Desert Drama: A Gay Man’s Guide to Palm Springs’ Local Theater Scene
While Palm Springs may be a gay man’s paradise for poolside lounging and brunching—our little desert city also boasts a dazzling lineup of local theaters that serve up everything from Broadway-level productions to provocative LGBTQ+ works. Whether you’re in the mood for heartfelt drama, sidesplitting comedy, or something refreshingly gay and risqué, Palm Springs is an intriguing cultural oasis you didn’t know you existed. Considering what relatively small towns Palm Springs and our surrounding desert cities are, we have a surprisingly robust theater scene!
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In the meantime, here’s our spotlight on the desert’s theatrical darlings (in alphabetical order) that’ll have you shouting, “Encore!”
Coachella Valley Repertory
Theater Company: Coachella Valley Repertory
Location: 68510 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City
Website: cvrep.org
Show: Next to Normal
About: Coachella Valley Repertory (CV Rep) delivers Broadway-level aspirations in an intimate setting that strives for you to feel the synchronized heartbeats between both the actors and your fellow audience members. With visionary leadership under Adam Karsten, CV Rep is redefining what’s possible in the desert. Their commitment to affordable, high-quality productions and new-works program makes this a must-visit for theater buffs.
Our Experience: Next to Normal left us breathless. Emotional, stirring, and superbly acted, this production rivaled our Broadway memories. There were definitely tears and synchronized sniffles from the crowd.
Desert Ensemble Theatre
Theater Company: Desert Ensemble Theatre
Location: 2300 E Baristo Rd, Palm Springs
Website: desertensembletheatre.org
Show: LOOT
About: Known for innovative storytelling, Desert Ensemble Theatre explores human complexity with award-winning productions. They’re also actively grooming the next generation of thespians through various scholarships and internships.
Our Experience: The black farce LOOT had us smiling with its dark humor abound. The cast balanced absurdity and authenticity, making it an unexpectedly unique experience.
Dezart Performs
Theater Company: Dezart Performs
Location: 314 S Cahuilla Road, Palm Springs
Website: dezartperforms.org
Show: Hillary and Clinton
About: Dezart Performs is the Coachella Valley’s hub for thought-provoking and contemporary plays. Their plans to convert a historic building into a state-of-the-art theater promise exciting things ahead as well.
Our Experience: This alternate-universe tale of Hillary Clinton’s 2008 campaign was witty, sharp, and quite captivating throughout. And seeing fellow Vermonter Craig Wells behind the scenes directing was a bonus as well.
Palm Canyon Theater
Theater Company: Palm Canyon Theater
Location: 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
Website: palmcanyontheatre.net
Show: La Cage aux Folles
About: As the valley’s longest-running theater, Palm Canyon Theater is synonymous with community and creativity. Their lineup features ambitious productions that make the stage a spectacle to behold.
Our Experience: La Cage aux Folles sparkled with charm and relevance, reminding us why this story remains iconic. And Raul Valenzuela’s performance as Jacob was the cherry on top for us.
Revolution Stage Company
Theater Company: Revolution Stage Company
Location: 611 S Palm Canyon Dr Suite 16, Palm Springs
Website: revolutionstagecompany.com
Show: Little Shop of Horrors
About: Revolution Stage Company is transforming Palm Springs into a premier theater destination with fresh takes on beloved classics, bold new works, and diverse concerts as well.
Our Experience: Little Shop of Horrors was a feast for the senses. The puppetry and performances were exceptional, and the energy in the room was electric from beginning to end.
The BENT
Theater Company: The BENT
Location: 2300 E Baristo Rd, Palm Springs
Website: thebent.org
Show: FUCKING MEN
About: The BENT champions LGBTQ+ theater in Palm Springs with a sharp focus on authenticity and representation. Only a few years running, they’ve already made an honorable splash here in the local theater scene.
Our Experience: FUCKING MEN was provocative and heartfelt, exploring themes of love, connection, and good-old-fashioned gay cruising culture. The stellar cast made this a standout experience.
If you’re curious to learn more about all the fun you can have here in Palm Springs and our beautiful Coachella Valley, check out some of our blog favorites, like Best Gay Nightlife in Palm Springs, The Best Sex Shops and Adult Play Gear for Gay Men in Palm Springs, and Escape to Bliss: Best Gay Men's Spas and Spa Resorts in Palm Springs.
With its active theater scene, endless sunshine, and welcoming community, it’s no wonder gay men flock to Palm Springs to relax, connect, and indulge. Whether you’re living your best gay life at one of our fabulous clothing-optional resorts or attending a cutting-edge show, Palm Springs has everything you need for the ultimate getaway. So pack your bags, bring your short-shorts, and prepare for an unforgettable gay desert adventure!
