Debbie King

Perez Art District

Here in the desert there’s always a flurry of fun activity taking place. If I haven’t been on here lately it’s exactly for that reason.

My friend Candy and I, trying to be part of Shelley Heffler’s art installation. We, and the art, are **complex pieces** **of work**.

Got swept off my feet by five guys at a house party. It’s not art, but it is creative skill and imagination.

If it’s not a fashion, music or art event, it’s a new venue, restaurant or book signing. My sister was also here visiting and making contacts. So I’m just catching up. Listen; I’m certainly not complaining about being able to attend these outings; I’m just winding down before the next surge.

After going back to “Wally’s Desert Turtle” (yes; that’s the name of a popular restaurant in Rancho Mirage) for a Friday fashion luncheon, a few of our group of women decided to check out the Perez Art District. It was a first visit for some of these full time residents.

L-R: Mini, Tammy, Kathy, Debbie, Libby, Candy. You can consider the food here a work of art and taste.

I’ve driven by Perez Rd. countless times but had no idea that just around the corner (and a bit) from this Industrial area with offices and car dealerships, lies over 40 art studios and galleries.

On the fourth Friday of every month from 4-7 pm, Desert Open Studios on Perez holds an Art Walk where you can see artists practicing in their workspaces. Walk around, visit the studios and learn about their processes, and buy art directly. There really is something for everyone. Plus, it’s dog friendly (always a plus.)

I enjoyed meeting several local artists along with friends Candy and Libby. We didn’t get to visit every gallery, but there are more Fridays coming up to explore the rest. We loved exploring the studios.

One artist who stood out for us was Shelley Heffler.

Her contemporary art studio contains sustainable art. Shelley is deeply committed to raising awareness about the environment through her unique art form –which is collecting discarded advertising banners and turning them into captivating works of art that can withstand all weather. Through meticulous hand cutting techniques, she fractures the initial image and repurposes it into beautiful weavings, collages, or three-dimensional sculptures that bear little or no resemblance to the original.

When she’s done they turn into complex abstract pieces with unique color schemes. Her hope is that her pieces not only provoke dialogue but also inspire action. Commissions are welcome. Each new project is an opportunity to further explore the intersection of art and environmental consciousness.

68845 Perez Road, Building H, Studio 14, Cathedral City, CA 92234

https://www.shelleyheffler.com:

Photos: d. king

DESTINATIONS

The Velvet Rope

Old Hollywood-Style charm is personified at a new luxury boutique hotel located in Old Las Palmas, Palm Springs.

Last week I was part of an open house amongst photographers from magazines like “home and garden” and “food and wine;” on site to check out the nine room, glamour-themed suites with names like Playmate, Ricardo and Rat Pack to name a few – at The Velvet Rope.

I was blown away by the attention to detail in each room. Owner/Designer David Rios is a visionary. The “Lavender” suite pays homage to Elizabeth Taylor and in fact Rios told me that the room was modeled after her real bedroom (the bed and dresser at least) when she had a home in Palm Springs. “Candelabra” honours none other than renowned showman Liberace (he also had an over-the-top home here which I had the pleasure of visiting during Modernism open-house years ago). The “Legendary” suite shows the glitz and glamour of the iconic Studio 54 phase. And more…

I’ll let the photos speak for themselves

Did I mention how much I love the bathrooms?

Better than the other way around, right?

A little bit hidden away in a corner of the premises is a door that opens up to a dazzling speakeasy which they’ve named “Club Valerie.” It’s named after an Amy Winehouse song and the cocktails will each be named after one of her songs (“Me & Mrs. Jones?” – I will be intrigued to try whatever is in that one). I wonder if they’ll do a “rehab” and how much alcohol will be in it, if so?

**Bar Valerie** in the afternoon open for viewing. Sequin pillows, old Hollywood movies played on a big screen, dance floor and Burlesque shows to come.

All Photos: d. king

To book:

https://thevelvetropeps.com/

And I can’t let you leave without posting one more…

DESTINATIONS

Miramonte Tommy Bahama Resort – Indian Wells

Relax. Recharge. Rejuvenate. Repeat.

Pictures are worth a thousand words. This one only needs four – all starting with “R” First 4 pics taken from website.

