Hollywood Meets the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre: A Multimedia Journey

Lucie Arnaz will introduce Plaza Theatre historian Jim Cook for an extraordinary event that transports participants to the golden age of Hollywood and Palm Springs, revealing the remarkable story of how the Plaza Theatre shaped this iconic desert getaway. Discover the fascinating connections between these two legendary locales and the crucial role the Plaza Theatre played in the early evolution of Palm Springs, as well as its promising future.

Featuring showbiz expert and historian Jim Cook alongside Plaza Theatre Foundation President J.R. Roberts, this event will take the audience on an engaging journey through the rich history of the Plaza Theatre, illustrating how Palm Springs earned its reputation as the ultimate "Playground of the Stars."

Palm Springs' own Emmy award winning Entertainer and producer, Lucie Arnaz, (daughter of actors Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz), will introduce the event and share with the audience rarely seen home movie footage of their family home (designed by Midcentury Modern architect Paul R. Wiliams) being constructed in the Thunderbird neighborhood of Rancho Mirage in 1954 and other priceless homes movie footage of her family's life in the early days of Palm Springs. Lucie will also participate in the Q&A discussion following the presentation.

Also included is a hardcover copy of: Desert Dream to Silver Screen: The Story of the Historic Palm Springs Plaza Theatre By Catherine Graham and Jim Cook

This richly illustrated book chronicles star-studded film premieres, beloved radio days, 23 seasons of The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies, and the inspiring restoration that preserves a cornerstone of Palm Springs’ cultural history.

Event Highlights:

–Rare personal film footage of the Ball-Arnaz estate being constructed, and Lucy and Desi in Palm Springs.

–A visually stunning presentation with rarely seen videos, exclusive interviews, and captivating archival photographs.

–Insightful explorations of the intriguing ties between Hollywood and Palm Springs, uncovering the factors that transformed both into entertainment hubs.

–Behind-the-scenes glimpses into the glamorous lifestyles and residences that brought Hollywood to the desert.

Don’t miss this unique experience, enriched by archives from the Palm Springs Historical Society, Library of Congress, National Archives, California Library System and the Academy of Motion Pictures.

Following the presentation, there will be a post-show discussion with Cook, Arnaz, and Roberts about the exciting Plaza Theatre restoration and its vision for the future as a centerpiece of downtown entertainment. Find more information at plazatheaterfoundation.org