Media Contact:

David Perry & Associates, Inc.
David Perry / (415) 676-7007/ news@davidperry.com

Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival Celebrates Full Weekend of Events

Kayla McCarty, writer of SEVEN, wins Lucie Arnaz Awards and advances to NYC’s Jimmy Awards

3 June 2025 — Palm Springs, CA: Curtain up! Light the lights! The Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival (PSYPF) hits the heights with an exciting weekend of activities celebrating its talented student playwrights, including a rehearsal, reception, and final staged readings of the winning plays. Highlighting the weekend is Kayla McCarty, author of SEVEN, who was just named a winner of the prestigious Lucie Arnaz Awards and will now represent the region at the national Jimmy Awards in New York City.

The weekend begins on Saturday, June 7, with a rehearsal for all participants at the Kimpton Rowan Hotel (100 W. Tahquitz Way in downtown Palm Springs). Following the rehearsal, a Reception will be held from 5pm – 7pm.  This casual event will bring together the festival’s playwrights, cast, and sponsors for conversation and camaraderie with passed hors d’oeuvres, a full bar, and soft drinks.  

On Sunday, June 8, the Festival’s signature event takes place: a live performance of the winning plays beginning promptly at 12pm at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (2300 E. Baristo Street). The event is open to the public. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the following link: https://m.bpt.me/event/6581051

“We are immensely proud of our student playwrights,” said David Youse, PSYPF Founder and Producer. “Kayla McCarty’s advancement to the Jimmy Awards is a testament to the caliber of talent our festival is privileged to foster. This weekend’s events celebrate not only the artistic achievements of these young voices but also the supportive community that champions them.”

Youse is a veteran actor and producer whose extensive TV credits include Chicago Hope, The Young and the Restless, Criminal Minds, and Torchwood. Through his company Four Things Productions, Youse has raised significant funds for nonprofit organizations with high-profile staged readings such as The Normal Heart (directed by Joel Grey) and Steel Magnolias (directed by Judith Ivey).

The Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival exists to encourage and support the development of young playwrights in the Coachella Valley and beyond. Through mentorship, staged readings, and engagement with professional actors and directors, the Festival gives students a unique opportunity to have their voices heard and their work developed in a professional artistic setting.  Gregory Jbara (Blue Bloods, Billy Elliot the Musical-Tony winner), Laura Marano (Austin & Ally), David Lambert (The Fosters) and Daniel DiMaggio (American Housewife) are just a few of the actors participating in this year’s festival.  

This year’s two winning plays are SEVEN by Kayla McCarty and THE KELLOGG MURDERS by Peyton Taylor.  SEVEN explores the haunting stillness of purgatory, where seven souls must confront the weight of their sins. Only one can rise toward grace, while the others descend into darkness.  THE KELLOGG MURDERS by Taylor is a dark comedy in which jealous cereal mascots Corn Flakes and Wheaties embark on a revenge-fueled spree against their sugary competitors — until a determined investigator begins connecting the crumbs.

Both plays are under the mentorship of seasoned television producer, director, Jack Kenny (WandaVision, The Book of Daniel), whose expert guidance has helped shape the student works into fully realized theatrical productions. As the Festival’s longtime artistic mentor, Kenny continues to play a key role in elevating the work of these emerging playwrights and empowering them to find their creative voice on stage.

For more information about the Festival, visit www.psypf.org

media contact: 
David Perry & Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Porchfest Nights June 25, July 30 and August 27 
Adds Intimate Musical Flavor to Benicia’s Sound Scene

Three Exclusive Wednesday Evening Events Set Stage for Second Annual Porchfest Benicia Taking Place Saturday, September 13
www.porchfest-benicia.com

3 June 2025 – Benicia, CA: Looking for something to liven up the mid-week hump day? As the buzz builds for the second annual Porchfest Benicia taking place on Saturday, September 13,  the folks at Benicia Magazine (www.beniciamagazine.com) are launching something new—and a bit more intimate—to kick off the season: Porchfest Nights: Wednesday eveningsJune 25, July 30 and August 27.  A series of three exclusive evenings of music, connection, and community, Porchfest Nights is being held at The Escape (4588 East Second Street, Suite E) in the Benicia Industrial Park. Tickets for both Porchfest Nights can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/porchfest-nights-beso-negro-tickets-1389891194979

“Last year’s Porchfest Benicia brought more than 10,000 music lovers to our streets,” said Mary Hand, publisher of Benicia Magazine and the creative spirit behind both Porchfest and Porchfest Nights. “Now, with Porchfest Nights, we’re offering a more up-close-and-personal taste of the talent that makes our town sing—literally.”

Porchfest Nights will take place on three Wednesday evenings—June 25, July 30, and August 27—with doors opening at 6:00pm and music from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. After the music, audiences will have the chance to meet the artists in casual post-performance gatherings. Tickets are $18 and include the meet-and-greet. Beer and wine will be available for purchase.

