How to Tour Plaza Theatre El Paso Backstage

The Plaza Theatre in El Paso, Texas, is more than just a historic venue—it’s a living monument to the city’s cultural legacy. Opened in 1930, this Spanish Colonial Revival-style theater has hosted vaudeville acts, silent films, Broadway tours, and modern concerts for nearly a century. While many visitors enjoy the grandeur of its ornate lobby, gilded balconies, and restored murals from the front-of-house, few experience the magic that lies behind the scenes. A backstage tour of the Plaza Theatre offers an intimate glimpse into the machinery of live performance: the fly systems, dressing rooms where legends once prepared for their entrances, and the hidden corridors that connect stage to street. For theater enthusiasts, historians, and curious travelers, understanding how to tour Plaza Theatre El Paso backstage is not just a logistical question—it’s a gateway to preserving and appreciating architectural and artistic heritage.

Unlike standard guided tours that focus on public areas, a backstage experience reveals the unsung engineering, meticulous restoration efforts, and daily operations that keep the theater alive. These tours are rare, often limited to special events or by reservation only, making advance preparation essential. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of securing and enjoying a backstage tour of the Plaza Theatre—from planning and scheduling to navigating restrictions and maximizing your experience. Whether you’re a local resident, a visiting performer, or a history buff with a passion for vintage architecture, this tutorial ensures you walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry a deeper understanding of what it takes to keep a century-old theater performing.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research Tour Availability and Schedule

The first step in planning your backstage tour of the Plaza Theatre is determining when tours are offered. Unlike larger, commercial venues, the Plaza Theatre does not operate daily backstage tours due to its active performance schedule and limited staffing. Backstage access is typically reserved for scheduled group tours, educational field trips, or special events such as El Paso’s annual “Historic Downtown Walking Tours” or “Arts in the City” festivals.

Begin by visiting the official Plaza Theatre website. Look for a section labeled “Tours,” “Visit,” or “Education.” If no public tour calendar is listed, navigate to the “Contact” page and send a direct inquiry via email. Avoid calling unless absolutely necessary—email inquiries are more likely to be answered with detailed information and are easier to document for follow-up.

Check the theater’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X) for announcements. Many limited-time backstage experiences are promoted first on these platforms. For example, during National Theatre Week or Texas Heritage Month, the theater may open backstage areas for one-day-only access. Set up Google Alerts for “Plaza Theatre El Paso backstage tour” to receive notifications when new opportunities are posted.

Confirm Tour Type and Eligibility

Not all tours are created equal. The Plaza Theatre offers three primary types of backstage access:

• Group Tours (10+ people): Ideal for schools, theater clubs, or community organizations. Must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance.
• Private Tours: Available for individuals or small groups (up to 6 people) on select weekends. Requires payment of a nominal fee and advance booking.
• Event-Linked Tours: Offered as a bonus to ticket holders of select performances, such as Broadway productions or anniversary galas.

Eligibility varies. Children under 10 are generally not permitted on backstage tours due to safety regulations around rigging systems and narrow staircases. All participants must sign a liability waiver, even if they are minors—parents or guardians must complete this on their behalf. If you’re part of an educational institution, request a tailored curriculum-aligned tour. The theater’s education coordinator can design a 45-minute experience focused on stage technology, historic preservation, or performing arts careers.

Book Your Tour in Advance

Booking is non-negotiable. Backstage areas are not open for walk-ins. Once you’ve identified the type of tour you want, submit your request through the official online form on the Plaza Theatre’s website. You’ll need to provide:

• Preferred date and time (include at least two alternatives)
• Number of participants
• Contact information for the lead organizer
• Special requests (e.g., wheelchair accessibility, language interpretation)

After submission, you’ll receive an automated confirmation. Within 3–5 business days, a tour coordinator will reach out to finalize details. If you haven’t heard back after five days, follow up politely via email. Do not assume your request was received unless confirmed in writing.

Payment, if applicable, is processed through the theater’s secure online portal. Credit cards are accepted; cash is not accepted for tour bookings. Keep your receipt and confirmation email on your mobile device or printed copy—this serves as your ticket for entry.

