The historic Plaza Theatre is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in downtown Palm Springs. Since 1936, it hosted a wide range of entertainment to the nation and beyond, but over the decades, the building has deteriorated. Recently the City of Palm Springs has initiated a capital campaign to restore the beloved structure to its former glory. This is your chance to participate in this historic restoration project by becoming a Founder or contributing at other levels to the project. When this restoration is complete, the historic Plaza Theatre will be poised to once again provide the city and its visitors with top notch entertainment in an iconic and fully-restored historic venue.
Originally built in 1936, the structure was used for film premieres and screenings and was the venue for nationally broadcast radio theatre programs and other performances by Bing Crosby, Amos ‘n’ Andy, Jack Benny, Bob Hope, and Frank Sinatra, among many others. It was the birthplace of the Palm Springs International Film Festival and in its later years, the theatre was home to the critically acclaimed and revered “The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies.”
The City of Palm Springs has initiated a capital campaign to restore the beloved structure to its former glory. The Plaza Theatre was declared a Class 1 Historic Site in 1991. This designation prohibits any outward structural changes that do not adhere to the original Depression-era design. The Plaza Theatre is in dire need of repair and restoration. The City of Palm Springs is committed to bringing the theatre back to its original luster after more than 80 years of community and theatrical impact.
The City recently engaged the international architectural firm Gensler and historic preservation consultants Chattel to develop a comprehensive restoration and rehabilitation plan. This plan calls for installing 670 new seats, significant infrastructure repairs, installation of new theatrical equipment, and structural restoration improvements to ensure the building meets current fire prevention and American Disabilities Act mandates. This plan is estimated to cost approximately $10 – $12 million conservatively.
This is your chance to participate in this historic fundraising campaign to save this iconic building! Many naming opportunities have been identified, and interested parties are encouraged to participate by becoming Founders or contributing at other levels to the project. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information or to make a donation to restore this historic building, CLICK HERE TO DONATE!