The first Porchfest Nights concert, on Wednesday, June 25, features a special duo performance by members of Beso Negro, the Bay Area’s beloved gypsy rockers. Additional Porchfest Nights artists will be announced shortly.

“This year’s inaugural Porchfest Benicia highlighted the best of what the city has to offer, blending music, history, and local flavor into a memorable celebration for all,” Hand continues. “With Porchfest Nights, we’re keeping that energy going—and raising vital funds to ensure Porchfest Benicia continues to thrive.”

Proceeds from Porchfest Nights support the production of Porchfest Benicia 2025, which returns to First Street and historic neighborhoods on Saturday, September 13, with performances from 1:00–5:00pm following a noontime preshow. Last year’s inaugural event drew thousands of attendees, transforming Benicia into a regional music hot spot.

“The Rotary Club of Benicia is acting as Porchfest Benicia and Porchfest Nights’ 501c3 partner,” Hand noted.  “So, we can accept donations and you can have a tax write off. Everybody wins!”

As Benicia Mayor Steve Young summed it up last year: “This festival has truly captured the heart of Benicia. It’s more than just a music event – it’s a community experience.”

For tickets, event updates, and information on Porchfest Benicia and Porchfest Nights, visit: www.porchfest-benicia.com

Washington DC was my home and center of my life for 8 years. My first job was at the National Endowment for the Arts at the Old Post Office Pavilion (now a hotel but at least no longer “that” hotel) when Anthony Turney was Deputy Chairman. It, and him, changed my life. My immediate boss was the legendary figure Marvin Liebman. Both would be appalled at our present political reality and the pall cast over what used to be such a welcoming city. 

I’m looking forward to traipsing through my old haunts around Dupont Circle, but mainly I’m proud that David Perry & Associates Inc. is representing the International Pride Orchestra under the leadership of Michael Roest and all their fine out-and-proud musicians for their concert this Thursday at Strathmore for World Pride . We — and they — will never stop the music.

media contact: David Perry & Associates, Inc. / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Note for Media: A limited number of press comps are available for the performance, as are interview opportunities. Please contact David Perry / cell: (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com for more information

This Thursday, June 5: International Pride Orchestra’s Pride Celebration Concert Take Place at Strathmore

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC Joins Roster in Solidarity for a Powerful Night of Music, Advocacy, and Pride

3 June 2025 — Bethesda, MD: The International Pride Orchestra presents its one-night-only Pride Celebration Concert at the Strathmore Music Center in Bethesda, Maryland this Thursday, June 5 at 7:30pm. The concert features an electrifying lineup of LGBTQ+ artists, with proceeds supporting Whitman-Walker, the D.C.-based healthcare and advocacy organization. 

The International Pride Orchestra unites LGBTQ+ musicians and allies from around the world to present concerts, celebrate community, and raise awareness for organizations that uplift the queer community. They will be joined on stage by the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC (GMCW), a renowned ensemble that uses the power of music and education to inspire equality, promote justice, and affirm the dignity of all people.

“We are delighted and honored to join the International Pride Orchestra for this historic concert at Strathmore,” said GMCW’s Artistic Director Dr. Thea Kano. “Coming together in a space that uplifts our shared values and celebrates the unifying power of music makes this collaboration especially meaningful during WorldPride, as we honor the strength, resilience, and joy of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Presented as an official part of WorldPride DC and in partnership with Capital Pride Alliance, this landmark performance brings together artists, audiences, and advocates in support of Whitman-Walker. A part of the fabric of D.C. and a national leader in the LGBTQ+ community for more than 50 years, Whitman-Walker provides health and legal services to 20,000 patients each year and conducts lifesaving research focused on HIV, cancer, substance use, and other chronic illnesses.

Dr. Heather Aaron, CEO of Whitman-Walker Health System, and Naseem Shafi, Esq., CEO of Whitman-Walker Health, shared: “We thank the International Pride Orchestra and all the performers for sharing their talents in support of essential health care and lifesaving research. At a time when the services and research we provide to thousands of patients are at risk, it is more important than ever to be visible and united. The arts community has long been a steadfast ally, and we are especially honored to celebrate this ongoing partnership as our amazing city hosts WorldPride.”

The program will be led by a distinguished roster of conductors, including Bonnie Alger, Dr. Thea Kano, Robert Moody, and IPO founder Michael Roest. Together, they will lead the orchestra and chorus in a concert featuring works by Jennifer Higdon, Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Clarice Assad, Matthew Felbein, Lynn Ahrens, Pax Ressler, and more.

San Francisco–based drag icon Peaches Christ will take the stage as host, bringing her razor-sharp wit and commanding presence. Featured guest artists include Thorgy Thor, the New York City–based violinist and drag superstar known for her appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8, All Stars Season 3, and TLC’s Dragnificent. Also appearing is acclaimed pianist Sara Davis Buechner, a celebrated soloist and passionate advocate for transgender visibility in the arts.

