The Plaza Theatre is located at 115 E. Main St. It was opened in 1934. Michael Crimmins/Glasgow News 1.
STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Glasgow’s own historic Plaza Theatre was featured in the article: “12 Fascinating Historic Kentucky Theaters” by Kentucky Tourism as number 11. The article does not indicate that these 12 historical theaters are ranked, but rather just 12 “historic theaters that can be found across the Bluegrass State.”
“Kentucky has some of the finest restored historic theaters that are still in operation today,” the website states. “From variety shows to concerts to old and new movies, these theaters offer a world of entertainment for local communities.”
The theaters on the list includes theaters in Russellville, Bowling Green, Lexington, Maysville, Frankfort, Ludlow, Elizabethtown, Hopkinsville, Louisville, Ashland and Covington. At the time of publication Kentucky Tourism has not responded to email requests detailing how the theaters are selected or how many were contenders. This article will be updated when new information becomes available.
Bruce Aspley — following in his father’s footsteps — purchased his first theater in 1915 that was also in Glasgow called The Dixie. Aspley went on to buy the Lyon Opera House in downtown Glasgow, which was renamed the Trigg Theatre after renovations. It was through the revenue generated by endeavor that he purchased the Plaza in 1934.
The following year the theater started “offering stage shows as an additional form of entertainment.” Since that time the Plaza has seen a variety of talented musicians such as Loretta Lynn, Minnie Pearl and Dolly Parton. Aspley sold the theater in 1973 to the Slinker family who used it show movies and rent to local groups. It closed to movies and other such events in the 1990s.
The city bought the Plaza in 2001 and began using city funds, government grants and individual contributions to renovate the historic theater. The theater seats 1020 people and host numerous regional and national artists.
“We aim to bring the best entertainment to the town of Glasgow KY for all to enjoy both locally and from surrounding counties and states,” the Plaza website states.
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