Desert Ensemble Theatre (DET) began at the Annenberg Theater in Palm Springs, producing hits like Every Christmas Story Told (And Then Some!), God of Carnage, and When You Believe: A Conversation with and Tribute to Stephen Schwartz, featuring Broadway stars. In 2013, DET moved to the Pearl McManus Theatre at the historic Palm Springs Woman's Club, establishing a regular season of two to three productions. Acclaimed performances included Laundry and Bourbon, Sylvia, Bad Jews, Miss Gulch Returns!, A Number, Election Day, and Proof. In 2021, DET moved to the Palm Springs Cultural Center where it now produces innovative works that speak to the complexity of human interaction, including most recently Tru, Lifespan of a Fact, Collective Rage: A Play in 5 Betties, and more. Since 2012, DET has awarded scholarships to over 38 high school students for a total of $30,000 in scholarship money.

DET was named "Best Repertory Company" (Desert Sun, 2018) and "Best Live Theatre, Palm Springs" (Palm Springs Life, 2018), earning 12 Broadway World Awards and over 35 Desert Theatre League Awards.