Prepare for Your Visit

Once your tour is confirmed, preparation is key. The backstage areas include uneven flooring, low ceilings, steep stairs, and active theater infrastructure. Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes—sandals, heels, or flip-flops are prohibited. Avoid bulky jackets or bags; lockers are not available, and large items are not permitted in restricted zones.

Bring a notebook and pen. While photography is generally allowed in most backstage areas (excluding lighting and rigging control rooms), flash is prohibited. The tour guide may provide a printed handout with floor plans and historical facts—take notes to reinforce your learning.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. The main entrance is on Kansas Street. Inform the usher at the front desk that you are there for a backstage tour. They will direct you to the designated meeting point, usually near the stage left wing door, marked with a small bronze plaque.

During the Tour: What to Expect

A typical backstage tour lasts 60–75 minutes and is led by a trained docent or theater technician. Here’s what you’ll likely experience:

• Stage Floor and Rigging System: Learn how the counterweight fly system operates—used to raise and lower curtains, lights, and set pieces. The theater still uses original 1930s ropes and pulleys, maintained by a certified rigger.
• Dressing Rooms: Visit the original artist dressing rooms, some of which still bear signatures and graffiti from performers dating back to the 1940s. Notable names include Judy Garland, Bing Crosby, and Mexican film icon Pedro Infante.
• Wings and Trap Doors: Walk the narrow side wings where actors wait for cues. See the trap doors used for special effects in classic productions.
• Lighting and Sound Booths: Observe the evolution of theater technology—from hand-operated dimmers to digital consoles. The current sound system was installed in 2018 but retains analog controls for historical accuracy.
• Prop and Costume Storage: Explore the climate-controlled storage rooms holding over 2,000 period costumes and hundreds of handmade props, many donated by touring companies.
• Backstage Corridors and Stage Door: Walk the same halls used by performers to enter and exit. The stage door leads to a small alley where fans once waited for autographs.

Ask questions. The guides are passionate about the theater’s history and are happy to share anecdotes—such as how the original chandelier was salvaged from a demolished opera house in New Orleans, or how the theater survived a 1950s fire thanks to the quick action of stagehands.

After the Tour: Follow-Up and Documentation

After your tour, take time to reflect. Write down your top three takeaways. Did you learn something unexpected? Was there a particular artifact or story that moved you?

Consider sharing your experience on social media using the hashtag

PlazaTheatreBackstage. Tag the theater’s official accounts—they often repost visitor content. If you’re a student or educator, submit a short reflection paper to the theater’s education department. They may feature your work in their annual newsletter.

Keep your tour confirmation and any handouts. These may be useful for future reference, especially if you’re researching for a project or planning a return visit. Some visitors return for specialized tours focused on acoustics, lighting design, or historic restoration techniques.

Best Practices

Respect the Space

The Plaza Theatre is a working historic venue, not a museum. Backstage areas are active work zones. Never touch lighting instruments, ropes, or control panels. Even seemingly harmless actions—like leaning on a curtain rail or resting a hand on a prop—can cause damage or trigger safety hazards. The theater’s staff works daily to maintain the integrity of the building, and your cooperation ensures these spaces remain accessible to future visitors.

Follow All Instructions

Guides will give you specific instructions about where to stand, when to stop, and which doors to avoid. These are not suggestions—they are safety protocols. For example, the fly loft above the stage is a confined space with heavy counterweights. A single misstep could result in injury or equipment failure. Always stay behind marked lines and never attempt to climb or reach for anything.

Dress Appropriately

As noted earlier, footwear is critical. The backstage floors are concrete and may be damp from cleaning or weather leaks. Avoid clothing with long flowing fabric that could snag on rigging. Hats should be removed in enclosed areas out of respect for the space and other visitors.

Limit Photography

While photography is generally permitted, be mindful of others. Do not block pathways or crowd around a guide while taking photos. Avoid using flash, which can damage delicate fabrics and paint. If a guide asks you to stop taking pictures, comply immediately. Some areas, such as the electrical control room or costume conservation lab, are off-limits to cameras due to proprietary or sensitive content.

Engage with the Staff

Backstage staff are not just guides—they are custodians of history. Many have worked at the theater for decades. Ask them about their personal experiences. What’s the most unusual prop they’ve handled? What’s the most memorable performance they’ve seen? These human stories add depth to the architectural facts and turn a tour into a meaningful encounter.

