Local Celebrity Spotlight: Siobhan McAllister Velarde Is Palm Springs' Favorite Scene Stealer

Photo credit James Mortensen

If you've ever found yourself singing along, laughing until your mascara ran, or wondering how one woman can effortlessly jump from blues to Broadway to country in the same set, chances are you've seen Siobhan McAllister Velarde in action.

For nearly 25 years, she's been one of Palm Springs' most beloved performers, bringing heart, humor, and a whole lot of personality to every stage she steps on. We caught up with the local favorite to talk about her journey, her favorite Palm Springs spots, and why making people laugh is just as important as hitting the perfect note.

SQUAD: For those who haven't had the pleasure of seeing you perform, tell us a little about yourself.

Siobhan: My name is Siobhan (pronounced Sha-von) McAllister Velarde, and I've been performing in Palm Springs for almost 25 years. I honestly can't believe how quickly the time has flown by. I've been incredibly fortunate to make a career doing what I love.

SQUAD: Were you one of those kids who sang into a hairbrush in your bedroom?

Siobhan: Absolutely! I even wrapped aluminum foil around my hairbrush to make it look like a microphone. But I didn't just want to perform—I wanted to direct the whole show. I was writing skits, casting my cousins, and making my brother the comic relief before I was even in kindergarten. Looking back, I think that's where my love of storytelling began.

SQUAD: Did you always know singing would become your career?

Siobhan: Not at all! I actually dreamed of becoming a film director and was accepted to USC Film School. Life had other plans, though. After becoming a young mom, I eventually took acting classes, joined a choir because they were performing at Carnegie Hall, and somehow fell backward into singing professionally. Even today, I still think of myself as an actor and entertainer who just happens to sing.

SQUAD: How did Palm Springs discover you?

Siobhan: Through an open mic at Toucans! I sang three songs and was asked to come to the sound booth afterward. I thought I was in trouble! Instead, I met the legendary Tommi Rose, who offered me a weekly show on the spot. One gig turned into another, and before I knew it, Palm Springs had become home.

SQUAD: Where can our readers catch you performing these days?

Siobhan: Friday nights at the Valerie Lounge inside the Velvet Rope Hotel are my home base. I also perform Country & Lace every other Tuesday with Brian Scott, pop in at PS Underground throughout the year, and perform with both The Gand Band and Faultline, along with private events. I love that every audience is different it keeps me on my toes.

SQUAD: Your shows always have so much personality. How would you describe your style?

Siobhan: Eclectic! I sing everything from show tunes and jazz standards to soul, blues, rock, country, and funk. Some people call me eclectic, others call me schizophrenic I happily accept both. If a song moves me, I'll sing it. If I can make people laugh along the way, even better.

SQUAD: What keeps you inspired after all these years?

Siobhan: Connection. Whether it's through music or social media, I love sharing my story. If talking about my health struggles, fashion, my dog, or everyday life helps even one person feel less alone or inspires them to get out of bed that day, then I've done something worthwhile. That's what feeds my soul.

SQUAD: We have to know—where are your favorite Palm Springs spots?

Siobhan: Café Mon Amore is my favorite coffee shop. The Valerie Lounge at the Velvet Rope Hotel is absolutely magical with its gorgeous Art Deco vibe. For cocktails, I love Paul Bar and their frozen Sidecar. If you're hungry, Lost Property has my favorite smashburger in town, and Eight4Nine's fried chicken sandwich is legendary. And if you're looking for an unforgettable night out, PS Underground is always an adventure.

SQUAD: Finally, what's one thing you hope people remember after seeing one of your shows?

Siobhan: I hope they leave smiling. Music is wonderful, but laughter and connection are everything. If someone walks away feeling happier than when they arrived, then that's the best performance I could ever give.

Whether she's bringing down the house with a blues ballad, making the audience howl with laughter, or introducing you to your next favorite Palm Springs hangout, Siobhan McAllister Velarde proves that the best entertainers don't just perform—they make everyone feel like they're part of the show.

To learn more about Siobhan Velarde follow her on Instagram @queensoupy1

About the Author

Ersilia Pompilio is the Editor in Chief of SQUAD Magazine, a Palm Springs guide for bachelorettes and ladies who love to leisure. Ersilia has over two decades of experience in performing, producing live storytelling shows, and hosting a podcast, she has also taught storytelling classes and written professionally for several media outlets. Originally from Los Angeles, Ersilia is also a twenty-year resident of Palm Springs, California.