The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation has announced a landmark partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), heralding a new chapter in the legacy of the historic Plaza Theatre. Under the agreement, OVG will assume day-to-day management of the beloved venue, spearheading programming initiatives and fostering new sponsorship opportunities. Construction on the theatre is slated to commence in March 2024, with completion expected by Fall 2025.
Scott Stiles, Palm Springs City Manager, lauded the partnership as a transformative development for the city’s cultural landscape. “The restoration of the historic Plaza Theatre is a major milestone in the Downtown Revitalization Plan,” remarked Stiles. “We extend our gratitude to Oak View Group for their investment in this iconic theatre, poised to become an arts and culture mecca for generations to come.”
John Bolton, Senior Vice President of Oak View Group, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing OVG’s commitment to leveraging their expertise to elevate the Plaza Theatre’s prominence within the community. “We look forward to bringing the full breadth and scope of OVG to the table,” stated Bolton, “making this City of Palm Springs asset shine as a cultural beacon in downtown Palm Springs.”
Central to the agreement is OVG’s dedication to providing management services without fees, a testament to their ongoing support for the Plaza Theatre’s success. Kevin J. Corcoran, Vice President of the Plaza Theatre Foundation, underscored OVG’s generosity and expertise, affirming their pivotal role in the theatre’s restoration efforts.
The partnership also grants the City of Palm Springs 21 days annually for public programming, further solidifying the Plaza Theatre’s status as a hub for community engagement and civic events.
As the Plaza Theatre undergoes restoration, OVG will collaborate with the Foundation to ensure a seamless transition, from design recommendations to staff training. Post-restoration, OVG will oversee all aspects of theatre operations, including event booking, promotion, and securing corporate sponsorships.
The Plaza Theatre Foundation continues its fundraising efforts to fully restore the iconic venue, with approximately $16 million raised to date. Naming opportunities remain available, offering donors a chance to leave a lasting legacy in Palm Springs.
Upon completion, the Plaza Theatre aims to serve as a vibrant community space, showcasing diverse programming and supporting local organizations such as the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Modernism Week.
Oak View Group (OVG), a global sports and entertainment company, boasts a portfolio of major arenas worldwide, reflecting their commitment to innovation and excellence in venue management.
With Oak View Group at the helm, the Plaza Theatre is poised to reclaim its status as a cultural cornerstone in Palm Springs, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike for years to come.
