46 years. That’s how long it’s been since the Paramount Theatre was last renovated and restored. The historic, 110-year-old theater is due for some TLC, and that’s what’s in store with the Shine On campaign.
The teams behind the Paramount Theatre and the Austin Theater Alliance debuted plans to refresh both the Paramount and completely reimagine the State Theatre on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
The project is expected to begin in June, and the organization hopes to raise ~$65 million to cover costs, of which $27 million has already been pledged. Once revitalization begins, the Paramount will close for around nine months. Let’s take a closer look at the plans.
The Paramount
First, the Paramount’s 1,200 seats will be completely replaced with custom, “modern-yet-period-appropriate” seating. That said, end caps on each row of seating will be preserved and included in the new design.
Paying homage to 1900s blueprints that included a ballroom that never came to fruition, the third floor will become “JP’s Peace, Love, and Happiness Lounge.” The new space will be made possible by a $7.25 million gift from local billionaire John Paul DeJoria.
Finally — after decades of foot traffic, performances, movie premieres, and smoking in the olden days — the artwork inside the theater will receive comprehensive restoration treatment to the paint work, plaster molding, and chandeliers.
Here are a few more improvements in the plans:
- Modernized wiring, sound systems, and lighting
- An elevator that connects the Paramount and State Theatres, plus improved ADA access
- Upgraded restrooms and concession stands
- A new HVAC system
The State
Though the State Theatre is ~90 years old, Austin Theatre Alliance CEO Jim Ritts said not much about its interior is historic apart from its facade. The iconic sign will be preserved, but the interior will be entirely redesigned.
The project will ditch the “greige” interior (Ritts’s words, not ours) in favor of a more art deco-inspired space, which will feature a basement speakeasy, a rooftop deck, qnd our concession areas. Inside the theater, the project will increase capacity from 300 to 435 seats, or 500 with standing room, with the ability to flex the space between shows.
Want to contribute to the project? Get more info here.