In the true spirit of the Tommy Bahama persona, which is an Island state of mind; I followed that mantra (except for the repeat, to follow), along with two friends right before Christmas. My Christmas present to myself was an 80-minute full body massage at Spa Rosa (on the premises), which included a scalp massage (because hairdressers never do it long enough). It was made to order. It was a luxurious spa treat and the appies that followed were really delish.

The appies that followed: fish tacos were amazing as was the homemade chips/salsa/guacamole & flatbread. Photo: d. king

My friend Miranda (who resides in Seattle when she’s not in Vero Beach, Fla.) was in town to visit her friend Barb who lives in Indian Wells. Miranda and I go way back because she and her hubby Dave were neighbors with me and my late husband Don when we all lived in Toronto (they’re originally from Connecticut). When Don and I moved back to Vancouver, shortly after, she and Dave moved to Seattle. So we were still fairly close in proximity and visited each other and managed to stay in touch throughout the years.

I was so happy when she texted that she’d be in the Palm Springs area and asked if I’d be able to join her and Barb for a spa day at the new Miramonte (Tommy Bahama) resort. Hell, yeah! Because like I always say “it’s great to meet new friends, but getting together with old friends who knew you when is even better.” And doing it at a spa; the best. It was great to re-connect so we’re going to make an effort to make this a more regular occurrence. I sure hope so.

The grounds here are very picturesque as you step into the trademark Tommy Bahama Island lifestyle featuring huge palm tree prints and colourful casual wear with the true essence of relaxation. The boutique reflects the brand perfectly. The restaurant “Grapefruit Basil” is inspired by local, on-property ingredients. We had a sampling after our spa session and everything was excellent. We thought the guac was the best ever.

Chiki Palm is the fun new poolside bar offering poolside service of savory small bites and a paradise of cocktails.

Is it 5 o’clock yet? Doesn’t matter – happy hour is anytime here. Tommy Bahama T-shirt & shorts I already happened to have – pulled them out for the visit.

Spa Rosa (taken from the website):

Using methods and rituals inspired by the healing powers of the surrounding desert and beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the expert team will transport you to an instant state of bliss. With rejuvenating treatments like a massage tailored to your needs to an island state of mind body treatment or our inviting outdoor soaking pools, Spa Rosa presents everything essential for a day of tropical relaxation in the heart of island living.

https://www.tommybahamamiramonte.com/

News

What’s in store for 2024?

Many people say it’s going to be an amazing year. I’m not sure how they know this, but it’s always better to be optimistic. I only hope that it’s better than the one we left behind.

Indian Canyons Golf Course (I don’t golf but I love walking around here). Photo: d. king

I ended the last year dancing away to an amazing live band called “Raincross Drive” at our clubhouse here – along with a surprise visit from an old friend from Vancouver who happened to be in the area. Even though he popped the champagne cork which hit the ceiling and brought down a lighting fixture which fell on the head of a woman who runs the clubhouse, (just a little bump ~~and hopefully only temporary amnesia~~) we all survived the year. These things happen.

I’m trying to think of significant things that happened for me personally in 2023 and I honestly can’t say what they were. Aside from getting Adele (Layla’s litter mate 7 years later) it was mostly business as usual. I’m making an effort to clear up clutter in my home, my closet, my office space again; boooring!. Ended up buying a few things at the vintage market. New Year: out with the old, in with the old.

I spent a very quiet Christmas in Palm Springs which I’m surprisingly pleased turned out to be quite pleasant considering it was minus a tree, presents and people. A first. I managed to make a restaurant worthy dinner for one (and two canines) and realized I can do without all the trappings and over commercialization of Christmas. Having said that, I’m not sure I want to make this a regular yearly event. It’s only one day after all, but it’s a day where everyone tends to celebrate with family and/or friends so it was unusual. But I have to say; it turned out to be pretty okay. I was invited to a friend’s home in Los Angeles but didn’t want to deal with driving in holiday traffic. Now on to 2024:

It’s been a wonderful year so far.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) has begun and so far I’ve seen an excellent documentary “MERCHANT/IVORY.”

