New Book Celebrates the Plaza Theatre's Glamorous History and Comeback

Palm Springs' beloved Plaza Theatre got its moment in the spotlight this weekend as authors Jim Cook and Catherine Graham celebrated the launch of their new book, Desert Dream to Silver Screen: The Story of the Historic Palm Springs Plaza Theater.

Destination PSP partnered with Palm Springs Life to host the special evening at their Palm Canyon Dr location. Guests enjoyed drinks and hors d'oeuvres courtesy of Scott Palermo and James Sanak of Harcourts Desert Homes while hearing the authors share stories behind the book.

The beautifully crafted volume takes readers on a journey through the theatre's star-studded premieres, golden radio days, and the inspiring restoration bringing this downtown gem back to life—complete with historic photos spanning the entire transformation.

"It's fantastic to be able to memorialize this incredible feat of bringing this theater back from its bones," said Cook, a Plaza Theater historian. "It's gone through a lot. And once again, it's the center of an entertainment complex for downtown Palm Springs."

Proceeds from the book support the continued mission to complete the Plaza Theatre's restoration.