The Plaza Theatre Philanthropy Annex Opens
by Mary Johnson

When the Plaza Theatre reopened after 20 long years in hibernation, people could not stop talking. The recaptured beauty. The phenomenal sound quality. The ability to make new memories in a place that has meant so much to so many. Amid the controversial politics of Downtown plans and revitalization, the Plaza Theatre (thanks to the efforts of the El Paso Community Foundation) had taken action. People would now come Downtown for a show and want to then eat Downtown, drink Downtown, socialize Downtown. The reopening of the Plaza started a renaissance in Downtown El Paso. Now, with the opening of the Plaza Theatre Philanthropy Annex, it continues.

A gift from the El Paso Community Foundation to the city of El Paso, the Philanthropy Annex has been completely renovated and re-created into a multi-functional facility that mirrors the beauty and elegance of the adjoining Plaza Theatre.

At street level, the building’s plethora of French doors open into the Oasis, a sophisticated cocktail area designed by Don Waters. The wall behind the semi-circular bar is done in red onyx stone and backlit to highlight the gorgeous color. To the left of the bar, French doors open onto Arts Festival Plaza, providing a perfect place for evenings alfresco. Outside, color kinetic lighting illuminates the exterior façade, creating a mural of light across the walls.

On the second level of the annex, the Philanthropy Theatre provides a perfect venue for movie screenings, small theatre productions and presentations. The facility, dedicated to all permanent fund donors to the El Paso Community Foundation from 1977 to 2006, seats 184 people and is equipped with a superior, touch-screen, Wi-Fi-capable sound system, making it easily the most capable presentation facility in El Paso.
Up on the third level of the building, the Joe Alcantar, Jr. Sky Garden stretches across the roof to offer a stunning outdoor venue complete with a bird’s-eye view of historic Downtown. Perfect for family events and business gatherings, the Sky Garden is a unique alternative to old El Paso staples.

No longer is the Plaza Theatre merely a destination for live performances. With the addition of the Philanthropy Annex, it has officially become an all-purpose facility, continuously committed to improving the quality of life in all of El Paso.