The foyer was a buzz with the electric excitement of nominees, their family member, friends and lots of fans. Guests were serenaded by the angelic and lovely  on her harp. V.J. herself was nominated for awards in two categories: Best Supporting Actress in the Drama, “Bill W. & Dr. Bob” as “Ann Smith” the wife of Dr. Bob and as “Fesk” the Jester in Shakespear’s “Twelfth Night.” This was possibly a first in Theatre for this part of “Fesk” to be played by a woman. Shhh!, we can’t tell which one she won the Desert Star Award for, you will have to read on.

I was honored to meet so many of the night’s nominees, each so graciously spoke with me and had their photos taken for our photo gallery of the evening’s festivities. They were all beautiful and graceful examples of what made this night so special and theater in our area, great.

At the entrance to the auditorium guests were welcomed by the friendly volunteers and members of the Desert Theatre League. Each guest was graciously presented with the beautiful event program booklet as they entered the auditorium for the awards ceremony.

Derik Shopinski, President of Desert Theatre League, warmly welcomed all in attendance to the Annual Desert Star Awards this night. Derik is quite a diverse, multifaceted talent himself and was the recipient of multiple awards this evening. You will still have to read on to find out which ones.

Gary Shaw, the debonnaire and engaging host of the evening, announced the nominees with his unmistakable deep and almost growling baritone voice. Gary, an L.A. radio editor and personality for KPFK 90.7, has appeared in numerous stage productions, including the Palm Canyon Theater’s highly successful production of “Oklahoma!”

Desert Star Award Nominees were chosen from productions throughout the Coachella Valley and High Desert Theatres.

The categories included Outstanding Productions in:
Ballet, Youth Theater, Cabaret/Revue/One Man-One Woman/Variety Show,
Professional and Amateur, Drama, Comedy, Musical/Opera/Pageant productions both Youth and Adult.

There were also awards for Outstanding:
Directors, Choreographers, Set Design, Lighting, Musical Directors, Costume Designers,
Lead and Supporting Actors/Actresses/ Dancers (Youth and Adult).

Songs from several of the nominated productions were performed throughout the evening’s presentations. “Quando M’en Vo” from “La Boheme,” was performed beautifully by Jessie Massoudi. “Somethings Are Meant to Be” from “Little Women” was performed by the very talented and lively Victoria Avalon-Ingram and Kaley Smith. “Yours, Yours, Yours” from “1776,” was performed so poignantly by Julie Rosser and Tom Warrick. “You Must Love Me” from “Evita,” performed so expressively by Kaley Smith. “My Lord and Master” from “The King and I,” was performed so dynamically by Jennifer Singer (Wow, was the audience’s response.) “Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’” from “Oklahoma!” was performed so dreamily by David Boyd. 

The Sidney Harmon Award is given to a Coachella Valley resident in recognition of the advancement of Theatrical Excellence, both on and off the stage. Presentation was made by Derik Shopinski and given to Derrick Lewis. The awards was sponsored by Rocky Blumhagen and Richard Royse in loving memory of the late, but unforgettable Victor Leon. Leon was lauded for being a strong force in promoting the idea of synergy in Theatre by supporting your fellow actors and attending each others performances.

The Bill Kuhlman Award recognizes the “unsung heroes” of Theatre production, whose greatest performances and contributions may never be seen in the footlights, but without whom, those footlights would never burn. Presentation was made by Tony Bogard and was given to our own Palm Springs Guides, Theatre and Cinema Critic and Reviewer, Jack Lyons. The award was sponsored by Jim Ollinger. We, of course, are very proud and honored to support Mr. Jack Lyons as he is a passionate force in supporting, reviewing and encouraging Live Theater here in the Palm Springs-CoachellaValley and Hi-Desert. To be present and witness this award presentation was exciting and rewarding to us all.

The Joan Woodbury Mitchell Award is given to an area resident who exemplifies the motivation required to get Theatre done and who inspires that effort in other individuals and producing organizations. Presentation was made by V.J. Hume to Paul Gregory.

The highlight of the night was the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented by Desert Theater League Board Member Ted Pethes to Kaye Ballard. Pethes told the audience that two words most aptly describe Kaye Ballard, “Role Model.” Kaye took the stage and told the audience, “I’m so proud of the Coachella Valley and its talent... Jarrod Radnich and Craig Knudsen, you changed my attitude of the High Desert...There is nothing more exciting than doing live Theatre. I love you and am very proud of every single on of you! Keep Live Theatre going!” This was followed by a loving and appreciative standing ovation from the audience. This Wednesday, Kay shared that she will be 84 years young! Many more healthy and happy birthdays to you, Kaye, we adore you!

A big congratulation to each of the night’s nominees and winners for their outstanding work and dedication to being a significant part of the Theatre community.