February Appearances 2026

#11 - R.I.P. Neil Sedaka (3.13.1939-2.27.2026) Such a gifted singer, songwriter and pianist. Worked w/ him quite a bit, remember the Illinois State Fair in particular. Sang a Sedaka Medley in my show for years. He was right, "Breaking Up W/ Him will truly be HARD TO DO."

#10 - Feb., 26 - Opening night at CVRep for the stellar production of "Guys and Dolls". beautifully directed by Adam Karsten, choreographed by Karen Sieber and under the musical direction of Stephen Hulsey, the electricity crackled instantly between the stage and the audience. Having performed this show myself - in more than one role - I was struck by the freshness of the demanding choreography and the artistry of the commendable vocal performances. The Joey English 5 chocolate Hershey kisses award goes to the ensemble cast, (a rare occurrence in any production), the imaginative sets, beautiful costumes and the flawless off-stage orchestra - plus the food from Willie Rhine. Don't miss this joyful re-visitation of a true musical classic. www.cvrep.org.

#9 – Feb. 24 – The Revolution Stage Company’s charming “Open Mic Night,” hosted by the gifted Michael Orland, was a lovely reminder of just how much talent lives right here in our community — some familiar, some newly discovered. Every kind of performance you might imagine (and a few surprises), with definite standouts, all seamlessly woven together by Michael’s piano artistry and perfectly timed comedic one-liners. Don’t miss this monthly gathering filled with friends, families, and enthusiastic well-wishers.

www.revolutionstagecompany.com

#8 - Feb., 21 - DAP Health’s glorious celebration at the Palm Springs Convention Center sparkled under the banner, “Driven by Purpose, Fueled by You.” A sold-out crowd, glittering fashions, gracious speakers, spirited auctions, and delicious cuisine framed an evening centered on compassion and community. With a most deserving honoree, Lisa Middleton, and a room filled with generosity, the mission was unmistakable — caring for countless individuals who rely on DAP Health’s unwavering commitment. Kudos to C.E.O. David Brinkman and the entire DAP Team. Blessings on so many levels.

www.daphealth.org/thechase

#7 - Feb., 19 - Thrilled to serve as a Media Sponsor for Momentous Event's grand production of The Desert Symphony Gala starring Broadway Legend and Tony Award Winner Bernadette Peters at the Agua Caliente Casino, Rancho Mirage. For nearly ninety minutes, Bernadette dazzled the VIP audience that included Bob Mackie, Michael Childers, delivering impeccable comedic timing, astonishing vocal range, and masterful interpretations across genres. Absolutely radiant at 77 in a figure-hugging gown, she even turned a trip-and-fall moment into charm, never missing a beat or a note.. The Desert Symphony sparkled under the baton of Dean Anderson proving once again why this orchestra continues to elevate the cultural heartbeat of the desert.. Bravo to Ex., Dir., Debbie Shapiro and her outstanding team for an evening of polish, passion, and pure Broadway magic. Don't miss their next concert March 11. www.desertsymphony.org. Photo of Miss Peters courtesy of Lani Garfield.

#6 - Feb., 17 - Some experiences just don't fit inside language AND conducting the Palm Springs Symphony @ the Plaza Theatre was one of them for me. After "borrowing" the baton from Maestro Thomas Hartley to do something I've done all my life, it was still a glorious thrill to help create such emotion in real time w/ these gifted musicians. There are three more opportunities this Season to experience their magnificent sound for yourselves. March 31, May 9 and July 4. www.palmsprings-symphony.org.

#5 - Feb., 14 - Really "en-joey'd" (lol) The Revolution Stage Company's production of "Pippin". After seeing it on Broadway starring Ben Vereen, I was not sure what to expect - but I was delightfully impressed at the truly incredible dancing, singing, acting and technical wizardry of this large and talented cast. Kudos to Nathan Wilson who directed, choreographed AND served as the charismatic Leading Player - "guiding" those of use behind the fourth wall through this magical production. Bruno Satalino as "Pippin" showcased strong vocals and held his own during the signature Bob Fosse dancing style alongside Wilson. "Pippin" plays through March 1. Don't miss it, - there's "Magic to do". www.revolutionstagecompany.com.

#4 - Feb., 14 - Happy Valentine's Day from our home to yours. What a perfect day to "Wear Red and Eat Chocolate". Blessings.

#3 - Remembering my Paternal Grandmother, Ilda Cecilia Widner Marquis, on what would have been her 133rd bday. Miss you every day Mimi. (2.14.1893-4.15.1975)

#2 - Feb. 7 - Privileged to be the Palm Springs Air Museum as the guest of Dick Shalhoub (Chairman of the Board, emcee and stand-up comic in training) and lovely Tracy Smith for the GALA 2026, "HONORING CHARACTER, REMEMBERING COURAGE" for the 50 Anniversary of the Ending of the Vietnam War. Produced by Frank Golstin and "MOMENTOUS EVENTS" this was a whole box of Kleenax evening for me as the Mom of three children who all had military experiences. The flags, the anthem, the videos, the processional, but especially the testimonials of the honorees, graciously presented by Master of Ceremony Joe Montegna that topped a perfect patriotic presentation. The live auction "called" by the Museum's own Fred Bell,..... AND of course, the food - fed to the over 1,000 attendees by Jerry Keller's "LuLu" had everyone leaving fully grateful ON SO MANY LEVELS. www.palmspringsairmuseum.org and www.PhotosByLani.com.

#1 - Feb. 6 marked opening night for Palm Canyon Theatre’s production of the American Tribal Love-Rock Musical HAIR. The attentive audience was taken back to the 1960s through the familiar songs, costumes, and dialogue of the “Age of Aquarius.” Directed by Luke Rainey, the large cast led us on a time-traveled journey touching on drugs, sex, and the Vietnam War, with nearly non-stop music under the direction of musical director Steven Smith. While the production delivers the spirit and message of HAIR, much of its content still rings true in light of many similar issues facing society today, resonating more as a nostalgic reminder than a revelatory reinvention. Now, where are those bell-bottoms?! HAIR runs through March 1. www.palmcanyontheatre.net