Local & Community
Plaza Theatre Gala Shines as Iconic Palm Springs Venue Reopens
The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre marked a major milestone tonight as guests gathered for a glamorous gala celebration commemorating the historic venue’s grand reopening. Adding star power to the red carpet festivities was award-winning actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, who headlined a special performance as part of the celebration.
NBC Palm Springs reporter Caitlyn Kelley was live on the red carpet outside the newly refurbished theater, located in the Prescott Courtyard in downtown Palm Springs. She spoke with JR Roberts, president of the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation, who reflected on the immense effort behind the restoration.
“You know, tonight is magic. It’s finally happening,” Roberts said. “We’re calling it the Plaza Theatre 2.0. The Plaza Theatre relives tonight.”
Roberts emphasized that the restoration was not simply a remodel but a complete “nuts-and-bolts” revival of the historic 1936 building. “When people walk into the theater, it will be 1936 for them,” he explained. “Inside the walls it’ll be 2026, but the experience is going to be a powerful one.”
The community-driven effort took nearly two years, aiming to bring the theater back to its original grandeur while preserving its historic charm. With its doors now open once again, excitement was palpable as guests lined the red carpet for an evening reminiscent of a classic Hollywood premiere.
As Kelley noted, the theatre’s transformation is visually stunning both inside and out, and tonight marks a major cultural moment for downtown Palm Springs.
The celebration continues throughout the evening, with attendees ready to enjoy a “wicked good time” honoring the past, present, and future of one of the city’s most iconic venues.
By: NBC Palm Springs
December 1, 2025
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