Desert Entertainment with Tod
Award-Winning Drama 'Fear' to Benefit Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival
A unique theatrical experience is coming to the desert as "Fear," a psychological drama by Matt Williams, takes the stage for a three-night benefit engagement. The production, which won five Desert Theatre League Awards for its initial staged reading, will run May 14, 15, and 16 at a warehouse in the Cathedral City Business Park.
Starring David Youse and Chuck Yates, the play marks a departure from Matt Williams' typical work as the creator of "Roseanne" and "Home Improvement." Set in an abandoned shed, the production utilizes a site-specific warehouse space to create an intimate, immersive environment for only 50 guests per night. Each evening begins with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m.
Proceeds from the production benefit the Palm Springs Young Playwrights Festival (PSYPF), now in its ninth year. Founded by Youse, the festival encourages students from elementary through high school across Riverside County to submit original works. Winners receive mentorship from professional playwrights and directors, as well as a $500 scholarship.
"It is life-changing for them," said Youse. "It's not just about becoming a writer. We want to show them the vast opportunities in the entertainment business, from lighting design to wardrobe and beyond."
The festival will culminate in a public staged reading of the winning students' plays on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Tickets and more information about both "Fear" and the festival can be found at psypf.org.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 29, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings