prime Steak House American: Dinner. The nationally acclaimed restaurant offers the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders—with a unique wine list. The River, 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-776-6685, flemingssteakhouse.com Joyce’s Sushi Japanese: Lunch and dinner. Freshly prepared specialty rolls, soups and udon noodles. 36101 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-202-8186, joycessushiranchomirage.com Kobe Japanese Steak House Japanese: Dinner. Tables are set around chefs who create fun dishes like a beating rice heart or volcano onion. Excellent sushi is also available at the sushi bar or as an appetizer with your teppan meal. 69838 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage. 760-324-1717, koberanchomirage.com Norma’s Italian Kitchen Italian: Lunch and dinner. Experience authentic Italian cuisine with specialties entrees in poultry, veal and much more. 42418 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-8348738, normasitaliankitchen.com O’Caine’s Irish Pub Sports Pub: Lunch and dinner. A genuine Irish public house with a private dining room, gift shop, dart boards, live music, sports, crafted Irish cocktails and chef-prepared cuisine inspired by flavors of Ireland. 36101 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-202-3311, ocainesirishpub.com Roy’s Restaurant Asian Fusion: Lunch and dinner. The menu features sushi, Moroccan spice grilled swordfish, braised short ribs, Asian stuffed chicken breast and more. 71959 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-340-9044, roysrestaurant.com Talay Thai Restaurant American: Lunch and dinner. The restaurant offers a true Bangkok eating experience with an extensive menu of authentic Thai delights and savory favorites. 70065 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-832-9588, talaythairanchomirage.com
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March 2020
Calendar of events and performances La Quinta Civic Center
Photo courtesy of La Quinta Art Celebration
La Quinta Art Celebration
Experience amazing art, fine wine, fab food and live music By Alison Elsner
La Quinta Art Celebration 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday March 5-8 La Quinta Civic Center 78495 Calle Tampico La Quinta Tickets $20 adults $25 multi-day pass Free for children under 12 Free parking at Village of La Quinta $10 self parking $15 valet parking 760-628-7770 laquintaartcelebration.org
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hose of us who embrace culture are well covered with the debut of a bright new signature art event presented by SCOPE Events. Guests will be able to “oooh” and “ahhh” at the jury-selected artwork spanning 12 media categories exhibited by over 220 world-class artists hailing from 35 states and abroad. Art will include 2D and 3D mixed media, ceramics, drawing, pastel, fiber, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, sculpture and wood. There will also be a fascinating digital art installation. The works of six featured artists will be represented on a series of collectible 2020 posters, including those from Erin Hanson from San Diego and David Palmer from Pasadena.
Besides soothing the soul with the extensive original art exhibits, guests will remain refreshed by clinking champagne flutes at the Moët & Chandon Oasis Lounge and sipping top shelf spirits poured at the Ketel One Botanical Bar and lakeside Margarita Island featuring Don Julio 1942 tequila. Attendees can also savor upscale menu selections and premier wines while dining al fresco at the Celebration Bistro. There will also be a gourmet food court and a winery row featuring wines from San Luis Obispo, Napa and Sonoma counties. To complement the experience, there will be a cool line up of live music at the Amphitheater stage from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., headlined by The Art
of Sax on Saturday. Meltdown CLM will wax nostalgic with rock and pop renderings from the 1960s, '70s and '80s on Friday and Faults of Andreas dynamic guitar trio will close out the show on Sunday, March 8. The celebration fills a void left by the discontinuation of the annual La Quinta Arts Festival. Scope Events combines the talents of event managers who have produced the Sausalito Arts Festival and the La Quinta Arts Festival, positioning the celebration to become a new Coachella Valley favorite. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid lines at the entrance. After all, you don’t want to miss out on the Brandini Toffee decadently dipped ice cream bars.
March 2020
Calendar of events and performances Desert Art Festival will help you get your culture on
By Alison Elsner
Desert Art Festival March 7-8 and March 21-22 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Frances Stevens Park 538 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs Free admission 818-813-4478 westcoastartists.com
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race yourself—major beauty is headed your way. This colorful and textural festival will whisk you away to a whimsical weekend of art and culture. In March there are two festivals scheduled, showcasing 100 artists presenting original work, including paintings in acrylic, oils and watercolors, photography, etchings, sculpture in clay, glass, metal, stone and wood, fine crafts, blown glass, turned wood, semi-precious jewelry, pottery, stained glass and high-quality crafts. Contemporary artisans present unique styles of individually handcrafted functional and decorative pottery, raku, vessels and gourd art. Guests are in-
vited to leisurely stroll between artists’ booths to view the works while speaking directly with the artists. Many pieces are one of a kind, and all works are available for purchase. The venue is happily surrounded by panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the many upscale boutiques, eateries, hotels and galleries in the Uptown Design District of Palm Springs. Presented by West Coast Artists, this popular outdoor festival brings together the artists and the public while emphasizing quality in the arts. Proceeds benefit a local arts-related, non profit organization. Parking and admission are free.
Photo courtesy of West Coast Artists
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons strikes ‘Harmony, Perfect Harmony’ for nostalgic show
By Alison Elsner Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons 8 p.m. Saturday, March 14 The Show Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage 32250 Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage Tickets $125, $115 and $95 888-999-1995 hotwatercasino.com
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t’s time for some serious nostalgia with this spirited show featuring superstar Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons. Having produced and performed some of the most iconic music of the 1960s, the band spent its formative years immersed in the American rock and pop scene of the period, and in recent decades they’ve branched out into disco and soul, remaining strong for decades. Frankie Valli has received five Grammy Award nominations, including Best New Artist of 1962 and the Best Rock and Roll Recording for “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” Audience members can relive their
youth or rediscover a treasured era of music with songs like “Walk Like a Man,” “Beggin’,” “Grease,” “Harmony, Perfect Harmony,” “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Opus 17 (Don’t You Worry ‘Bout Me),” “Bye, Bye, Baby (Baby Goodbye),” “Rag Doll,” “December 1963 (Oh, What a Night),” “My Eyes Adored You,” “Swearin’ to God,” “Dawn (Go Away),” “Working My Way Back to You” and “Let’s Hang On!” Guests will appreciate the vast catalog of songs and the outstanding instrumentation and arrangements in this show that lovingly bridge the past with the present.