Support the Theater

Backstage tours are often subsidized by ticket sales and donations. If you’re able, consider making a donation during or after your visit. Even $10 helps fund restoration projects. You can also purchase a souvenir from the gift shop—many items are handmade by local artisans and support the theater’s nonprofit mission.

Plan for Accessibility

The Plaza Theatre is partially ADA-compliant. While the main lobby and auditorium are accessible, some backstage areas involve stairs and narrow passages. If you or someone in your group has mobility challenges, notify the theater when booking. They may offer an alternate route or a video tour of restricted areas. The theater’s accessibility coordinator can be reached via email for detailed planning.

Be Mindful of Noise

Backstage areas are acoustically sensitive. Loud conversations, ringing phones, or sudden movements can disrupt rehearsals or technical cues. Silence your phone completely. If you need to make a call, step into the main lobby. Remember: you’re not just a visitor—you’re a guest in a working theater.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

The Plaza Theatre’s official website (plazatheatreelpaso.org) is your primary resource. It contains the most accurate tour schedules, contact forms, historical timelines, and educational materials. Bookmark this site and check it regularly, as updates are posted frequently.

El Paso Public Library Archives

The El Paso Public Library’s Southwest Collection holds extensive materials on the Plaza Theatre, including original blueprints, performance programs from the 1930s–1960s, and oral histories with former staff. Visit in person or request digital scans via their online archive portal. Search for “Plaza Theatre Backstage Oral Histories” to access firsthand accounts from stagehands and ushers.

Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS)

The U.S. Library of Congress maintains HABS documentation on the Plaza Theatre, including measured drawings and high-resolution photographs taken during the 1980s restoration. These are available at loc.gov/habs. Use these resources to compare the theater’s current state with its original design—ideal for architecture students or preservationists.

Local Theater Groups

Join the El Paso Theatre Alliance or the Southwest Theater Network. These organizations often host exclusive behind-the-scenes events and may offer members priority access to backstage tours. Attend their monthly meetups to network with people who’ve toured the theater and gain insider tips.

Mobile Apps

Download the “Historic El Paso” app by the city’s cultural affairs department. It includes an audio walking tour that includes the Plaza Theatre, with a dedicated segment on backstage history. The app also features augmented reality overlays that show how the theater looked in 1930 versus today.

Books and Documentaries

• “The Plaza Theatre: A Century of Light and Sound” by Dr. Elena Ruiz – The definitive history of the theater, with a full chapter on backstage operations.
• “Voices of the Stage Door” – A documentary short produced by Texas Public Radio, featuring interviews with former performers and crew members.
• “Restoring the Golden Age: Historic Theaters of the Southwest” – Includes a case study on the Plaza Theatre’s 2006 restoration.

Volunteer Programs

Consider volunteering with the Plaza Theatre’s Preservation Corps. Volunteers assist with archival work, docent training, and event support. After completing a 10-hour training program, you may qualify for exclusive backstage access outside of public tours. This is an excellent way to deepen your connection to the space.

Online Forums and Communities

Join Reddit’s r/ElPaso or r/TheaterHistory. Members frequently post about upcoming backstage tours, share photos from past visits, and answer questions about access policies. Search “Plaza Theatre backstage” to find threads with real visitor experiences.

Real Examples

Example 1: High School Theater Class Tour

In spring 2023, a drama teacher from Franklin High School in El Paso organized a group of 22 students for a backstage tour. The group had studied the history of American theater and wanted to see how 1930s technology influenced modern stagecraft. The tour included a live demonstration of the fly system, where students took turns pulling ropes under supervision. One student, Maria Lopez, later wrote: “I never realized how much physics is involved in raising a curtain. Now I want to study stage engineering.” The theater later invited the class to attend a matinee performance and write a review for their newsletter.

Example 2: Retired Stagehand Reunion

In 2021, a group of seven retired Plaza Theatre technicians—some of whom had worked there since the 1960s—requested a private tour to revisit the backstage areas. The theater arranged a special afternoon tour with the current head rigger. As they walked through the wings, one man pointed to a scuff mark on the floor: “That’s where I dropped my coffee in ’78. Never lived it down.” The tour ended with a group photo in front of the original 1930s stage curtain, now preserved behind glass. The theater displayed the photo in their lobby for six months.

