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No more lines to get into the Paramount Theatre during the next 10 to 11 months as workers renovate and restore the “Populist Palace” on Congress Avenue.<\/p>\n
Ricardo B. Brazziell\/American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The\u00a0Paramount Theatre<\/a> will close to the public on June 16 for an estimated 10 to 11 months of construction and restoration. Before that, admission for “Last Call” tours and other activities on June 15 will be free with RSVP.<\/p>\n We asked Paramount CEO Jim Ritts for details on what to expect during the coming year.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n Where will all the shows go?<\/p>\n American-Statesman: Where should folks look for acts that otherwise would have taken place at the Paramount?<\/p>\n Jim Ritts: The Paramount will be temporarily closed, but the magic of the theater and the people behind it will continue beyond its walls. Audiences can expect Paramount-produced events at venues throughout Austin, along with expanded programming at the State Theatre while the Paramount work is underway. We’ll host as many as 10 Summer Classic Film Series<\/a> screenings at the Bullock Texas State History Museum’s IMAX Theatre, and we’ve already announced live shows at Hogg Memorial Auditorium<\/a> on the University of Texas campus, the AISD Performing Arts Center in Mueller and Radio East. The best place to stay updated is by visiting austintheatre.org<\/a> to join our email list, or follow our social channels (@paramountaustin).<\/p>\n The actual work inside the theater<\/p>\n Most of the remaining work on the Paramount Theatre in Austin will be on the interior. The State Theatre next door is a whole other story that will wait for at least a year to start.<\/p>\n Michael Granberry\/Dallas Morning News<\/p>\n What is the biggest job on the Paramount redo?<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n This is a comprehensive restoration, technical modernization effort and improved patron comfort. One of the biggest components is upgrading the theater\u2019s infrastructure, including the replacement of all seating and technological upgrades while carefully preserving its historic character. That includes restoring historic plaster, paint work, chandeliers and architectural details, while also integrating updated wiring, sound, lighting and energy-efficient systems behind the scenes. It\u2019s a delicate balance of preservation and evolution.<\/p>\n Most importantly what can you tell us about the new seats?<\/p>\n Seats will be replaced with custom-designed seating that feels true to the Paramount\u2019s historic character while dramatically improving comfort and accessibility for modern audiences. And the new seats will have retractable cup holders. Additionally, all of the historic decorative\u00a0endcaps at the end of each row of seats will be restored and installed with the new seats.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n The look and feel of the refreshed Paramount<\/p>\n What can visitors expect in terms of fresh amenities?<\/p>\n All new seating including enhanced aisle lighting Will anything inside the house look different? <\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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\nImproved ADA accessibility
\nExpanded and upgraded restroom facilities
\nExpanded concession areas
\nRestored decorative finishes and art throughout the entire theater that will be consistent with the look and color palette of 1930-31 when the Majestic Theatre became the Paramount
\nImproved audio and lighting capabilities
\nThe long-imagined third-floor lounge space for community gatherings, donor happy hours and special events<\/p>\n