Photo courtesy of Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage
The Texas Tenors showcase everything from the music of Broadway to songs that celebrate our nation By Alison Elsner
The Texas Tenors 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19 McCallum Theatre 73000 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert Tickets $125 and $85 760-340-2787 mccallumtheatre.com desertsymphony.org thetexastenors.com
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hese three friends from Texas with a simple All-American dream have skyrocketed to popularity since they emerged in 2009. Presented by The Desert Symphony, they are Billboard Magazine’s #10 Classical Artist in the World for 2019. They are considered the most successful touring group in the history of “America’s Got Talent,” having appeared on the most recent season of the NBC hit show. They’ve amassed a huge fan base worldwide with over half a million followers on social media, and after airing worldwide on AGT, their fan base grew even larger. Over the last
decade, they have performed more than 1,400 live concerts at performing arts centers, casinos, symphony halls, outdoor festivals and major corporate events. This entirely new concert is based on their CD, “A Collection of Broadway and American Classics.” Audiences can look forward to renditions of “One Day More,” “Coming to America,” “Music of the Night,” “I Dreamed a Dream,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “God Bless America,” “Coming to America” and plenty of others. This will be a night to cherish as you enjoy everything from rousing show-stoppers to Americana classics!
Photo courtesy of The Desert Symphony
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Calendar of events and performances March 1
Photo courtesy of Fashion Week El Paseo
Palm Springs Vintage Market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come experience a diverse gathering of merchants selling vintage, retro and mid-century modern merchandise. Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 East Baristo, Palm Springs. palmspringsvintagemarket.com
March 2 National Georgraphic Live! at 7 p.m. Whether she’s traversing the desert alongside Bedouin nomads or falling in with English country gentlemen staging a beauty pageant for rodents, Annie Griffiths has a habit of uncovering the humorous, the heartwarming and the univeral in the strangest of places. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 3 Davina and The Vagabonds and Hot Club of Cowtown at 8 p.m. A celebration of a time in American popular music, at the end of the Second World War, when European jazz, Western swing, blues, and pop energized dance halls and radio waves throughout the country, ushering in the optimism, strength and freedom of a new era. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 4-8 Pink Martini Featuring China Forbes and Storm Large For more information, see page 5. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 5-8 La Quinta Art Celebration at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, see page 20. La Quinta Civic Center Park, 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta. 760-567-9149, laquintaartcelebration.org
March 6 Terry Fator at 8 p.m. America’s favorite ventriloquist, impressionist and stand-up comedian returns to the Coachella Valley with his all-star team of anything-but-ordinary pupperts. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Bob Woodward at 7:30 p.m. Legendary Pulitzer prize-winning investigative journalist, author and associate editor at The Washington Post. The Richards Center for the Arts, 2248 Ramon Road, Palm Springs. 760-624-8752, palmspringsspeaks.org
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March 7 Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival at 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate wildflowers and beautiful art, the festival will also feature a kids’ zone, 5K fun run, raffles, vendors, exhibitors and live music in the beer and wine garden. Palm Desert Civic Center Park, 43900 San Pablo Avenue, Palm Desert. 760-568-9918, desertmountains.org Canadian Military Tribute at 1 to 2 p.m. Pay honor to our neighbors to the north in this annual Canadian Military Tribute program. Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. 760-778-6262, palmspringsairmuseum.org Enigma Norteño y Adriel Favela at 8 p.m. Known for their Sinaloense musical style, Enigma Norteño, is a quartet who broke through stateside in 2019 with their hits “El Ondeado” and “Aunque Sea En Slencio.” Adriel Favela is a Sinaloan singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who specializes in Norteño corridos and bandas. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. 760-775-5566, spotlight29.com
Arman Hovhannisyan at 6:30 p.m. The Armenian singer brings his latest tour to the desert. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-9991995, hotwatercasino.com Il Volo at 8 p.m. They have entertained fans from all over the world with their powerhouse vocals and unique combination of pop and opera. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-8272946, fantasyspringsresort.com
March 9-22 BNP Paribas Open For more information, see page 6. Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 78200 Miles Avenue, Indian Wells. 800-999-1585, bnpparibasopen.com
March 12 Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder at 8 p.m. Skaggs struck his first chords on a mandolin over 50 years ago and with Kentucky Thunder, his band of virtuoso pickers, he leads the revival in roots music. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 2020
Calendar of events and performances March 14
March 16
Pitbull at 8 p.m. The Grammy award-winning superstar has electrified fans around the world with his high-energy performances and inspirational story. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel at 7 p.m. For the final program of the season, Jeffrey presents music of three great composers born within months of one another. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
Art On Main Stree at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 100 artists each season showing and selling their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, ceramic, glass, woodwork, textiles and more. Admission, parking and entertainment are free. Old Town La Quinta, 78100 Main Street, La Quinta. oldtownlaquinta.com
March 17
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons at 8 p.m. For more information, see page 21. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com
March 15 Chelsea Chen, Organ at 4 p.m. Her solo concerts offer a unique mix of traditional organ repertoire along wiht piano/orchestral transcriptions and contemporary music. St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 47535 Highway 74, Palm Desert. 760-346-2697, dfom.org
March 2020
The Celtic Tenors at 8 p.m. The charismatic, globe-trotting trio is one of the most successful classical crossover acts to emerge from Ireland. They just sing songs they love, and they most certainly don’t take themselves too seriously. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 18 New York Philharmonic String Quartet at 8 p.m. The quartet comprises four principal musicians from the orchestra: Concertmaster Frank Huang (The Charles E. Culpeper Chair); Principal Associate Concertmaster Sheryl Staples (The Elizabeth G. Beinecke Chair); Principal Viola Cynthia Phelps (The Mr. and Mrs. Frederick P. Rose Chair); and Carter Brey (The Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Chair). McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
Bob Woodward.
Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Speaks
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Explore and Enjoy
the Coachella Valley
Calendar of events and performances March 19 The Texas Tenors at 8 p.m. For more information, see page 21. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 20 “Bridge of Spies” Movie Screening at 6 p.m. The film will have special in person commentary from film contributor and son of Francis Gary Powers himself, Gary Powers Jr. Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. 760-778-6262, palmspringsairmuseum.org
March 20-28 Fashion Week El Paseo This world-class event provides an inspiring, immersive fashion experience and features cocktails receptions, trunk shows, celebrity meet-and-greets and much more. The Gardens on El Paseo, 73545 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 888-596-1027, fashionweekelpaseo.com
March 21 Chaka Khan. Photo courtesy of Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
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Daryl Hall & John Oates at 8 p.m. For more information, see page 5. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
The Manhattan Transfer at 8 p.m. They continue to set the standard as one of the world’s most innovative vocal groups with their blend of pop, jazz, R&B, rock n’ roll, swing and a cappella music. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com Australia’s Thunder from Down Under at 8 p.m. Australia’s hottest export showcases chiseled bodies, seductive dance routines, cheeky humor and boy-next-door charm that you won’t be able to resist! Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com
March 22 The Stylistics at 7 p.m. The band known for their songs “You’re a Big Girl Now,” “Stop, Look, Listen to Your Heart,” “You Are Everything” and “Betcha By Golly Wow” bring their latest tour to the desert. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com It’s Magic! at 3 p.m. Featuring the biggest stars of magic from across the globe in one show! See illusionists, comedy magicians, expert manipulators and variety acts from America’s Got Talent, headliners from Las Vegas. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 2020
Calendar of events and performances
Art on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta.
Photo courtesy of CVB
March 24
March 27-29
Mnozil Brass at 8 p.m. Seamlessly blending technical virtuosity and comedic brilliance, this brass septet has become an international sensation. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival The festival features the brightest and most inspired chefs from across the country for three extraordinary days of culinary and wine tastings. The Gardens on El Paseo, 73545 El Paseo, Palm Desert. palmdesertfoodandwine.com
March 25 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at 8 p.m. The company will perform a mixed repertory program featuring recent premieres and classics including the Ailey masterpiece “Revelations.” McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 27 Chaka Khan at 8 p.m. She is one of the world’s most gifted and celebrated music icons — a singer, songwriter, actor, author, philanthropist, entrepreneur and activist who has influenced generations of artists in a career spanning four decades. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Steve Tyrell at 8 p.m. Grammy Award-winning vocalist has reinvented and re-popularized classic pop standards for a modern audience. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
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March 27-31 American Documentary Film Festival The film festival showcases more than 1,000 documentary and animated films on multiple screens in multiple desert cities. amdocfilmfest.com
March 28
Saturday Night Dance Fever at 7:30 p.m. The evening is hosted by Deney Terrio featuring live performances by The Trammps, Rose Royce, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Luci Martin and Norma Jean, France Joli, Hues Corporation, Maxine Nightingale, The Urban Guerilla Orchesra and more. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. 888-999-1995, hotwatercasino.com Stepping Out for College of the Desert at 8 p.m. Acclaimed Broadway actor, singer and dancer Matthew Morrison will dazzle attendees at this year’s gala—the major fundraiser for student scholarships and services at College of the Desert. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 29
Dancing with the Stars at 8 p.m. Featuring “Dancing with the Stars” season 28 professional dancers Brandon Armstrong, Lindsay Arnold, Alan Bersten, Whitney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Sasha Farber, Jenna Johnson, Gleb Savchenko, Emma Slater and celebrity guest Kate Flannery. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
McCallum Theatre Concert Band at 3 p.m. Take a musical tour around the world with Mitch Gershenfel and the McCallum Theatre Concert Band with special guest Sandor & Parissa, Tango Dancers. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert. 760340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
Art On Main Street at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 100 artists each season showing and selling their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, ceramic, glass, woodwork, textiles and more. Admission, parking and entertainment are free. Old Town La Quinta, 78100 Main Street, La Quinta. oldtownlaquinta.com
Straight No Chaser at 7 p.m. The captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense...and with a sense of humor. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.com
March 30
March 2020
nightlife feature
John Stanley King rocks Vicky’s of Santa Fe every Monday, Friday and Sunday.
Photo courtesy of Vicky’s of Santa Fe
Nightlife Roundup Festive nighttime outings unfold Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s entertainment and time.
Mondays Ace Hotel & Swim Club Fabulous Bingo, 7 p.m. Ace Trivia with Bella Da Ball, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Lavender Bistro Mark Greg at 6 p.m. in the lounge Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace Open mic night with special guest host, 7 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room Keisha D, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke from 9 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
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Vicky’s of Santa Fe John Stanley King’s Country, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Woody’s Palm House Motown Monday, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Tuesdays Ace Hotel & Swim Club Karaoke with Keisha, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings Brad’s Pad at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino Brad Mercer and his 8-piece Band, 7 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Lavender Bistro Abie Perkins at 6 p.m. in the lounge Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com
Purple Room Rose Mallett, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with host Jason Eberle, 9 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe John McCormick Band, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Wednesdays Ace Hotel & Swim Club Belly Flop Comedy Show, 9 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings
March 2020
nightlife
Luxxury will perform a DJ set poolside at the Ace Hotel on March 21.
Wednesdays bluEmber Michael Keeth, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com Lavender Bistro Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in the lounge Scott Carter at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com Noches de Fuego at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 3/4: Renacimiento Norteño, 7p.m. 3/11: Bohemio, 7 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Purple Room Michael Holmes and Keisha D, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with host Karaokie Jo, 7 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Slim Man Band, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com
March 2020
Photo courtesy of concertupdater.com
Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Purple Room Sharon Sills, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com
Thursdays
Retro Room Lounge Drag Queen Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club 3/12: Campfire Stories, 7 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings bluEmber John Stanley King, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com Country Night at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 3/5: Jimi Nelson, 7 p.m. 3/12: South 65, 7 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Lavender Bistro Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in the lounge Scott Carter at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 3/5: Johnny Travis Jr. at 7:30 p.m. 3/12: AC Sapphire with Feisty Heart at 8 p.m. 3/19: Rainy Eyes at 8 p.m. 3/26: The Red Headed Stranger, 8 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com
Tack Room Tavern Karaoke, 8 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com Vicky’s of Santa Fe Lisa and the Gents, 6:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Woody’s Palm House Live entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Fridays Ace Hotel & Swim Club 3/6: Desert Daze Nights, 10 p.m. 3/13: Jetset ft. Nena Anderson, 8 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings bluEmber Stanley Butler, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com
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nightlife
Rose’s Pawn Shop will perform at Pappy and Harriet’s on March 28.
Fridays Landmark LIve music, 8 to 11 p.m. 78100 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta 442-324-0055 Lavender Bistro Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in the lounge Scott Carter at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com LIT at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 3/6: Six Hot LIve, 9 p.m. 3/13: Muzicali, 9 p.m. 3/20: Live Entertainment, 9 p.m. 3/27:Live Entertainment, 9 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 3/6: Shooter Jenning at 7 p.m. 3/13: The White Buffalo at 7 p.m. 3/20: Giselle Woo + The Night Owls at 8 p.m. 3/27: The Sunday Band at 7:30 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room 3/6: Natalie Douglas, 6 p.m. 3/13: The Judy Show!, 6 p.m. 3/20: Marilyn Maye, 6 p.m. 3/27: The Judy Show!, 6 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com
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Retro Room Lounge Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Spotlight 29 Casino Live Latin Bands at En Vivo!, 9:30 p.m. Live music at Hot Spot, 9 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella 760-775-5566, Spotlight29.com
Photo by Bree Ellsworth
Saturdays Ace Hotel & Swim Club 3/7-3/28: Weekends in the Desert, 12 p.m. 3/14: Discoteca, 12 p.m. 3/21: Luxxury (DJ Set), noon 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings
Tack Room Tavern Live music, 9 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com
Backstreet Bistro Live Jazz, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. 72820 El Paseo, Palm Desert 760-346-6393, backstreet-bistro.com
twelve at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino Mark Gregg & Misty Howell, 7 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
bluEmber Gina Carey, 6 to 10 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe Meet the Corwins, 5:30 p.m. John Stanley King Show, 8 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Landmark LIve music, 8 to 11 p.m. 78100 Main Street, Old Town La Quinta 442-324-0055
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Wally’s Desert Turtle John and MIchael Bolivar, 6 p.m. 71775 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-568-9321, wallysdesertturtle.com Woody’s Palm House Rose Mallett, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Lavender Bistro Abie Perkins at 6 p.m. in the lounge Mark Guerrero at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com LIT at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 3/7: Six Hot LIve, 9 p.m. 3/14: Muzicali, 9 p.m. 3/21: Live Entertainment, 9 p.m. 3/28:Live Entertainment, 9 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
March 2020
nightlife
Saturdays Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace 3/7: Shooter Jennings at 7 p.m. 3/14: The Lone Bellow at 7 p.m. 3/21: Mattson 2 at 7 p.m. 3/28: Rose’s Pawn Shop at 8 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room 3/14: Scot Bruce, 6 p.m. 3/21: Marilyn Maye, 6 p.m. 3/28: Branden and James, 6 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com Retro Room Lounge Karaoke, midnight to 1:45 a.m. Drag Show, 10 p.m. (Reservations required) Karaoke, midnight to 2 a.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com Spotlight 29 Casino Live music at Hot Spot, 9 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella 760-775-5566, Spotlight29.com Tack Room Tavern Live music, 9 p.m. 81900 Avenue 51, Indio 760-347-9985, tackroomtavern.com
March 2020
twelve at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino Mark Gregg & Misty Howell, 7 p.m. 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
bluEmber Michael Keeth, 5 to 9 p.m. 41000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage 760-5834-2110, omnihotels.com
Vicky’s of Santa Fe Rose Mallett & Company, 5 p.m. Kal David, 7:30 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Lavender Bistro Abie Perkins at 6 p.m. in the lounge Scott Carter at 6 p.m. in patio 78073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta 760-564-5353, lavenderbistro.com
Village Pub Live entertainment, 9 p.m. to close 266 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-323-3265, palmspringsvillagepub.com Wally’s Desert Turtle John and MIchael Bolivar, 6 p.m. 71775 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage 760-568-9321, wallysdesertturtle.com
Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace The Sunday Band at 7:30 p.m. 3/8: Shooter Jennings at 7 p.m. 3/22: Three Chord Justice, 7:30 p.m. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown 760-365-5956, pappyandharriets.com Purple Room The Judy Show, 5 p.m. 1900 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-322-4422, purpleroompalmsprings.com
Woody’s Palm House Stanley Butler Band, 6:30 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
Retro Room Lounge Karaoke with Dion, 7 p.m. 125 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com
Sundays
Vicky’s of Santa Fe John Stanley King Trio, 6 p.m. 45100 Club Drive, Indian Wells 760-345-9770, vickysofsantafe.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club 3/1, 3/15 & 3/29: Weekends in the Desert, 12 p.m. 3/8: Lust in the Dust with David Oh, 12 p.m. 701 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings
Woody’s Palm House Live Entertainment, 6:30 to 10 p.m. 450 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
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club scene
Photos courtesy of Copa Nightclub
Photos courtesy of Chill Bar
Dance the night away
Your guide to the club scene in the Coachella Valley Cascade Lounge Located just off the casino floor, Cascade Lounge is the perfect place to enjoy dancing and drinks. Featuring live entertainment six days a week. Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, 401 East Amado Road, Palm Springs. 888-999-1995, sparesortcasino.com Chill Bar Hosting some of the best LGBT parties in Palm Springs featuring local and world renowned DJs and celebrities. 217 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs. 760-327-1079, chillbarpalmsprings.com The Club at Hotel Zoso The lounge and dance club features a vintage disco vibe merging with Palm Springs chic. Experience a new level of cool in a hot spot of nightlife activity. 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-325-9676, hotelzosopalmsprings.com Copa Nightclub One of the hottest nightclubs in the Coachella Valley, with state-of-the art lighting and sound. Featuring top world-
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Desert Entertainer
class DJs playing various genres of music, Wednesday-Saturday. 244 E. Amado Road, Palm Springs. 760-866-0021, copapalmsprings.com Costas Nightclub Experience the excitement of this desert favorite, open to guests 21 and over every Friday and Saturday. Known for its DJs, live music and tempting libations. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, 74855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-341-1724, marriott.com
LIT The bar and lounge plays host to Noches De Fuego, Brad’s Pad, Country Nights and features live bands on weekends playing top 40, hip-hop, funk and R&B hits so guests can dance the night away. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com
En Vivo Dance to music from live Latin bands every Saturday night. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. 760-7755566, spotlight29.com
Toucans Tiki Lounge Toucans offers something for everyone—gay, lesbian, transgender and straight. Music ranges from show tunes and Broadway to dance hits from the '70s through today. Drag shows are featured every Sunday night. 2100 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-416-7584, toucanstikilounge.com
Hunters Nightclub Dance the night away with world-class DJs on the state-of-the art dance floor. The club also features go-go boys, contests and theme nights. 302 East Arenas Road, Palm Springs. 760-323-0700, hunterspalmsprings.com
Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s hours, theme night, dress code and more. Visit, desertentertainer.com to sign up for the free monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date in nightlife, dining, event happenings and more.
