The details
Self-proclaimed to be “the city’s most iconic cultural anchors,” the organization has released plans for how the spaces will be updated and transformed to better serve today’s community and that of the future.
“Supporting the arts and what they represent, in terms of human achievement and community, is critical. The arts highlight humanity and they make us better,” said Duff Steward, chair of the Austin Theater Alliance.
The Paramount will close in June for its first full restoration in more than 50 years, according to a news release. The eight-to-nine-month project will bring modern infrastructure, new seating, expanded restrooms and concessions, Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades, and improved sound and lighting, as well as the completion of a long-planned upstairs lounge.
The State Theatre will follow with a 13-to-16-month overhaul featuring an art-deco-inspired interior redesign, flexible seating for up to 500, a basement speakeasy, rooftop deck, and expanded concessions and accessibility. The State’s construction will begin after the Paramount’s work wraps up, with a start date still to be determined.
“New meets old,” Austin Theater Alliance CEO Jim Ritts said, emphasizing the historic restoration work the Paramount will see, while the State Theater is expected to bridge the gap to the next generation of art lovers and supporters, he said.
Of note
The theater is a major economic driver for the downtown area, according to venue officials. Over the past year, theater records show that the agency and the facilities it oversees welcomed more than 290,000 guests, representing a $25 million economic impact for the downtown area.
“When you're coming to the theater, it's not simply just going to listen to a musician or watching a performance. It's also about the before and the after experience. This is an economic generator,” said Davon Barbour, CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance.
Looking ahead
During the closure, patrons of Paramount-produced events will be able to catch shows at other venues around Austin, as well as increased programming at the current State Theatre.
Those interested in contributing to the fundraising effort can find additional information about the Shine On campaign and the planned renovations to the Paramount and State Theatres by visiting www.austintheatre.org/shineon.
