Dezart Performs

DEZART PLAYHOUSE

OUR VISION

For the last 14 years, the multi-award winning Dezart Performs has called the Pearl McManus Theater home. But with the limited stage space, along with inflexible scheduling, they have outgrown the venue. “I fell in love with the theatre and the topics, and the way they were presented,” said Beatrice Keats, Founding donor and patron. “And they’re operating in the tiniest little space, they have no space backstage, so I think it’s time for them to have their own theater!”

After a long strategic planning process, Dezart Performs began the quiet phase of a capital campaign in May 2022, led by Co-Chairs and Founders Ann Sheffer and Nancy Bleiweiss-Nevil. Now, because of generous donors, Dezart Performs has purchased the Albert Frey-designed First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Palm Springs. The first performance in the new space is scheduled for November, 2025.

 

The 6,100 sq. ft. Dezart Playhouse will help meet the expanding needs of the Company’s continuous growth in addition to serving as a hub for diverse activities, community events and cultural engagement. The new playhouse will enhance the vibrancy of the local arts scene ensuring a variety of voices and talents are represented and celebrated. The space will be converted to include a 150 seat fully-equipped theater, dressing rooms, a rehearsal hall, meeting rooms, and lobby with box office and bar. “The transformation of this stunning Albert Frey-designed church into a state-of-the-art professional theater is not just a dream come true; it’s a profound honor,” says Founder and Artistic Director Michael Shaw. “We are privileged to have this unique and rare opportunity to breathe new life into this architectural gem. As we embark on this journey, I am filled with overwhelming joy at the prospect of creating a vibrant space for art and community in the heart of Palm Springs. This endeavor celebrates our rich history and fosters connections, creativity, and a sense of belonging for all who enter. Together, we will cultivate a dynamic environment where ideas flourish and community thrives.” The Dezart Playhouse will be open for the 2025/26 season based on the current schedule.

The new Dezart Playhouse will seat up to 150, nearly doubling its current capacity. A modern, warm and inviting lobby with a full bar will be available for use both during performances, and for other non-theatrical events. Full expanded dressings rooms, backstage areas and a designated box office are all part of the design. Besides use by Dezart Performs, the venue will also welcome other businesses, performing artists and non-profit organizations in the community to make use of the space. Based on the current plan, the Dezart Playhouse will be ready for the 2025/2026 Season.

 

BE PART OF THE NEXT STAGE

We offer a variety of ways to support Dezart Playhouse, including a multi-tiered donor recognition program to celebrate your generosity. Choose from a number of giving levels that bestow permanent recognition of your gift on our Founders Wall or Community Gifts Wall. In addition, we have many naming opportunities for specific features in the theater that are still available for gifts of $10,000 or more.

 

FOUNDERS

All donors who make a gift or pledge of at least $10,000 to support The Next Stage Campaign prior to the opening of the new theater will be recognized as FOUNDERS and will receive special recognition annually. In addition, their names will be placed on the permanent FOUNDERS WALL in the lobby of the new theater.

 

PLEDGE

Make the most of your giving. A five-year pledge of $10,000 annually makes you a $50,000 donor, qualifying you as a Founder. In addition, you can select from a variety of attractive naming opportunities, as well as other benefits. Similarly, $20,000/year adds up to $100,000, qualifying you for one of the top naming opportunities. Join in on the ground level of this exciting journey to our new home.

For more information, contact Gailya Brown at gailya.brown@dezartperforms.org