March 2020
happy hour
It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere Outstanding happy hours Cathedral City Bubba’s Bones & Brews Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 68525 Ramon Rd. 760-699-7231. Henry’s Sports Bar & Grill Daily happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. 68955 Ramon Road. 760-656-3444. Otori Japanese Cuisine Daily happy hour from 8 p.m. to closing. 68100 Ramon Road, Suite A1. 760-699-5486. Trilussa Ristorante Daily happy hour in the bar, 4 to 7 p.m. 68718 E. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-328-2300.
Indian Wells Don Diego’s Happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 74969 Highway 111. 760-340-5588. Eureka! Daily “hoppy” hour, 2 to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. 74985 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-834-7700. Frank’s Place Daily happy hour 4 to 6 p.m. Indian Wells Resort Hotel, 76661 Highway 111. 760-797-8700.
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Desert Entertainer
The Nest Nightly happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. in the bar only. 75188 Highway 111, Indian Wells. 760-346-2314.
RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates Daily happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m. 78075 Main Street. 442-400-3255.
Vue Grille & Bar Happy hour at the bar from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. Indian Wells Golf Resort, 44500 Indian Wells Lane. 760-834-3800.
Landmark Enjoy $2 off great food and a full bar selection including premium wine, liquors and beer. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 78100 Main Street. 760-600-0758.
Indio Heirloom Craft Kitchen Happy hour available Tuesday-Friday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. 49990 Jefferson. 760-773-2233. Jackalope Ranch Happy hour, MondaySunday from 3 to 6 p.m. 80400 Highway 111. 760-342-1999. Neil’s Lounge Daily happy hour, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 80956 Highway 111, Indio. 760-347-1522. Pueblo Viejo Grill Daily happy hour at the bar from 3 to 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to closing. 81931 Highway 111, 760-342-5900.
LQ Brewing Co. “Hoppy” hours, MondayFriday from 3 to 6 p.m. 78065 Main Street. 760-972-4251. Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill Happy hour specials Monday-Saturday, 3 to 6 p.m. 78015 Main Street, suite 100. 760-777-9989.
Palm Desert AC3 Restaurant + Bar Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 45350 Larkspur Lane. 760-340-6069.
La Quinta
Alps Village Daily happy hour 11:30 a.m. to close. 77734 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-200-5400.
The Grill on Main Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Special $4 tacos on Tuesday, 3 to 7 p.m. 78065 Main Street. 760-777-7773.
Daily Grill Tuesday-Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday from 3 to closing. At the bar only. 73061 El Paseo. 760-779-9911.
March 2020
happy hour Palm Desert Fresh Agave Mexican Bar and Grill Daily happy hour in the bar from 3 to 5 p.m. 73325 Highway 111. 760-836-9028.
Draughtsman Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 1501 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-507-1644.
Woody’s Palm House Daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr. 760-230-0188.
High Bar Happy hour, Sunday-Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. The Rowan, 100 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way. 760-904-5015.
Rancho Mirage
Libation Room Weekday happy hour, 6 to 8 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. on weekends. 73750 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 877-869-8891.
Las Casuelas Terraza Happy hour MondayFriday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. 222 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-2794.
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant Daily happy hour, 3 to 6:30 p.m. All day Wednesday and Sunday. 73505 El Paseo. 760-674-8666.
Lulu California Bistro Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to close. 200 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-327-5858.
Piero’s PizzaVino Daily happy hour, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. High-top tables and bar only. 73722 El Paseo. 760-568-2525.
Revel Public House Daily happy hour, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. 140 South Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-9464.
Tommy Bahama Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. 73595 El Paseo. 760-836-0288.
Rick’s Desert Grill Daily happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday-Friday. 1596 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-2127.
Palm Springs Al dente Happy hour special, daily from 3 to 5 p.m. 491 N. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-325-1160. Bootlegger Tiki Happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. and midnight to 2 a.m. daily. 1101 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-318-4154.
The Tropicale Everyday happy hour, 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to close. 330 East Amado Road. 760-866-1952. Wilma & Frieda Happy hour, ThursdaySsaturday, 4 to 6 p.m. 155 S. Palm Canyon Drive. 760-992-5080.
Acqua California Bistro Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to close. 71800 Highway 111. 760-862-9800. Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewery Happy hour, Monday-Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. in the bar only. The River, 71800 Highway 111. 760-346-8738. Bernie’s Lounge All night happy hour, 4 p.m. to close. Only in the lounge. 69830 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-202-4499. Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant Daily happy hour, all night long in the bar. 70026 Highway 111. 760-770-9508. Dringk Eatery + Bar Daily happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m. The River, 71800 Highway 111. 760-888-0111. Las Casuelas Nuevas Happy hour served Sunday-Thursday, 4 p.m. to closing. FridaySaturday, 4 to 6 p.m. 70050 Highway 111. 760-328-8844.
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Del Rey Daily happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close. 1620 S. Indian Trail. 760-327-2314.
Trio Restaurant Daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 707 North Palm Canyon Drive. 760-864-8746.
360 Sports Daily happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, 32250 Bob Hope Drive. 888-999-1995.
March 2020
Desert Entertainer
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Feeling Lucky?