**Director Stephen Soucy** (L) for a Q&A afterwards. Unfortunately I don’t remember the interviewers name. Photo: d. king

It’s about legendary Director/Producer duo James Ivory and Ismail Merchant, who made Oscar winning movies like “ROOM WITH A VIEW” and “HOWARDS END” (which many will want to re-visit; but so many other films that you may have not heard of, or maybe forgot about) – all shot in India or America. Fascinating story, footage and interviews with people like Helena Bonham Carter, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant and others. Their collaborative relationship in both life and business lasted more than 40 years. During that time they made 44 films together. (23 of them were scripted by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala from 1927–2013 in some capacity). Real life stories are my favourite and this one was full of brilliance.

After that, a yummy cocktail at a very new and very fabulous speakeasy in an Old Hollywood designed boutique hotel. Located in Old Las Palmas.

The Velvet Rope is owned and designed by David Rios, a local whom I met earlier that day. More about this in a separate post (I took tons of photos as all the rooms were themed and so much fun to visit). Glamour all the way!

Kevin (the bartender) at **Club Valerie**; an elegant Hollywood Regency style speakeasy.

This cocktail was really yummy but doesn’t have a name because this place is so new that the menus are in the process of being printed.

Last night I was invited to a gorgeous private home for viewing the Golden Globe Awards along with a small group of people. The food was delicious and the company; an interesting and creative bunch. Really enjoyed it. What I learned is that there’s really only two degrees of separation, and, if you think you’ve seen all the latest films + TV series on all the various screening platforms; you haven’t! I was shocked at how many I’ve missed or never even heard of. I’m mostly a Netflix/Prime/Crave devotee so, if they’ve been on Apple or Hulu or god knows where else, chances are I haven’t seen it. But I made note of a bunch and might have to add a few more channels. They sure know how to get you!

**Cheers** to a bright new year! Photo by Kevin the bartendar.

Starting the second week of the month with a few new places to check out. If there’s anything of relevance (of course there will be) I’ll share it here – after I get caught up with a couple other things I have yet to share.

I hope this year brings you Peace, Good Health, Good Fortune, Good Food, Good Friends, Good Viewing, Good Reading, Love and Happiness. XO

News

Monday Mood: Tis the Season

Well here we are…

Before leaving on our road trip South, I posted pics of falling leaves and trees in the midst of Autumn in Vancouver. What a difference a few days make…

Here with my friend Miranda at Spa Rosa – Miramonte (Tommy Bahama) Resort located in Indian Wells. More about this in a follow-up post after the New Year.

But now, in just a few more days, it will be officially winter and soon after that, a brand new year. We always say how hard it is to believe how fast a year goes by; but then before we know it, we’re already in it.

Farmers Market, Old Town, La Quinta. Photo: d. king

Since being in Palm Springs for over a month now I’ve enjoyed meeting up with some old friends and a little side trip to L.A.

With my friend Natalia. Pacific Palisades, L.A.

Cocktails with Yvette at Seymour’s Speakeasy, Palm Springs. They make the best. Cheers!

I’m enjoying taking things a bit slower than usual and have not made too many plans (except for a few films during film fest and some events during Modernism week, followed by a couple fashion shows during Fashion Week). These are all spread out and have to be planned in advance otherwise they sell out.

In the meantime I’m partaking in a weekly book club (over video chat), yoga, cocktails and canines… while succeeding to block out the world chaos and chatter that goes along with it.

With friend Ramona at Sunnylands. They have free outdoor yoga every Friday in an amazing setting.

We plan to have a quiet little Christmas. How about you?

beauty

Autumn Leaves

Just a few shots of Vancouver in the Fall

Photos: d. king

FUN

The ART of IMPROV: Saturday Night Laughs

We had an awesome evening last night with the Comedy Department. It was a special Halloween themed night watching improvised performances by seasoned comedians. Plus they handed out candy to their SOLD-OUT audience.

These THEATRE SPORTS & SECOND CITY alumni know that the revival of live Comedy is more welcome than ever before. Making people laugh is a full-time job for them. But it doesn’t come across as a job – as they seem to really enjoy what they do while interacting with the audience.

And they do this in another Vancouver little hidden gem of a night club. Located in an entryway corner of the Park Pub on Davie Street by gorgeous English Bay in the West End. I had no idea it was there since they’ve only been in this location since May. Sidenote: the menu is very good too which is a big plus.

