Where to See Live Theater in Greater Palm Springs
There’s a creative renaissance happening in the Palm Springs’ live theater scene, and audiences are reaping the rewards. New spaces, new directors, new companies… there’s never been a better time to spend an evening watching live theater in the desert. Whether you want to see a thought-provoking drama or a cheery musical, here’s a roundup of places to see live theater in Greater Palm Springs.
Known locally as CVRep, Coachella Valley Repertory has undergone an exciting transformation under its new artistic director, Adam Karsten. Fresh from NYC, he’s committed to bringing in some incredible shows and top talent to this professional Equity theatre company. Located in nearby Cathedral City, CVRep’s performance space used to be an iMax theater, so there’s not a bad seat in the house. The current season has been amazing!
The Bent is a new LGBTQ+ theater company dedicated to resourcing queer talent and telling stories that resonate with our community. Currently performing downtown at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, The Bent’s recent offerings have included everything from premiering original works to staging gay classics like “The Boys in the Band.”
Newcomer Revolution Stage Company opened with big plans to bring live theater and entertainment to Palm Springs every day of the week, and they really are doing a masterful job of just that. Cabaret, musical theater, horror, local all-male revue… you never know what you’ll find on their calendar, so it’s always worth a peek. Revolution is quickly earning a well-deserved reputation for hosting entertaining shows with quality performers.
If you’re looking for a true community theater experience, Palm Canyon Theatre delivers on all fronts. Performing out of a former school gymnasium, Palm Springs’ oldest running theatre company is known for its inclusive casts of local performers of all ages and experience levels. PCT produces about 12 shows each season, often big musicals with larger casts to give locals opportunities to perform.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the elegant McCallum Theatre is the place to catch a direct-from-Broadway touring show, world-class musical performances, and big name stand-up comedians. The schedule changes almost nightly, so you never know who might be gracing the stage.
For something a little more under the radar, Dezart Performs may be one of Palm Springs’ best kept secrets. This professional Equity theatre company began in 2008 at a local art gallery and quickly cultivated a salon-style atmosphere. Dezart Performs has since moved into the Pearl McManus Theater at the historic Palm Springs Women’s Club, staging four thought-provoking productions every season (November through April). If you’re lucky enough to be in town during one of their shows, we promise you will not be disappointed!