More than just jackpots
Treat yourself to gaming, restaurants and entertainment
Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage Located in Rancho Mirage. The Coachella Valley’s premier Poker Room. Home of The Show concerts, comedy and much more. 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. hotwatercasino.com Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs Offers an action-packed casino with slots, table games, high-limit gaming, live music and three restaurants. 401 East Amado Road, Palm Springs. sparesortcasino.com Augustine Casino Featuring the hottest slots in the Valley, three card poker, Spanish 21, ultimate Texas hold’em, black jack, musical entertainment and dining. 84001 Avenue 54, Coachella. augustinecasino.com Fantasy Springs Resort Casino Offering all you need for a fun-filled getaway or complete destination vacation. Featuring luxurious hotel rooms, exciting Vegas-style gambling options, fabulous dining, world-class entertainment, golf and poolside lounging, you’ll find it all here. This 250-room hotel features well-decorated rooms, many with spectacular mountain views. 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. fantasyspringsresort.com
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Desert Entertainer
Morongo Casino Resort The casino offers 310 well-appointed rooms and suites, a 150,000 square foot casino floor, nine restaurants and lounges and world-class entertainment. 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon. morongocasinoresort.com Red Earth Casino The casino offers 14,000 square feet of gaming space and is home to over 400 gaming machines, eight table games, including Texas hold’em, Spanish 21 and Lucky Ladies Blackjack. 3089 Norm Niver Road, Salton Sea Beach. redearthcasino.com Spotlight 29 Casino Features 1,600 of the hottest slots of any casino in the Coachella Valley. The casino also offers world-class table games, plus dining for less with a variety of fine and casual options. Guests can dance the night away at two exciting night clubs: En Vivo and Hot Spot. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. spotlight29.com Tortoise Rock Casino The casino offers 30,000 square feet of gaming space, with 490 slot machines, seven table games, live poker, plus live entertainment, Oasis Grill and Shelly’s Lounge. 73829 Baseline Road, Twentynine Palms. tortoiserockcasino.com
march 2020
Curtain time “Pajama Game.”
Photo courtesy of Palm Canyon Theatre
Discover where the curtains will rise this month By Gary Walker
Lunch with Bob Mackie
ajama Game, the Palm Canyon production now playing through March 15, is the musical adaptation of the 1953 Richard Bissell novel “7 and a Half Cents,” about a group of Midwest pajama factory workers who slow down production for a 7 and a half cent raise. Sid, the new superintendent, finds himself in a dispute with Babe, the leader of the workers’ union, but they are drawn together and production never had it so good.
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Coachella Valley Rep usually invites wellknown actors to be the main focus of its Luminary Luncheons, but the March 19 spotlight falls on renowned costume and fashion designer Bob Mackie, perhaps most notable for his classic designs for Mitzi Gaynor, Cher and all 11 seasons of the Carol Burnett Show. His career spanned five decades, and he won a Tony Award, nine Emmy Awards, three Academy Award nominations and was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame.
Curtain Time: “The Pajama Game,” Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. 7 p.m. Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, through March 15. Tickets: $32-$26, students $15 with valid ID and purchased at the box office, 760-323-5123 or palmcanyontheatre.org.
Curtain Time: Famed designer Bob Mackie at CV Rep Luminary Luncheon, 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 19, Agua Caliente Resort Casino, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. Tickets: $55. For more information, call 760-296-2966 or visit cvrep.org.
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Coyote’s ‘Velocity’
Coyote StageWorks’ second production of the season is Eric Coble’s “The Velocity of Autumn,” running March 13-22 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. According to Artistic Director Chuck Yates, “The play is a wickedly funny and wonderfully touching discovery of the fragility and ferocity of life to wit: Artist 80-year-old Alexandra is in a showdown with her family over where she’ll spend her remaining years. In her corner are her wit, her volcanic passion and the fact that she has barricaded herself in her Brooklyn brownstone with enough Molotov cocktails to take out the block. But the children have their own secret weapon. In the cast are David Youse and Barbara Gruen. Curtain Time: “The Velocity of Autumn,” March 13-22, Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2100 East Tahquitz Canyon Way. Tickets/info: $50 and up, 760-318-0024 or coyotestageworks.org.
March 2020
curtain time
Desert Theatreworks’ presents “The Producers” on stage March 13-29.
Texas Tenors Go Symphonic The Desert Symphony welcomes the internationally popular Texas Tenors Thursday evening March 19, who will perform the second half of the program with such hits as “Rocky Top,” “Bring Him Home,” Phantom of the Opera” and other favorites. Musical director Gary Berkson leads the orchestra in the first half with “El Gran Cielo de Texas,” “Mountain Music,” “You Raise Me Up,” “Unchained Melody” and “Nessun Dorma,” to name a few of the symphonic arrangements.
March 2020
Photo courtesy of Desert Theatreworks
Curtain Time: The Texas Tenors and Desert Symphony, 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19, McCallum Theatre, Palm Desert. Tickets: $85-$125, 760340-2787 or mccallumtheatre.com.
‘The Producers’ at DTW Based on the 1968 film, Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” is a laugh-out-loud, outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical-comedy that has been a smash hit since its 2001 debut. Fading Broadway producer Max Bialystock is desperate to get to the top of his profession again,
and finds an unlikely ally in mousy accountant Leo Bloom, who predicts that one could make far more money with a flop of a show than with a hit. Together, the two set out to produce the worst musical ever to hit Broadway. Unfortunately for them, their show is a huge hit! With no shortage of show-stopping musical numbers, and Brooks’ signature humor keeping audiences in stitches, “The Producers” is definitely far from a flop. Experience all the madcap fun from this tony award winner for best musical. Daniela Ryan directs the talents of Michael Pacas, Jacob Samples, Christopher Doshier, Timm McBride, Kam Sisco, Kari Kirkland, Raul Valenzuela, Katrina Dixon, Renee Solom, Shelley Mann, Angus Feath, Robert Guenther, Trevin Ortega, Violet Feath, Alli Mendoza, Bella Oden, Alana Mittleman, Ariadna Cortes, Ramon Martinez, Laura Martinez and Rick Baldwin. Curtain Time: “The Producers,” Desert Theatreworks, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. 2 p.m. Sunday. March 13-29. Tickets: $32, seniors/military $30, 18 and under $25. Indio Performing Arts Center, 45175 Fargo Street, Indio. 760-980-1455, dtworks.org.
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Curtain time
Organist Chelsea Chen performs at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 15. Photo courtesy of Desert Friends of Music.
Sunday Cabaret Les Michaels’ Sunday Cabaret Series continues in March with the following shows at 2 p.m. at the Joslyn Center’s Arthur Newman Theater in Palm Desert: March 8: “Harmony Reigns” with Vocalocity March 15: “It’s a Long, Long While – My Year in Song” starring Vicki Knight March 22: “Country Soul Cabaret” featuring Keisha D March 29: “Pat (McCann) Sings About Practically Everything” Curtain Time: 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets; $15 at the door, 760-325-2731. For more information, visit lesmichaels.com/joslyn.html.