These days you’d have to live in a cave to not be aware of all the tremendous chaos that’s going on in the outside world so if we can fill a few hours with laughter and connection it makes our little world a whole lot better.

The Comedy Department has quickly become the new standard of professional comedy in Vancouver at The Show Cellar with hilarious weekly shows from start to finish. Audiences have come to expect non-stop, fast-paced hilarity and unexpected twists based on audience suggestions, and a uniquely interactive experience that continually receives 5-star reviews on Google and TripAdvisor.

Founded by veteran comedy performers, Denise Jones and David Milchard in 2021.

Photo: Denise Jones and David Milchard, photo by Farrah Aviva

After decades of experience doing live improv comedy shows, performing alongside some of the best comedic giants in North America, Denise and David realized they wanted to make comedy their full-time job and started The Comedy Department. They also craft custom comedy entertainment for corporate galas and special events and bring the improv mindset to the workplace fostering cultures of communication and collaboration.

Comedy Department Co-Creator and Performer, David Milchard has been bringing laughs for 25 years and his passion for it still burns brightly. “During the pandemic I realized something: I can’t live without improv and live shows. And I believe most people underestimate how impactful improv can be. The improv mindset is a powerful tool for communication, connection and growth and I’m driven to help our communities experience the benefits of it.”

It’s with that in mind that the Comedy Department is expanding into improv classes. The Comedy Department is excited to announce upcoming comedy classes designed for everyone, from beginners to seasoned performers. Their experienced instructors will guide students through the art of improv and comedic storytelling. These classes are designed to enhance communication skills, build confidence and to develop the ability to just live and respond in the present moment.

ABOUT DENISE JONES

Denise Jones is a Leo-nominated film and tv actor and Canadian Comedy Award winning performer. She is the former Artistic Director of the Improv Centre where she co created and directed smash hit shows to sold out crowds. She has performed in thousands of shows all over the globe with Second City Theatricals, the critically acclaimed Comic Strippers, Princess and Crystal Cruiselines and alongside legends like Colin Mochrie and Ryan Stiles. She is also a member of the teaching faculty of Vancouver Film School’s Comedy Project. You’ve seen her on film and tv in projects like Preggoland with James Caan and the BFG, directed by Steven Spielberg.

ABOUT DAVID MILCHARD

David Milchard is an award-winning actor, writer, director, producer, comedian, improviser, and digital creator. A Second City and Vancouver TheatreSports League alumni, he’s performed in comedy festivals across North America including Just For Laughs, Bumbershoot, and the Chicago Improv Festival. A member of the critically acclaimed international hit touring show the Comic Strippers (Canadian Comedy Award Winner) you’ve seen him on Altered Carbon, Psych, Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce, Fringe, The Flash, Supernatural, Robert Redford’s The Company You Keep and Tim Burton’s Big Eyes. David, co-creator of the award-winning viral web series, Convos With My 2-Year-Old on YouTube (125 million plus views). David produced Corner Office (2020 Tribeca Film Festival starring Jon Ham and Danny Pudi and directed the feature film F**king Idiots (2020 VIFF /Montreal Independent Film Festival).

Now offering two time slots (at 7:30PM and 9:30 PM) recurring weekly on Saturdays following. Get ready to bring big laughs to your next corporate special event or into your coming weekend! The Comedy Department

Photos: d. king

Art & Culture

Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”

AKA: DIE ZAUBERFLÖTE

Had the pleasure of attending the season opener of “THE MAGIC FLUTE”at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre Saturday night with my friend Rosa.

Opera is a rare art form that inspires and exhilarates all of the senses, and more often than not; procures life-long aficionados, also referred to as fanatics. Rosa is one of those, whereas I used to be more familiar with Broadway-type shows and musicals.

Kirsten MacKinnon and Owen McCausland – **Emily Cooper Photography**

Opera is trying to make sense of the nonsense. No good opera plot can be sensible because no one sings when they get stabbed or bitten by a dragon. It’s just an imaginative fairy tale set to music with romance (usually a damsel in distress and some bad or misunderstood guy), dancing, tragedy, comedy, special effects and a little supernatural. If they throw a king or queen and a crazy bird man into the mix; all the more magical.