Example 3: International Film Crew

A documentary crew from Mexico City visited the Plaza Theatre in 2022 while filming a segment on historic theaters in border cities. They were granted exclusive access to the costume storage room, where they filmed a 1940s flamenco dress used in a Mexican film premiere. The crew later donated a copy of the film to the theater’s archive. The theater now shows it annually during Dia de los Muertos.

Example 4: First-Time Visitor with Disability

A visitor from Austin, Texas, who uses a wheelchair, contacted the theater months in advance to inquire about accessibility. The theater arranged a modified tour that bypassed stairs and included a detailed video tour of the fly loft and lighting booth. The visitor later wrote: “I thought I’d miss out on the magic. Instead, I felt more connected than ever. The staff didn’t just accommodate me—they made me part of the story.”

Example 5: Wedding Photographer’s Research Visit

A professional photographer planning a wedding at the Plaza Theatre requested a backstage tour to understand lighting angles and structural elements for photo compositions. The tour revealed hidden arches and reflective surfaces that became key features in the couple’s engagement shoot. The photographer now includes a “Plaza Theatre Backstage Secrets” guide in their wedding portfolio.

FAQs

Can I tour the Plaza Theatre backstage without booking?

No. Backstage areas are not open for walk-in access due to safety regulations and active performances. All tours require advance reservation.

Are children allowed on backstage tours?

Children aged 10 and older are permitted. Children under 10 are not allowed due to the presence of heavy rigging and narrow passages. Some educational tours may have exceptions for younger students with direct adult supervision.

How long does a backstage tour last?

Most tours last between 60 and 75 minutes. Private tours may be extended to 90 minutes upon request.

Is photography allowed backstage?

Yes, but without flash. Some areas, such as the lighting control room or costume conservation lab, are camera-free zones. Always ask your guide before taking photos.

Do I need to pay for a backstage tour?

Group tours for schools are often free with prior approval. Private tours for individuals or small groups typically cost $15 per person. Event-linked tours are included with ticket purchase. Check the website for current pricing.

Can I bring a bag or purse?

Small clutch-sized bags are allowed. Larger bags, backpacks, or luggage must be left in the main lobby. Lockers are not available.

Are tours available in Spanish?

Yes. Spanish-language tours are available by request. Notify the theater when booking, and they will assign a bilingual guide.

What if I’m running late for my tour?

Tours begin promptly. If you’re more than 10 minutes late, your group may be combined with another or your tour may be canceled without refund. Always plan for traffic or parking delays.

Can I bring food or drinks?

No. Food and beverages are prohibited backstage to prevent damage to historic materials and to avoid attracting pests.

Is the theater wheelchair accessible backstage?

Some areas are accessible, but not all. The theater offers modified tours for visitors with mobility needs. Contact them in advance to coordinate accommodations.

How far in advance should I book?

For group tours, book at least two weeks ahead. For private tours, aim for three to four weeks, especially during peak seasons (September–December).

Can I volunteer to lead a backstage tour?

Yes. The theater trains volunteers as docents. Requirements include a background check and completion of a 10-hour training course. Apply via the volunteer page on their website.

Conclusion

Touring the backstage of the Plaza Theatre in El Paso is not merely a sightseeing activity—it’s an act of cultural preservation. Every creak of the floorboards, every faded signature on a dressing room door, every rusted pulley in the fly system tells a story of resilience, artistry, and community. This guide has walked you through the essential steps to secure access, prepare for the experience, and honor the legacy of a space that has echoed with laughter, music, and tears for nearly a century.

By following the best practices outlined here—respecting the space, preparing thoughtfully, and engaging deeply—you transform from a passive observer into an active participant in the theater’s ongoing story. The tools and resources provided offer pathways to further exploration, whether through academic research, volunteer work, or personal reflection.

Real examples show that these tours leave lasting impressions—not just on students and historians, but on photographers, families, and even retired crew members returning to the place they once called home. The Plaza Theatre is not frozen in time; it breathes, adapts, and endures because people care enough to walk its backstage corridors, ask questions, and share what they’ve learned.

So take the next step. Visit the website. Send the email. Book the tour. Step through that stage door. You’re not just seeing a theater—you’re stepping into a living archive, where every shadow holds a memory, and every spotlight still remembers its purpose.