Desert Friends of Music St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church’s Desert Friends of Music programming offers the “rare musicality” of organist Chelsea Chen Sunday afternoon, March 15. Chen is a graduate of Juilliard and Yale and is currently Artist-in-Residence at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church in New York City. Her solo concerts offer a unique mix of traditional organ repertoire, along with piano/orchestral transcriptions and contemporary music. The Los Angeles Times has praised her “rare musicality” and “lovely, lyrical grandeur.” Note: Free organ recitals at the church: Kevin McKelvie March 6, Dennis Siebenaler March 13, Philip Smith March 20 Curtain Time: Organist Chelsea Chen, 4 p.m. Sun., March 15, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Palm Desert. Tickets: $20 in advance or at the door. For more information, visit chelseachen.com.
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curtain time Other Current Performances “How to Survive an Apocalypse,” 7 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, March 13-22, Desert Ensemble Theatre Company, Pearl McManus Theatre, Palm Springs Woman’s Club, 314 Cahuilla. Tickets and info: 760-565-2476 or detctheatre.org. Pulitzer Prize winner “Sweat,” by Lynn Notttage, thru March 8, Dezart Performs, Pearl McManus Theater (at historic Palm Springs Woman’s Club), 314 S. Cahuilla Road. Tickets and info: 760-322-0179 or dezartperforms.org.
Theatre 29’s Classic Story This new dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ classic, “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe,” set in the land of Narnia faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch, and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. Curtain Time: “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe,” Friday-Sunday, March 20-April 5, Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road, Twentynine Palms. Tickets/info: 760-361-4151 or theatre29.org.
March 2020
Upcoming… “Intermission,” A humorous love story about people who seek endless possibilities and happy endings, 7:30 p.m., March 6-7, Script2Stage2Screen, Unitarian Universalist Church of the Desert, 72425 Via Vail, Rancho Mirage. Tickets: $10. script2stage2screen.com “Sordid Lives,” March 25-29, 7 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. Tickets: 760-323-5123 or palmcanyontheatre.org. “A Doll’s House, Part 2,” March 13-22, Coyote StageWorks, Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2100 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. Tickets: $50 and up, 760-318-0024 or coyotestageworks.org. “Mostly Broadway – David Burnham in Concert” Desert Theatricals, 5:30 p.m. Sat., March 28, Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, 71560 San Jacinto Drive, Rancho Mirage. General admission tickets: $45. Dinner table seating available. desert-theatricals.com
Coyote Stageworks’ “A Doll’s House, Part 2.” Photo by David A. Lee, courtesy of Coyote Stageworks
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attractions
It’s time for adventure Attractions worth adding to your itinerary
E
xperiencing something new is what traveling is all about. From the normal to the odd and eccentric, these can’tmiss, curious attractions are celebrated for keeping the Greater Palm Springs and surrounding desert region utterly unique.
Boomers! Race to victory on the go-kart tracks. Become a golf legend on any one of the three 18-hole mini golf courses. Get a high from climbing the rock wall or just get wet on the splash island bumper boats. Play in the arcade with over 129 state-of-the-art games. 67700 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City. 760-770-7522, boomerspalmsprings.com
Best of the Best Tours Serving the Coachella Valley for 20 years, Best of the Best Tours offers premier entertainment and informational tour services. Tours include the Indian Canyon tour, Rich and Famous tour, Windmill tour and the Bonanza tour (a combination of the Best of the Best award-winning tours). thebestofthebesttours.com
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum A unique Hopi inspired pueblo, Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is a multi-level building that includes 35 rooms, 150 windows and 65 doors all crafted from found materials. The museum houses Native American pottery, 20th-century photographs and artifacts. 67616 Desert View Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. 760-329-7610, cabotsmuseum.org
Big Bear Alpine Zoo San Bernardino County’s only zoo also serves as a wildlife animal sanctuary, rehabilitation and education center. 43285 Goldmine Drive, Big Bear Lake. 909584-1299, bigbearzoo.org
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert Children and parents can learn and discover hands-on activities together, including traveling exhibits, toddler town and much more. 71701 Gerald Ford Drive, Rancho Mirage. 760-321-0602, cdmod.org
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Coachella Valley History Museum The museum seeks to share the unique history of the desert, Cahuilla Indians and pioneers who forged through the difficult environment to create the community it is today. Featuring a date museum, memorial date and Japanese garden and the oldest cork oak tree in the desert. 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio. 760-342-6651, cvhm.org Desert Ice Castle The coolest place in the desert is this NHL regulation-sized skating rink. Open to the public for recreational, figure skating and hockey. 68600 Perez Road, Cathedral City. 760-324-0400, deserticecastle.com Escape Games at The River It may look like an ordinary room, but it’s actually a reallife adventure game designed for small groups of friends, families and co-workers. Find the hidden objects, figure out the clues and solve the puzzles to earn your freedom and “Escape the Room.” 71800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-668-9041, escapegamesattheriver.com
March 2020
attractions
Photo courtesy of Boomers!