There were bits and pieces of all of that in the Magic Flute. If you’re not already aware; this is considered a timeless classic; one of the greatest operas ever written. It concerns the search for truth and reason (I never did get the reason though), love and enlightenment. It follows the adventures of Prince Tamino and this silly bird-catcher called Papageno on their quest to rescue Pamina – daughter of the Queen of the Night.

Audrey Luna as The Queen of the Night with Kirsten MacKinnon – **Emily Cooper Photography**

Prince Tamino plays the Magic Flute and discovers it has the power to calm the most savage of beasts. Tamino and Pamina finally meet and pledge to endure the trials of initiation into the Temple of Wisdom together; trials that have their basis in the Freemasonry movement of the 18th century, of which Mozart was a member – a sneaky way of putting that in there without even realizing it. I knew there was some trial because they kept referring to it, but didn’t understand why, or where it was going to take place. Anyway, freemasonry is one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the world. More on that later…as I try not to go too off topic.

There’s lots going on in this 3 hour opera, including some monsters and 3 damsels that keep showing up out of nowhere. However, I must give special mention to the costumes and set design which were breathtaking. It is a fantasy after all I keep reminding myself.

And let’s remember that Mozart wrote it over 230 years ago.

“THE MAGIC FLUTE” was the last opera Mozart composed. It premiered on September 30^th, 1791 – roughly three months before he died at the age of 35. Mozart is perhaps the greatest composer in history. In his short creative lifetime he wrote more than 600 works, he redefined the symphony, composed some of the greatest operas ever written and lifted chamber music to new heights of artistic achievement. That’s some resume!

SECRET SOCIETY: Both Mozart and the opera’s librettist, Emanuel Schikaneder, were devoted Freemasons, a fraternity famous for secret rites and rituals, at a time when the Masonic order was frowned upon by the authorities and mistrusted by the public. Its meetings were mysterious to outsiders and the order was believed to be connected to the principles of the Enlightenment, so established political leaders were a little nervous about it. The emperor of Austria even restricted the number of Masonic lodges allowed to operate in the country.

So, while Mozart’s drama fell into the general category of “magic opera” — works based on folk tales, with plenty of stunts, scene changes and spectacular stage effects — it was also a political statement in disguise, filled with veiled Masonic symbolism, including an homage to a Masonic initiation ceremony in Act II balancing four elements (earth, air, water, fire) in perfect harmony of the universe.

“The happy medium – truth in all things – is no longer either known or valued; to gain applause, one must write things so inane that they might be played on barrel-organs, or so unintelligible that no rational being can comprehend them, though on that very account, they are likely to please” – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

You don’t say…

Now until October 29^th. For tickets:

https://www.vancouveropera.ca/whats-on/magic-flute/

Header Photo: The Magic Flute full stage – Emily Cooper Photography

FUN

Thrills, Chills & Cocktails

Always a winning combination don’t you think?

Such was our evening last night at the opening of “THE SHINE.”

Presented by “THE BEAUMONT STUDIOS ARTS SOCIETY“ which aims to advance the public’s knowledge and interest in the Vancouver art scene through participation in events and artistic exhibitions.

“THE SHINE” is described as a Stephen King themed burlesque and cocktail bonanza. I cannot say for sure which part I found most intriguing as it was all so well put together.

It was my first time at the studios so I had nothing to compare it to, and no expectations – which turned out to be a big surprise in a gorey meets glam kind of way. Lots of twists and turns (literally) in a pre-Halloween scary celebration of some of the “King of Horrors” most iconic figures from “THE SHINING,” “CARRIE,” and “MISERY” – three of my personal favourite creepy movies of all time.

The evening started with a lineup outside the studios before being let in. My first thought was this might turn out to be a bit of a let down. But thankfully it turned out to be the opposite.

Once inside, we were greeted by the infamous Annie Wilkes character from “MISERY” (played by Kathy Bates in the movie) handing out two drink tickets while the novelist character of Paul Sheldon (played by James Caan in the movie) is typing away frantically at an old fashioned type writer. Do you remember this line from the movie –“God came to me last night and told me your purpose for being here. I am going to help you write a new book” – because Wilkes didn’t like the ending of his latest book. Still gives me the creeps.