This concert marks the culmination of a weeklong festival filled with rehearsals and community-building events in queer spaces throughout Washington, D.C. At its core, IPO creates spaces where LGBTQ+ musicians can come together, connect, and belong — a spirit that has been central to the orchestra since its very first gathering.

“When IPO first came together in San Francisco two years ago, those first notes were life-changing,” said Luke Spence, General Manager and trumpet player. “For the first time, we could make music as our full, authentic selves. That kind of freedom shouldn’t feel rare — queer people deserve safety and visibility in every space. Today, in a time of rising hostility, IPO returns not just to celebrate, but to shine a spotlight on our community’s resolve.”

Tickets range from $35 to $75, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Whitman-Walker. For full ticketing details and artist updates, visit strathmore.org or internationalprideorchestra.org.

2025 Concert Details:

When: Thursday, June 5 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Strathmore Music Center, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD
Tickets: $35-75 https://www.strathmore.org/events-tickets/in-the-music-center/international-pride-orchestra-gay-men-s-chorus-of-washington-dc/

Photos & Videos:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1axJKDAA_buqDMP2dGLRHOjhNR35i-RNx?usp=sharing

Media Contact: David Perry / David Perry & Associates, Inc.
(415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition Returns to San Francisco at St. Mary’s Cathedral

Unique, Never-Before-Seen Perspective of Michelangelo’s Masterpieces
Opens to the Public Saturday, June 21

2 June 2025 – SAN FRANCISCO, CA — If you missed the movie Conclave—or, more to the point, the recent election of the first Pope from the United States —this is the next best thing. The internationally acclaimed Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition returns to San Francisco for a three-month summer engagement at the city’s iconic St. Mary’s Cathedral (1111 Gough Street, San Francisco), opening to the public on Saturday, June 21. NOTE: Tickets are only available for advance purchase online. Go to https://chapelsistine.com/exhibits/san-francisco/

Presented by SEE Global Entertainment, the exhibition offers a unique, never-before-seen perspective of Michelangelo’s masterpieces from the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. Using high-definition licensed photography and an innovative printing technique, the ceiling frescoes have been recreated in their original dimensions, allowing visitors to view the art up close—every brushstroke, every hue—without traveling to Rome.

“We’re thrilled to return to San Francisco with Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel,” said Martin Biallas, President & CEO of SEE Global Entertainment, Inc. “This city has embraced unique art experiences, and we’re especially excited to announce that additional exhibitions—including Titanic and The Smurfs—are coming soon to our new venue at Fisherman’s Wharf.”

“This exhibition is an extraordinary opportunity to bring timeless beauty and spiritual significance to people of all backgrounds,” added Mark Silva, Special Events Director, St. Mary’s Cathedral. “We are honored to host this masterwork once again.”

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition has attracted sold-out audiences in cities across the United States, including Chicago, Minneapolis, Charlotte, Charleston, and Atlanta. In San Francisco, visitors will once again enjoy add-on experiences and audio guides for deeper exploration.

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption—known to locals as St. Mary’s Cathedral—is itself an architectural landmark. Built in 1970 after fire destroyed its predecessor, the cathedral incorporates both traditional and modern design and serves as the Mother Church for the Archdiocese of San Francisco.

Produced by Los Angeles-based SEE Global Entertainment, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition holds the exclusive worldwide rights to the fresco reproductions through Bridgeman Images.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and social media posts with the following hashtags: #SEEGlobalSF #SistineChapelExhibit

For more information, visit https://chapelsistine.com

Tickets are now on sale online at https://chapelsistine.com/exhibits/san-francisco/

General Admission
• Adults: $26 weekday, $28 weekend
• Kids: $16 every day
• Military & Student: $18 every day
• Seniors: $24 weekday, $26 weekend

VIP Admission (with special access)
• VIP Adults: $34 weekday, $36 weekend
• VIP Kids: $22 every day
• VIP Military & Student: $24 every day
• VIP Seniors: $32 weekday, $34 weekend

June 21 – September 14, 2025
Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10:30am  – 5:00pm (last entry at 3:30pm)
Duration: 60 to 90 minutes

ABOUT SEE© GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT:
The SEE© Family of Companies represents the finest in themed entertainment. Working with major Hollywood studios, record companies, sports franchises, and legendary individuals, SEE has become the one source for truly great, expansive entertainment. SEE is led by President Martin Biallas, a Hollywood veteran of 30 years. For more info, please visit www.seeglobalentertainment.com and www.martinbiallas.com.

ABOUT ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL:
The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption serves as the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, encompassing San Francisco, Marin, and San Mateo counties. Designed by Pietro Belluschi with engineering consultant Pier Luigi Nervi, the cathedral was dedicated in 1971 and is considered a bold expression of post-Vatican II liturgical architecture. Notable works include Richard Lippold’s baldacchino and bronze sculptures by Enrico Manfredi.