DEZART THEATRE

Dezart Performs, one of the Coachella Valley’s preeminent theatre companies, recognizes that the performing arts enrich the life and culture of a community, promote greater understanding and provoke insightful discussion. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit theatre company, its mission is to provide an artistic home for bold and cutting‐edge plays, creating an atmosphere of artistic growth for actors, writers, and directors who uniquely contribute to the diverse theatrical environment in the Coachella Valley.

Dezart Performs was founded in 2008 by Michael Shaw and Daniela Ryan at the Dezart One Gallery in the Backstreet Art District. Play readings of new works were performed in the main gallery with the actors and audience surrounded by art. Audience members were encouraged to vote on their favorite play, and that play was then produced the following season with a limited set, a few props and minimal lighting. In 2011, the gallery closed, and Dezart Performs moved to the Pearl McManus Theatre at the historic Palm Springs Woman’s Club, where they currently perform.

Designed by KAP Studios, the new venue will include a flexible theatre that utilizes telescopic seating to create multiple configurations, from proscenium, to thrust, to flat floor cabaret experiences. Performer support spaces will include dressing rooms, artist green room, and backstage restrooms. Front of house amenities include restrooms, lobby spaces, full bar, box office, and an outdoor patio lounge.

TheatreDNA provided full theatre planning, theatre design, and performance equipment design and specification services.