Escape Room Palm Springs Choose from six themed rooms, good for all ages. You have 60 minutes to search for clues, solve puzzles and achieve your goal before time runs out. 2500 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-779-8888, escapeps.com Get Air Trampoline Park A combination of amusement and exercise in a spacious indoor trampoline park. Featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, dunk lanes and a ninja course. 34450 Gateway Drive, Palm Desert. 760-206-7211, getairpalmdesert.com The Living Desert Representing the desert environments of North America and Africa. With more than 1,200 protected acres, 450 wild animals, live animal shows, kids’ play park, tranquil gardens, model train exhibit, hiking trails, tram rides and more, visitors experience an oasis of family fun. 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. 760-346-5694, livingdesert.org Magic Jungle Wildlife Preserve An extraordinary opportunity to view critically endangered species on a pristine desert oasis with views of sweeping mountain vistas. See endangered Siberian tigers, black Asian and Florida panthers and golden Asian panthers at this wildlife safari adventure. themagicjunglewildlifepreserve.org Moorten Botanical Garden Home to more than 3,000 desert cacti and other plants, the garden is a hidden treasure. You’ll find thousands of species of succulents and cactus growing together from all over the world. 1701 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-327-6555, moortenbotanicalgarden.com Palm Springs Air Museum Visitors can get up close to vintage World War II and Korea/Vietnam era aircrafts at the Palm Springs Air Museum. More than 40 flyable and static planes are on display inside three climate-controlled hangars totaling 65,000 square feet and outside on the tarmac. Visitors can tour the interior of a flyable B-17 and C-47 (when not flying). CNN Travel named the air museum one of the top 14 aviation museums in the world in 2014. 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. 760-778-6262, palmspringsairmuseum.org Palm Springs Aerial Tramway The world’s largest rotating tram car travels over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting riders to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. During your approximately ten-minute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offering picturesque and spectacular vistas of the valley floor below. Once you reach the Mountain Station—elevation 8,516 feet—enjoy two restaurants, observation decks, natural history museum, two documentary theaters, gift shop and over 50 miles of hiking trails. 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-4537, pstramway.com
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attractions Palm Springs Art Museum The museum’s extensive permanent collection includes significant works by western, contemporary and glass artists, and features temporary exhibitions from internationally acclaimed artists. Year round hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays noon to 8 p.m. Closed Wednesdays and major holidays. 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. 760-322-4800, psmuseum.org Shields Date Garden Shields’ famous date groves provide an assortment of dates, as well as their famous date shakes, date ice cream and citrus. See the free movie “The Romance and Sex Life of the Date” after a walk through the biblical garden path on the 17-acre date farm, or enjoy a meal at the patio café. 80225 Highway 111, Indio. 760-347-0996, shieldsdategarden.com
Photo courtesy of The Living Desert
Sunnylands Center & Gardens Enjoy sculpture from the Sunnylands Collection as well as a rotating exhibition. There is a film and other offerings about the history of Sunnylands and its founders. Sunnylands also features free public programs, walks and activities for familes are offered on a regular basis. 37977 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage.760-328-2829, sunnylands.org Uprising Adventure Guides Giving the people the opportunity to climb, explore their surroundings and experience Joshua Tree National Park. 8332 Fleur Dr, Joshua Tree. 888-CLIMB-ON, joshuatreeuprising.com
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Photo by James Burnett, courtesy of Sunnylands Center & Gardens
March 2020
the great outdoors
Let’s Hike
Places to stretch your legs Amboy Crater Formed of ash and cinders, the 250-foot-high Amboy Crater rises from one of the youngest volcanic fields in the United States. A hiking trail winds to the rim with rest stations along the way. If you make it to the top, you’ll see the breach where lava poured out over 24 square miles, creating a landscape of dried lava lakes, collapsed lava tubes and sinks, spatter cones and massive flows of basalt. This can be a dangerous area. Don’t venture out in the heat, bring a gallon of water per person per day, hike with a partner and always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Crater Road eight miles off National Trails Highway. blm.gov/visit/amboy-crater Bear Creek Oasis Trail 8 miles in and out, with an elevation rise of 1,989 feet. Considered strenuous. From the Cove Oasis trailhead at the top of La Quinta Cove, follow Bear Creek Canyon to where the trail leaves the sandy wash. Follow the signs. Hikers on this trail enjoy the beautiful palm oasis at the end. Bump and Grind Trail 3 mile loop with an elevation rise of 523 feet. This trail is probably the most popular trail in the desert and frequented by exercisers who start behind Desert Crossings shopping center in Palm Desert. Clara Burgess Trail 4.4 miles round trip with an elevation of 1,339 feet. The trail is the only route to the summit of Murray Hill, a prominent conical peak just south of Palm Springs. It is best seen when heading south on Gene Autry Trail and, although it is only a couple miles to the peak, it is strenuous with a steep incline.
Visitors can enjoy fantastic views of the Joshua Tree National Park while hiking, camping or exploring the town. Only a 45 minute drive from Palm Springs to a unique environment and community.
Eisenhower Peak Loop 6 mile loop with an elevation gain of 700 feet. This trail is considered moderate and is part of the Living Desert preserve (admission fee required) in Palm Desert. The trail begins at the eastern edge of the Living Desert and takes hikers toward Eisenhower Peak. The trail is a good representation of desert terrain and makes a perfect beginning to a Living Desert tour. Giant Rock The largest freestanding boulder in the Mojave Desert, Giant Rock covers 5,800 square feet of ground and stands seven stories high off the ground at its highest point. Native Americans once considered it sacred, and in the 1930s German immigrant Frank Critzer dug a space under the rock to live in. One of Critzer’s friends later said he was contacted by aliens there. Today, the rock is a popular tourist destination and a photo opportunity for visitors from across the globe. Past Belfield Boulevard in Landers Joshua Tree National Park Characterized by its huge rock formations and immense Joshua tree forest, the national park lies where the Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado Desert. Hike through the trails that weave through the Hidden Valley, travel to Keys View and look out over the Coachella Valley or bring your rock climbing equipment and scale some of the most interesting geological formations in the California desert. nps.gov/jotr Lake Cahuilla Just six miles from Old Town La Quinta, the 710-acre park at the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains offers a great outdoor family day with hiking, coupled with a host of recreational selections ranging from shore fishing to horseback riding. Museum Trail 2 miles round trip with an elevation change of around 1,000 feet. This hike is quite strenuous because of the rapid incline. The trailhead is just behind the museum off Palm Canyon Drive in Downtown Palm Springs. Turn around at the picnic tables. Randall Henderson Trail 2.4 mile loop with a gently rising elevation change of 423 feet. This easy trail offers a good introduction to desert hiking for the novice. It starts and ends at the National Monument Visitor Center in Palm Desert on Highway 74. Check the Visitor Center for guided hikes during the winter season. South Lykken Trail 4.4 miles with an elevation of just over 1,000 feet. This is considered strenuous and the north end of the trail starts at the west end of Mesquite Road, just south of downtown Palm Springs off South Palm Canyon Drive. There is no parking at the trailhead, but street parking is available. The hike is pretty strenuous for the first mile or so and then it levels off and one gets a great view of the Indian Canyons golf courses and South Palm Canyon communities. It is a beautiful hike and ends along South Palm Canyon Drive towards Indian Canyon. You will need to have vehicles at both ends.
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