Plaza Theater (Tucson)
The Plaza Theater was the crowning jewel of 1920s development on West Congress Street in
"regarded the Plaza as Tucson's own theater, since all local employes [sic
Built on the corner of West Congress and Plaza Streets (later Court Avenue) the exterior was constructed in a
The interior decorations were described at the time of opening as "being typical of the old southwest motif. The auditorium will have seating capacity of 650 and will be modern in every respect with ample heating, ventilating and cooling systems. Acoustic plastering will be used throughout and is designed along the most modern methods for the projection of sound pictures." When constructed the building had a state-of-the-art RCA projector and sound equipment, "the walls lined with a highly absorbent material to insure perfect acoustics."
The theater was purchased by Arizona 'theater czar' Nick Diamos, also the owner of the Tucson Lyric Theater and involved in the development of Tucson's
At the time of demolition the Plaza was owned by Abelardo M. Campillo and Jesus M. Granillo. The last owners were forced from their property by the City of Tucson and its urban renewal program. The owners reminded the city "that if the Plaza goes, nothing of the Old City will be left in the area."
The plaza was demolished on May 15, 1969.
See also
- Rialto Theatre (Arizona)
- Fox Theatre (Tucson, Arizona)
References
- Tucson Daily Citizen, "Plaza Theater Opens Doors Tonight", July 3, 1930.
- Arizona Daily Star, "Another Movie Playhouse to be Built Here", Feb. 22, 1930.
- Arizona Daily Star, "Urban Renewal To Claim Plaza Theater March 15", Martin Haynes, March 1, 1969
- Arizona Daily Star, "The Play Won't Go On Any More", May 15, 1969.