Reporting by Brian Blueskye, Palm Springs Desert Sun
This weekend’s entertainment during Palm Springs Pride includes some of the biggest names in comedy who are renowned for everyday humor, cultural commentary, and bringing the same humor and energy from the stage onto the screen.
Also, a Broadway performer and actor will share songs and personal stories from his career. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a night of laughter and enjoyment.
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Chris Tucker at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa
Comedy: Chris Tucker is renowned for his roles as Smokey in “Friday” and Detective James Carter in the “Rush Hour” franchise. Before he appeared on screen, the comedian became a fan favorite on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam after his first appearance in 1992 and went on to become a frequent performer on the show.
In 2015, Netflix released his comedy special “Chris Tucker Live,” which was filmed at the Historic Fox Theatre in his hometown of Atlanta. A fourth “Rush Hour” film is in production, and Tucker is expected to return to co-star with Jackie Chan.
Tucker will perform on Saturday at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa.
If you go: 8 p.m. Saturday, Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. Tickets $64 to $159. aguacalientecasinos.com
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Felipe Esparza at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Comedy: As a comedian, Felipe Esparza has a gift for connecting with diverse audiences. His stand-up features relatable humor and real-life experiences, and now he has fresh material for his “Laughter Will Save Us” tour when he performs on Saturday at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
Esparza is also the host of the comedy podcast “What’s Up Fool?” which features stories and interviews with guests.
If you go: 8 p.m. Saturday, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio. Tickets $52.50 to $102.50. fantasyspringsresort.com
Margaret Cho at The Plaza Theatre Palm Springs
Comedy: Margaret Cho’s list of adjectives includes comedian, actor, musician, advocate and entrepreneur. She became a prominent voice during the ‘90s on subjects that were considered taboo, such as her Asian American identity, sexuality, body image, and more.
Cho, who will perform two shows on Saturday at The Plaza Theatre, recently appeared on the TV shows “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” and “Will Trent.” The 7 p.m. performance is sold out, but tickets remain for the 9:30 p.m. show.
If you go: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, The Plaza Theatre, 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. Tickets start at $60.25. palmspringsplazatheatre.com
Cheyenne Jackson at the McCallum Theatre
Pop: Cheyenne Jackson’s one-man show featuring stories and songs on Sunday at the McCallum Theatre is called “That Guy from That Thing,” but you shouldn’t have to guess where you’ve seen the Grammy and Emmy-nominated actor and Broadway performer. Jackson has starred in the Broadway productions of “All Shook Up,” “Xanadu,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” and more.
He also appeared in the films “United 93,” “Behind the Candelabra,” “Love Is Strange,” and “Werewolves Within.” He’s also known for his role as Danny Baker on the TV series “30 Rock.”
If you go: 6 p.m. Sunday, McCallum Theatre, 73-000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. Tickets $50 to $120. mccallumtheatre.org
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun.
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