Bent Theater Holds First Fundraiser Gala
The Palm Springs theater company's inaugural Building a Legacy event opened its fifth season and exceeded its financial goal.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy
The Bent held its first-ever fundraiser, Building a Legacy, An Evening of Celebration, at Gertie's Salon & Bar at Living Out. A silent and live auction helped the event exceed its financial goal.
Why it matters
The fundraiser helps sustain a Palm Springs-area theater serving the Coachella Valley's LGBTQ+ audiences as it begins its fifth season. The event also marks the theater's first major donor-focused celebration since opening.
The Bent opened five years ago with $4.95 in its bank account and has since presented 28 productions. The total dollar amount raised by the silent and live auction was not disclosed.
The players
The Bent
A Palm Springs-area theater company that presents productions serving the Coachella Valley's LGBTQ+ community.
Michael Carroll Green
Executive director of the Palm Springs Cultural Center and inaugural recipient of The Bent's Building a Legacy award.
Patrick Evans
KESQ Chief Meteorologist who co-emceed the fundraiser alongside drag performer Billy L'Amour.
The details
Guests at Gertie's Salon & Bar were served passed hors d'oeuvres and a signature cocktail while bidding in the silent and live auction. Palm Springs television meteorologist Patrick Evans and drag performer Billy L'Amour emceed, and the pair performed a duet of 'Something Stupid.'
Timeline
Five years ago: The Bent opened with $4.95 in its bank account.
Recently: The Bent held its inaugural Building a Legacy fundraiser.
November 13 to 29: The Bent's next production, 'Dada Woof, Papa Hot,' runs.
Legacy Building
The Bent's first fundraiser follows a model of local arts organizations seeking donor support through honoring community leaders such as the Palm Springs Cultural Center's Michael Carroll Green. The event signals the theater's transition from start-up to an institution with its own donor and legacy base.
Readers interested in supporting local theater can attend the next production, 'Dada Woof, Papa Hot,' running November 13 to 29. Tickets are available through The Bent's ticket page.
The takeaway
Local arts organizations often build donor support by honoring community figures and hosting celebratory events. Residents who want to support theater can attend productions or contribute during seasonal fundraising.
What happens next
The Bent's next production, 'Dada Woof, Papa Hot,' runs from November 13 to 29.
Further reading
Explore more Philanthropy coverage from the Palm Springs area to see how local arts groups raise funds.
More information
Purchase tickets for The Bent's upcoming production on the theater's official site.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Desert Sun.
