Experience
DESERT THEATREWORKS
Desert Theatreworks was organized for the benefit of members of the community to provide education, entertainment and exposure to cultural experiences. The objective for the theatre company is to become a resource for both the residents and visitors to the Coachella Valley to enrich the cultural depth and education of the community at large. Desert Theatreworks will strive to present imaginative, innovative, and entertaining plays and musicals for the entire community. An effort will also be made to bring to life works that are rarely produced.
Tootsie
​DTW Main Stage • March 7 - March 30, 2025
Dive into the uproarious world of TOOTSIE, dubbed "musical comedy heaven" by Rolling Stone and "the most uproarious new musical in years!" by The Hollywood Reporter. This laugh-out-loud extravaganza, inspired by the beloved Academy Award-winning film starring Dustin Hoffman, is a heartfelt love letter to the stage. Meet Michael Dorsey, a talented actor whose knack for job-hopping is legendary. When faced with the ultimate career crisis, Michael concocts a harebrained scheme: transform into the fabulous actress Dorothy Michaels. Suddenly, Michael finds himself on a wild Broadway adventure, winning hearts, stealing scenes, and even catching feelings for his leading lady, Julie. But as the curtain rises on this comedic caper, Michael soon discovers that juggling dual identities is no easy feat. Join us for a whirlwind of comedy, romance, and theatrical shenanigans in TOOTSIE!
The Diary Of Anne Frank
Blackbox Theater • April 4 - April 13, 2025
This new adaptation of the classic Broadway play interweaves firsthand survivor accounts with recently discovered excerpts from Anne Frank's diary, creating a modern and emotionally charged narrative of the Nazi era. Anne Frank is portrayed not just as a historical figure, but as a vibrant and talented young girl who confronts the challenges of her time with honesty, humor, and determination. Set in a hidden attic where eight individuals seek refuge from Nazi persecution, "The Diary of Anne Frank" vividly captures the daily struggles and emotions of their existence – from fear and hope to laughter and sorrow.
Anne's voice echoes throughout the narrative, expressing her desire to use her writing to transcend personal troubles and bring joy to others, even strangers. Crafted for a contemporary audience, this adaptation pays homage to Anne's enduring spirit and her message of resilience.
Gift Certificates
A performance of any production at Desert TheatreWorks makes a wonderful gift for your mom, your BFF, your sweetheart… for ANYONE! Gift certificates to DTW may be purchased in any amount and redeemed for tickets to any show performed at DTW or used toward a Season Package. You can also use it to purchase an item from our DTW Swag Shop.
ArtsWorks is a specialized program designed for Senior performers. We invite adults to engage in performing arts without memorization and rigorous rehearsals. ArtsWorks inspires creative expression, social connection, and personal growth through a variety of performing arts activities tailored specifically for their needs. From play readings to singing sessions, This program offers seniors the opportunity to stay active, boost cognitive function, and forge meaningful connections within a supportive community.
All play readings are performed in the DTW Blackbox on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 730pm.
Straight White Men
A Staged Reading by Young Jean Lee
March 25 & 26
When Ed and his three adult sons come together to celebrate Christmas, they enjoy cheerful trash-talking, pranks, and takeout Chinese. Then they confront a problem that even being a happy family can’t solve: When identity matters, and privilege is problematic, what is the value of being a straight white man?
Gladys in Wonderland
A Staged Reading by Keith Hamilton Cobb
April 29 & 30
87-year-old Gladys' days of munching donuts and scouring the obituaries seem numbered when Death himself comes knocking on her door one morning. Ready to whisk her off into the great unknown, her cheerful grim reaper is startled by Gladys' stubborn refusal to expire. In order to push Gladys toward the light, he ushers in a parade of obnoxious friends and relatives who nitpick and whine. He also gives her a taste of nursing home life from an inmate's point of view. Suddenly, the afterlife doesn't look so bad
ASL Performances
As a service to our deaf and hard of hearing friends in the Coachella Valley, DTW has partnered with C4 Communication and will be providing ASL Interpreters at the following performances listed below.
Click on the show to purchase tickets