Celebrate the Restoration of the Iconic Plaza Theatre

The iconic Plaza Theatre (1936) played a significant role in the history of Palm Springs. Seminal Palm Springs architect Harry Williams (father to E. Stewart Williams) designed the theatre in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The graceful building was used for film screenings, nationally broadcast radio theatre programs, and other memorable performances by entertainment giants Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Jack Benny, and Bob Hope. Live radio shows were broadcast from the theatre, bringing national attention to Palm Springs. It also was one of the most popular movie theatres in the growing Palm Springs community and was the venue for several motion picture world premieres, including "Camille," "My Fair Lady," and “Music Man.” In its later years, the theatre was home to the long running revue "The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies.”

Over the decades, the building has deteriorated, so the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation has raised funds to restore the beloved structure to its former glory. Construction is underway, but in this exclusive “hardhat” tour, participants will be able to tour the historic building while it undergoes its restoration and observe first-hand the exciting plans for how the theatre will be transformed.

The theatre’s restoration and rehabilitation will provide essential infrastructure repairs, installation of new theatrical equipment, and structural improvements to ensure that the building meets today’s fire prevention and American Disabilities Act mandates. When the restoration is complete, the Plaza Theatre will be poised to continue to provide the city and its visitors with top-notch entertainment for years to come.