SAVE THE PLAZA THEATRE
Make History!
JOIN US TO SAVE THE PLAZA THEATRE
The Plaza Theatre has an impressive role in the history of Palm Springs. The theatre’s iconic identity was established on its opening to the public in 1936 with the world premiere of the Oscar-winning George Cukor film, Camille, with its legendary star, Greta Garbo, who allegedly slipped into the back of the theatre after the lights went down. In addition to being a movie theatre, it was also the venue for nationally-broadcast radio theatre programs by such luminaries as Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Jack Benny, and Amos ‘n’ Andy.
Over the decades, the building has deteriorated, and the Plaza Theatre Foundation has been established to raise $16.5M in order to support the City of Palm Springs’ effort to fully restore the historic theatre.
Creating a one-of-a-kind community facility
Our goal is to prepare this one-of-a-kind community facility for its “Next Act” by replacing or restoring most systems, installing new seats, sound, and lighting, adapting the structure to meet current ADA requirements, and providing the theatre with modern facilities needed to provide Palm Springs and the Valley with a venue accessible and affordable for everyone. Exciting new developments include:
- Our fundraising success has been humbling and overwhelming. In the past 18 months the Foundation has raised $14.5M toward our goal of $16.5M from an incredible group of donors.
- We are now in the final phase of our major donor fundraising and we need to raise the remaining $2 million by the end of summer 2023 which coincides with our anticipated construction start date.
When restored, the Plaza Theatre will be the only place available for the entire community to come together and utilize it as an affordable community venue showcasing diverse programming for all people, local youth organizations, promoting multicultural programming in film, music, live theater, education, comedy, and entertainment for all. It will also support and serve nonprofit organizations like the Palm Springs International Film Festival, ONE-PS, the Jessie O. James Desert Highland Unity Center, LGBTQ+ organizations, Arts groups, modernism-related events, our senior population, and many others.
We need your help
Please join us as we embark on this exciting future for the Plaza Theatre. The rebirth of this cultural icon cannot happen without your support!
For more information contact President and former Palm Springs City Council Member J.R. Roberts at info@psplazatheatre.org or 760-218-6330.
IN OUR SUPPORTERS’ OWN WORDS
“I strongly believe in the preservation of historic American theatres. I’ve been impressed with the planning that has already gone into the admirable restoration project for the Plaza Theatre and saw an opportunity for me to assist in this impressive campaign. I hope that my donation will spark interest in others who feel as strongly as I do about preserving our city’s past and creating a quality entertainment space for future generations.”
– David C. Lee
“The City of Palm Springs needs to restore one of its most iconic buildings – the Plaza Theatre. It’s been the heartbeat of Downtown Palm Springs. This historic building has played an impressive role in the history of Palm Springs and has showcased performers like Jack Benny, Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, and so many more. The Plaza, which first opened in 1936, is in danger and vitally needs your financial support. Join me in this exciting campaign to bring the Plaza back! The restoration cannot happen without you. The arts make life better!”
– Lily Tomlin