Reviving an icon: The restoration of Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city steeped in history and charm, renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and mid-century modern architecture. Amid these treasures lies the Plaza Theatre, an enduring symbol of our community’s artistic heritage. As the restoration of this historic gem progresses, it is an opportune moment to reflect on its significance and the promising future that awaits.

For decades, the Plaza Theatre has been more than just a building; it has been a cultural cornerstone. Since its opening in 1936, the theater has hosted countless performances, from Hollywood premieres to community plays, and has even been the home of the beloved Palm Springs Follies. Its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, complete with an iconic marquee, has long been a recognizable landmark in our city’s downtown.

However, as with many historic structures, time has not been kind to the Plaza Theatre. Years of wear and tear, coupled with outdated facilities, have taken their toll. Recognizing the urgent need to preserve this vital piece of our cultural fabric, a dedicated effort to restore the Plaza Theatre was launched, garnering support from city officials, local businesses and passionate community members.

The restoration project, led by the nonprofit organization the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation, has made significant strides since its inception. The primary objective is not only to repair the theater but to restore it to its former glory while updating it to meet modern standards. This includes structural repairs, enhancing accessibility, updating electrical and plumbing systems and installing state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. The aim is to create a space that honors the theater’s rich history while making it viable for contemporary and future use.

We have completed several crucial restoration tasks. The entire floor was ripped up to allow for the installation of a new, more energy efficient HVAC system, ensuring a comfortable environment for all future performances. Additionally, asbestos abatement was successfully carried out, prioritizing the safety and well-being of our community and visitors.

We have also rediscovered hidden treasures dating back to the 1930s. One of the most exciting discoveries is the original decorative stencil work adorning the proscenium, which had been concealed for more than three decades.

The restoration process, while intricate and time-consuming, has been marked by meticulous attention to detail. Preservation experts have ensured that every element, from the ornate plasterwork to the star-field ceiling, is handled with care. The goal is to maintain the theater’s historic integrity while introducing necessary modernizations discreetly.

As the project proceeds, there is palpable excitement in the air. The Plaza Theatre is set to reopen its doors in the fall of 2025, promising a renewed venue for the performing arts in Palm Springs. The theater’s revival is expected to spur economic growth in the downtown area, attracting tourists and locals alike to enjoy a variety of performances, from plays and concerts to film screenings and special events while giving a boost to nearby businesses.

The restoration of the Plaza Theatre is more than just a renovation project; it is a testament to our community’s dedication to preserving its heritage. It reflects our collective recognition of the arts as a vital component of our identity and our commitment to passing this legacy on to future generations.

While we have raised a significant amount to begin the restoration, we still need to raise approximately $10 million more to complete the project. Your donations will directly contribute to essential structural repairs, modernizing facilities and preserving the theater’s historic charm. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to reopening the doors of the Plaza Theatre and uplifting our downtown area.

Join us in this exciting journey to restore a treasured piece of our city's heritage. Together, we can ensure that the Plaza Theatre remains a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment for Palm Springs. Please donate today and be part of preserving our shared history. Visit savetheplazatheatreps.org for updates and more information.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

J.R. Roberts is president of the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation. He can be reached at JR66@Mac.com .

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Reviving an icon: The restoration of Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs