Shooting continues in El Paso as work on the restoration of the Plaza Theatre goes into high gear. A substantial portion of the heavy construction work on the expanded stage and stage house in nearing completion. We are told that this structure should be closed off and finished by June.

Just starting this month is work by some of the artisans who will be restoring the ornamental features of the theatre: plaster work, gold leaf, decorative painting, hanging fabrics, carpeting and new theatre seats.

At this pace, the project managers are optimistic that all work will be near completion by October of 2005 with a Grand Opening scheduled for the December or January.

Producer Jeffrey Mills also acquired video footage from the CBS affiliate in El Paso during this shoot that documents many of the early years of struggle by the city to save the plaza, including tours, city council meetings, protests, and several stories on entertainer Rita Moreno's benefit gala that saved the theatre from the wrecking ball.

Click here to see a gallery of the latest construction images.