Dezart Performs has entered a pivotal new chapter as Phase Two of the Dezart Playhouse transformation begins, advancing the adaptive reuse of the former First Church of Christ, Scientist into a fully equipped, modern performing arts center. Following the successful completion of Phase One during Season 18, the company now moves forward with major upgrades supported by a generous additional $200,000 gift from writer/producer and longtime supporter David Clark Lee, who has challenged the community to match his contribution. Artistic Director Michael Shaw notes that Lee’s continued support is instrumental in helping the Playhouse reach its full potential as one of Palm Springs’ premier cultural venues.
Architect Susan Secoy‑Jensen is leading the redesign of the 1957 Robson Chambers and Albert Frey Mid‑Century Modern landmark, ensuring the building’s historic character remains intact while its interior evolves to meet the needs of a state‑of‑the‑art theater. Phase One delivered a fully equipped performance space, new electrical and lighting grid, four dressing rooms, and a break room. Phase Two expands the project with elevated theater‑style seating for improved sightlines, a full‑service lobby bar, ADA‑compliant restrooms, upgraded plumbing, and enhanced backstage amenities including laundry facilities, a dishwasher, and a rehearsal room outfitted with industrial‑grade flooring, dance mirrors, and dedicated storage.
The transformation is further bolstered by the building’s newly approved Class 1 Historical Landmark status, granted by the Palm Springs City Council on April 22, 2026. Landscape Architect JC Miller will incorporate original landscape concepts featuring native desert flora to complement the building’s preserved exterior.
To date, Dezart Performs has raised more than $2.4 million toward the purchase and renovation of the Playhouse, with an estimated $700,000 still needed to complete Phase Two. Major donors will receive permanent recognition as Founders and may select from remaining naming opportunities, including the lobby bar and rehearsal room. Those interested in supporting the campaign may contact Gailya Brown at gailya.brown@dezartperforms.org.
The NEW Dezart Playhouse debuted its inaugural season in November 2025 with Jerome Robbins’ West Side Story in Concert and concluded with Terrence McNally’s Love! Valour! Compassion! The venue has already welcomed other local arts organizations, including the Palm Springs Opera Guild’s staging of scenes from Fellow Travelers. Season 19, featuring an expanded slate of productions and community events, will be announced in June.
As Palm Springs’ only Equity theatre and one of the Coachella Valley’s leading performing arts companies, Dezart Performs continues its mission to present bold, thought‑provoking work while fostering artistic growth and cultural engagement. More information is available at dezartperforms.org.