Plaza Theatre | El Paso

Plaza Theatre: A Historic Landmark in El Paso

The Plaza Theatre is one of El Paso's most iconic and historically significant landmarks. Located in the heart of downtown El Paso, Texas, this architectural gem has played a crucial role in the city's cultural and entertainment history. The Plaza Theatre’s combination of historical charm, architectural beauty, and its diverse role in the arts makes it a true testament to the city's vibrant past and present.

1. Historical Background

The Plaza Theatre was designed by architect W. Scott Dunne and opened its doors on September 12, 1930. The building was constructed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, a popular architectural design for theatres during the early 20th century. The Plaza Theatre was one of the largest movie palaces in the region, capable of seating 2,410 patrons. Its grand opening featured the movie Follow Thru, marking the start of a legacy of providing entertainment to the people of El Paso.

In its early years, the Plaza Theatre was not just a movie house; it was a hub for vaudeville acts, stage plays, and other live performances. The building was known for its lavish design, which created the illusion of an outdoor Spanish courtyard. Inside, the theatre featured painted ceilings, mosaic-tiled floors, and ornate metal railings, all contributing to its atmospheric charm.

2. Architectural Significance

The Plaza Theatre is renowned for its atmospheric design, which was intended to transport audiences into an open-air Spanish courtyard setting. The design elements include:

Intricate painted ceilings that mimic the sky, complete with clouds, stars, and the moon.

Mosaic-tiled floors that evoke the feeling of being outdoors in a warm, Mediterranean-style plaza.

Decorative iron railings and antique furniture that add to the historic ambiance of the space.

One of the most unique features of the Plaza Theatre is its Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, which was custom-built for the theatre. This organ, one of only six ever made, features 1,071 pipes and is capable of simulating 15 different instruments, adding an extra layer of magic to the theatre's atmosphere.

In 1987, the Plaza Theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical importance. It was also designated a Texas State Antiquities Landmark, highlighting its role as an irreplaceable piece of the state's cultural heritage.

3. Theatre's Role in Entertainment History

The Plaza Theatre has long been a major player in the entertainment scene in El Paso. In the early 20th century, it was one of the city’s main venues for film screenings and live performances. However, the rise of television and drive-in theatres in the 1950s caused a decline in the theatre’s popularity, leading to its eventual closure in 1974.

Despite these challenges, the Plaza Theatre’s legacy remained important to the community, and in 1989, the theatre was almost demolished. Fortunately, a fundraising campaign led by the El Paso Community Foundation helped raise enough funds to save the building. In 1990, the foundation acquired the theatre, and a $24.2 million restoration project began. The restoration was completed in 2006, bringing the Plaza Theatre back to its former glory.

4. Current Use and Facilities

Today, the Plaza Theatre continues to serve as one of El Paso’s premier venues for entertainment. It hosts a variety of events, including:

Broadway performances,

Concerts,

Comedy shows,

Film festivals,

Dance performances, and more.

The Plaza Theatre houses two performance spaces:

Kendall Kidd Performance Hall: A large auditorium with seating for 2,050 people, used for major performances, including Broadway shows and concerts.

Philanthropy Theatre: A smaller, 200-seat venue designed for more intimate performances such as lectures, chamber music concerts, and smaller plays.

Additionally, the theatre features the Alcantar Sky Garden, a rooftop venue that is available for private events like receptions, weddings, and corporate gatherings, offering a stunning view of downtown El Paso.

The Plaza Theatre is also home to the El Paso Symphony Orchestra and serves as a key venue for the annual Plaza Classic Film Festival, which celebrates classic cinema with screenings of iconic films from the 1920s to the 1960s.

5. Community Engagement

The Plaza Theatre remains a vital cultural center in El Paso, with a strong commitment to public engagement and education. It offers public tours every Tuesday at noon, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the theatre's historical significance and architectural beauty. These tours are especially popular with locals and tourists alike who want to learn more about the Plaza Theatre’s storied past.

The theatre also hosts various community events, including film screenings, local performances, and cultural celebrations, contributing to El Paso’s rich cultural fabric.

6. Visitor Information

Address: 125 W Mills Ave, El Paso, TX 79901

Phone: (915) 534-0600

The Plaza Theatre is located in the heart of downtown El Paso, making it easily accessible to visitors who can also enjoy nearby shops, restaurants, and other downtown attractions.

7. Conclusion

The Plaza Theatre is not just an entertainment venue; it is a living piece of El Paso’s history. From its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture to its role in providing entertainment, the Plaza Theatre stands as a reminder of the city's past while continuing to shape its cultural future. Whether you're a visitor coming to enjoy a Broadway show or a local attending a community event, the Plaza Theatre offers an unforgettable experience in a setting steeped in history.