Michael Shaw, Dezart Performs | New Theater Space Transforms Historic Church into Arts Hub

About this episode

Michael Shaw discusses the transformation of a historic church into the new Dezart Playhouse and the future of community arts in Palm Springs.

In this episode of The Desert Scene , Bonnie G. welcomes Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs , to discuss the exciting transformation of a 1957 historic church into the new Dezart Playhouse performance space in Palm Springs . Michael shares how the organization purchased the structure, carefully renovated it while preserving its architectural significance , and successfully opened with a three-night West Side Story in Concert gala featuring a full orchestra and choir. He walks through the challenges, milestones, and community support that fueled the project , as well as what’s still ahead in Phase Two — including a box office, full bar, studio upgrades, and accessible restrooms. Michael also previews Dezart Performs’ upcoming season with Eureka Day , Destroying David , and Love! Valor! Compassion! , plus future plans to host cabaret, opera, and more community arts programming . An uplifting conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the evolution of theater in the Coachella Valley. Takeaways : Dezart Performs purchased and renovated a 1957 church into a theater. West Side Story in Concert launched the new venue with great success. The building is historically…

People in this episode

Host: Bonnie G.

Guest: Michael Shaw

Topics covered

• theater transformation
• community arts
• historic preservation
• performing arts
• upcoming season
• collaboration

Keywords

• Dezart Performs
• Palm Springs
• theater
• West Side Story
• community programming
• historic church
• Eureka Day
• Love! Valor! Compassion!
• performing arts

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Dezart Performs

Books & works: West Side Story, Eureka Day, Destroying David, Love! Valor! Compassion!

Places: Palm Springs, Coachella Valley

More episodes of The Desert Scene

• Greg Hicks, Producer | Broadway Legends Unite For Sondheim Tribute · February 12, 2026 · 10 min
• Craig Wells, Director, Destroying David | Art, Humanity, and a Timeless Flaw · February 7, 2026 · 10 min
• Estee Graham, Vocalist | Romantic Jazz Fundraiser Fuels Community Music · January 31, 2026 · 10 min
• Siobhan Velarde, Performer | A Journey Through Blues, Theater, and Creative Resilience · January 21, 2026 · 9 min
• Luke Yankee, Event Producer | Honoring a Legendary Actress Through Film Memories · January 14, 2026 · 10 min
• Eric Frankson, Well In The Desert | Community Benefit Concert Reimagined to Fight Hunger and Homelessness · January 7, 2026 · 9 min