KESQ’s Patrick Evans to Emcee Ceremony
Television, stage, and film star Judith Chapman will serve as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s 2023 celebrity tree lighter at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 3. KESQ Meteorologist and “Eye on the Desert” Host Patrick Evans will emcee this year’s event at the Tramway’s Mountain Station. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Palm Springs High School Choir performing holiday favorites. Immediately following, Chapman lights the Tram’s landmark 45-foot tree comprised of over 4,000 LED lights, which can be seen throughout the Coachella Valley.
Chapman is best known for her roles in several daytime dramas, including “The Young and the Restless,” “Days of our Lives,” “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “As the World Turns,” and “General Hospital.” She also guest starred on dozens of television series including “The Fall Guy,” “Magnum P.I.,” “Murder She Wrote.” and “Silk Stalkings.” Her feature film work includes “28 Days,” “The Sweetest Thing” and, most recently, playing Nancy Reagan in the Oscar-winning film, “King Richard”. Among her many stage appearances, she portrayed Oscar-winning film star Vivien Leigh in the Los Angeles premiere of the critically acclaimed, one-woman play, “VIVIEN,” for which she garnered rave reviews and toured nationally.
In 2007, she was recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences with a Silver Circle Award, which honors members of the television community who have contributed 25 years to the industry.
“In these trying times, what a holiday blessing it will be for us all to come together in peace and harmony to share the shining light on our beautiful mountain. Peace on Earth and goodwill to all,” says Chapman.
The tree lighting ceremony is open to the public and is included with regular Tram admission.