Then we were led into the first themed room (of three) to get our first cocktail served up by a clown who dropped a bit of blood on top for colour. And it went on from there. A little burlesque, another cocktail served up by Lloyd, the iconic bartender from “THE SHINING,” the eerie twins from the Overlook Hotel did a twisty-turned cirque-like performance, Jack Torrence (the Jack Nicholson character) makes a vaudevillian and villainous appearance, and finally; the prom scene from “CARRIE” including that bloody pail.
Don’t want to give too much away because this extravaganza is on until October 27^th. If you reside in or around Vancouver you should really try to get a ticket for something unique, refreshing, campy and utterly spellbinding. The talented group really outdid themselves. Fab, Fun, Entertainment.

A Bit About the Beaumont:

This place exists to inspire and engage artists, designers, and creative small business owners with space, events and opportunities to work together, play together, share, learn, create and produce art and artistic projects and engage with the community around it. It is a place for the public to engage with art, learn from our artist community and appreciate creativity for what it brings to our lives.

The Beaumont was established in 2004 by artist Jude Kusnierz, as an open and supportive environment for a wide variety of creative professionals. Being a full-time professional artist for over a decade, Jude’s goal was to create a unique environment where artists, like herself, could work in a beautiful, safe, reasonably priced, positive and upbeat environment, a place that would offer opportunity for growth, mentoring and cross-pollination of ideas and business.

Photos: d. king

Tickets for upcoming events:

https://thebeaumontstudios.com/

THINKAboutit

Critical Viewing

“Critical Viewing” – the best words I can think of to describe films as more than just entertainment.

It’s very similar to critical thinking which is the ability to effectively analyze information and form a judgment – but on cinema instead of with thoughts.

As much as I love watching movies, I rarely find one that inspires, enlightens or generates insight for me. So for that reason, I’m a tough critic at least for myself. Ironically, uninspiring movies have inspired me to write this post. For example; as I quickly went through a recent film festival guide with speed dating precision, countless films felt unworthy of my attention, sad to say.

So…does that make me a movie snob? Or are there just not that many seemingly great movies out there any more? I’m talking about a majority of just so-so films. Obviously there are some greats past and present – just not an abundance.

I read somewhere that If you can sit through 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, without blinking an eye, that you are either a movie buff or dead.

Then there’s the much more serious Cinephile. I’m certainly more of a movie buff than a “Cinephile.”

The word “Cinephile” sounds pretentious, although it refers to an educated film consumer with the tool kit needed to distinguish average films from outstanding ones. Yes, I get that too; but the difference is I prefer to focus mainly on the story while appreciating costume, set design, etc. The “cinephile” pays attention to the allover art form for the way it is filmed, edited, the camera angles, and the use of colour and sound. While I appreciate all of this too, if the story isn’t something I’m personally interested in I don’t care about the rest. Sometimes the director gets something in his/her head that they want to convey but which just doesn’t come across clearly to the audience. You’re left guessing as to what they were trying to communicate. And there’s nothing entertaining in that.

Anyway, these days I want something to move me, to make me trigger an insight, educate me or cause me to want to better myself or inspire me to create something, cook something or travel somewhere.

Life that imitates Art. Art that imitates Life – can be either good or bad. You know what I mean? There’s a lot of crap out there. Art for art’s sake is not good enough. I’d much rather watch a low budget documentary than a high budget mediocre Hollywood blockbuster.

Maybe my category is just a “lover of movies that move me.”

Trailer Trashing:

Is watching the trailer important? Depends. It can ruin the surprise as sometimes it gives too much away, sometimes it gives it ALL away, and sometimes it makes you turn away.

Some of my favorite past picks for:

Inspiration: Forrest Gump, The Blind Side, Dead Poets Society, Erin Brockovitch, Rocky.

Enlightenment: Good Will Hunting, Life of PI, Shawshank Redemption, Ghost.

Insight (into people or animals – documentaries are best for this): Searching for Sugarman, My Octopus Teacher, Wolf of Wall Street.

Epic: The Godfather I, II, etc., Gone With The Wind.

Escape: ET, Lost in Translation, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Dirty Dancing.

Comedy: Bridesmaids, The Producers, Planes, Trains & Automobiles.

How about you? What’s your preference?

My previous post on Critical Thinking:

Has Critical Thinking Gone Out of Style?