Free Community Presentation: Hollywood Meets the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre: A Multimedia Journey

Historian Jim Cook will offer an extraordinary presentation about the historic Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs that will transport attendees back to the golden age of Hollywood and reveal the remarkable story of how the Theatre shaped this iconic desert getaway. Jim will highlight the fascinating connections between the legendary locales of Hollywood and Palm Springs and the crucial role the Plaza Theatre played in the early evolution of the city. Attendees will also learn about the current restoration of this iconic building and its promising future. As a special treat, renowned photographer Michael Childers will be honored for his recent gift to the Plaza Theatre’s future museum. Childers, in conjunction with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, donated some exquisite black and white promotional images of Greta Garbo, co-star Robert Taylor, and director George Cukor from the film Camille which had its world premiere at the Plaza Theatre in 1936. Six of the photos will be displayed in the room.

BACKGROUND:

Originally built in 1936, the Plaza Theatre was initially used for film premieres and screenings, nationally broadcast radio theatre programs, and other performances. In its later years, the theater was home to the long running “The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies.” Over the decades, the building deteriorated, so the City of Palm Springs initiated a capital campaign to restore the beloved structure to its former glory.

Currently underway, the comprehensive restoration and rehabilitation plan 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 in December 2025, the Plaza Theatre will be poised to continue to provide the city and its visitors with top-notch entertainment for years to come.