Celebrating local artists and nurturing the spirit of the community!
Palm Desert, CA – Don’t miss McCallum Theatre’s OPEN CALL TALENT PROJECT on Friday, May 2 & Saturday, May 3. Dedicated to presenting local, aspiring artists of all ages, this visually stunning and energy filled talent competition with a moving full cast finale is an audience favorite.
Palm Desert, CA – Don’t miss McCallum Theatre’s OPEN CALL TALENT PROJECT on Friday, May 2 & Saturday, May 3. Dedicated to presenting local, aspiring artists of all ages, this visually stunning and energy filled talent competition with a moving full cast finale is an audience favorite.
This year, Open Call will feature 90 community members ages 9-79 – vocalists, dancers, and instrumentalists – who are bringing their talent, heart and soul to the McCallum stage. The 2025 finalists are Aztec Arts Dance Company, Richard Caldera & Josh Witte, Coachella Valley High School Dance Team, Kimberly Cofer & Jerry Martin, Swara D'Souza, Ray Gonzales, Grupo Folklórico Tonantzin, Daniela Hastings, Charlie Humphrey, Shane Lavender, Jon E. Marianowits, Palm Swings, Sierra Petrilla, RazzmaTapz, Elizabeth Archuleta Rivera, Aaron Rubio, Roger Snofsky, Summer Breeze, Shanti Wilder, and Paige Williams.
"Open Call is an exciting platform where local aspiring artists come together to collaborate, learn, and perform, showcasing their incredible talents to the community. We are immensely grateful to our generous sponsors who make Open Call a reality. Our mission is to produce a captivating show that celebrates the performing arts, spotlights local talent, and fosters a stronger sense of community,” says Kajsa Thuresson-Frary, McCallum’s Vice President - Education.
Audience members have the opportunity to vote for their favorite act at all three performances and the winners will be announced at the conclusion of the Saturday evening performance. All Open Call finalists receive a cash stipend, and cash prizes are awarded for Grand Prize ($5000), 2nd Place ($2500), Audience Favorite ($2500), and Talent Achievement ($750).
There are three performances this year – Friday, May 2 at 7pm, and Saturday, May 3 at 2pm and 7pm. Friday at 7pm and Saturday at 2pm tickets are $20/30/40. Tickets for Saturday at 7pm, which includes the award ceremony, are $25/40/55.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. To become a sponsor contact Thomas M. Head, Associate Vice President - Development at (760) 776-6164. Sponsor benefits include Open Call tickets, public recognition and a post-show reception with finalists. Donations help support Open Call and McCallum’s arts education and community programs.
Tickets are available online at McCallumTheatre.org or by calling or visiting the McCallum Theatre Box Office at (760) 340-2787. The Box Office is open Monday - Friday 12pm - 5pm.
Open Call Talent Project Testimonials
A “one of a kind” production that will make you want to return again and again. The diverse talent is amazing and the finale is astonishing. The sense of community emanating from the performers is palpable and must indeed be a life altering experience for them. Brava/bravo!!!
Linda and Steve Cadenelli, Open Call Audience Member
This project was one of the most professionally produced of the entire season. The performers, production and overall experience was heartwarming and left me with a tear in my eye as I left the theatre. So much effort resulted in so much joy. It truly leaves you with a sense of community.
Richard Herwig, Open Call Audience Member
Experiencing Open Call was amazing. I was so happy to see such creativity, passion, and talent. It showcased great diversity of skill and huge potential within our community. Open Call did not only entertain but also inspired. It's a celebration of artistry, resilience, and the human spirit which makes it an amazing project that strengthens our community.
Richard Caldera, Open Call Grand Prize & Audience Favorite Award Winner 2024
One of the best events that we have ever attended at McCallum Theatre.
Paul Howard, Audience Member
