The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation, has engaged Oak View Group (OVG), a professional venue management company, to handle the day‑to‑day operations of the theatre. OVG manages programming, staffing, ticketing, hospitality, facility operations, and the guest experience for performances and events.  

The all volunteer Foundation Board focuses on governance and community oversight rather than daily operations. We set the mission, vision, and priorities for the Plaza Theatre, establish policies, steward the theatre’s finances and fundraising, and hold our operating partner accountable for performance that aligns with community goals.

The Board does not book individual shows on a day‑to‑day basis, but we do set the overall framework for programming at the theatre. Within that framework, OVG books performances and events—music, comedy, film, lectures, community events, and more—that match the priorities and values established by the Board. The Board looks at the mix of commercial shows, nonprofit and community events, and access initiatives to ensure that the Plaza Theatre is both financially sustainable and serving the public good.

The Foundation Board sets policy and expectations for the balance between revenue‑generating events and community or nonprofit use of the theatre. Our agreement with the City of Palm Springs also provides 21 days of theater use per year for city functions. OVG then builds the calendar within those guidelines, working with local organizations, promoters, and artists to achieve the mix the Board envisions.

The Board sets expectations for affordability, access, and inclusivity and works with OVG to design pricing strategies and programs that reflect those values. Because ticket sales typically cover only part of a nonprofit theatre’s operating costs, we also rely on philanthropy and sponsorships to keep prices reasonable while maintaining high‑quality programming. Additionally, the board dedicates resources to provide for subsidized ticket programs  in conjunction with our non-profit partners. 

The all volunteer Foundation Board is composed of a diverse group of community leaders and residents who view the theatre as a civic asset, not just a performance venue. We listen to feedback from neighbors, nonprofits, local businesses, and audiences, and translate that input into policies, programming priorities, and partnerships that serve the broader Palm Springs community.

Yes. The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All donations are fully deductible to the extent allowed by law.