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Paramount Theatre (Oakland, California) Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: The Paramount Theatre: History, Architecture, and Cultural Significance

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The Paramount Theatre: History, Architecture, and Cultural Significance Study Guide

Founding, Architecture, and Design

The Paramount Theatre has a seating capacity of exactly 3,040.

Answer: False

Explanation: The source material indicates that the Paramount Theatre possesses a seating capacity of 3,476 when originally built, and 3,040 after renovations. The statement specifies 'exactly 3,040' which is true for its current capacity, but the original capacity was different. However, the flashcard fc_1758730561_57ed09036bc8 states 3,040, and fc_1758730561_38206b553893 states 3,476 as original. Given the question asks about 'exactly 3,040', and this is a stated capacity, we will mark it True based on the existence of that figure. A more precise question would differentiate original vs. current capacity.

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The Paramount Theatre first opened its doors in the early 1940s.

Answer: False

Explanation: Contrary to the assertion, the Paramount Theatre commenced operations in 1931, not the early 1940s.

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The architectural style of the Paramount Theatre is primarily influenced by the Baroque period.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre's architectural style is predominantly Art Deco, not Baroque. Its design was inspired by the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes.

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The Paramount Theatre was originally built as a convention center.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre was constructed as a movie palace, not as a convention center.

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Adolph Zukor's Paramount Publix Corporation commissioned the Paramount Theatre, designed by Timothy L. Pflueger.

Answer: True

Explanation: The commission for the Paramount Theatre originated from Adolph Zukor's Paramount Publix Corporation, with Timothy L. Pflueger serving as the principal architect.

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The construction cost of the Paramount Theatre was $3 million in 1931.

Answer: True

Explanation: The construction of the Paramount Theatre incurred a cost of $3 million upon its completion in 1931.

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The Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre was inspired by the 1935 Paris Exposition.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre was inspired by the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, not the 1935 Paris Exposition.

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A Wurlitzer Publix I organ was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931 for $20,000.

Answer: True

Explanation: A Wurlitzer Publix I organ was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931 at an expenditure of $20,000.

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The original seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre in 1931 was 3,040.

Answer: False

Explanation: The original seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre in 1931 was 3,476, not 3,040.

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The architectural firm Miller and Pflueger, led by Timothy L. Pflueger, designed the Paramount Theatre.

Answer: True

Explanation: The architectural firm Miller and Pflueger, under the direction of Timothy L. Pflueger, was responsible for the design of the Paramount Theatre.

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The 'Fountain of Light' is an architectural feature located above the Paramount Theatre's marquee.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 'Fountain of Light' is an architectural element situated within the Grand Lobby of the Paramount Theatre, positioned above the entrance and marquee.

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Timothy L. Pflueger patented the ceiling grid system used in the Paramount Theatre's auditorium.

Answer: True

Explanation: Timothy L. Pflueger held a patent for the ceiling grid system that spans the entirety of the Paramount Theatre's auditorium.

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The dark windows in the far auditorium wall were intended for film projectors and spotlights.

Answer: True

Explanation: The dark windows situated in the far wall of the auditorium were designated for housing film projectors and spotlights.

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According to the source, what is the seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: 3,040 seats

Explanation: The source material indicates that the seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre is 3,040 seats.

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In which year did the Paramount Theatre originally open its doors?

Answer: 1931

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre originally opened its doors in the year 1931.

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Which architectural style is most prominently associated with the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: Art Deco

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is most prominently associated with the Art Deco architectural style.

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Who commissioned the construction of the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: Adolph Zukor's Paramount Publix Corporation

Explanation: The construction of the Paramount Theatre was commissioned by Adolph Zukor's Paramount Publix Corporation.

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What was the approximate construction cost of the Paramount Theatre when it was completed?

Answer: $3 million

Explanation: The approximate construction cost of the Paramount Theatre upon its completion was $3 million.

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The Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre draws inspiration from which international event?

Answer: The 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes

Explanation: The Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre draws inspiration from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes.

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What type of musical instrument was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931?

Answer: A Wurlitzer Publix I organ

Explanation: A Wurlitzer Publix I organ was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931.

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What was the original seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre when it was built?

Answer: 3,476

Explanation: The original seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre when it was built was 3,476.

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What was the purpose of the dark windows located in the far wall of the auditorium, as seen in a 1932 image?

Answer: Film projectors and spotlights

Explanation: The dark windows situated in the far wall of the auditorium were designated for housing film projectors and spotlights.

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Historical Operations and Transformations

A major renovation of the Paramount Theatre was completed in 1973.

Answer: True

Explanation: A significant renovation and restoration project for the Paramount Theatre was indeed completed in 1973.

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Premiere tickets for the Paramount Theatre were priced at $1.50 for balcony seats.

Answer: False

Explanation: Premiere tickets for the Paramount Theatre were priced at sixty cents for balcony seats and eighty-five cents for orchestra seats, not $1.50.

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The opening night program included a newsreel, a cartoon, live music, and a stage show.

Answer: True

Explanation: The inaugural program on opening night featured a newsreel, a cartoon presentation, live musical performances, and a dedicated stage show.

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The Paramount Theatre closed less than a year after opening due to exceeding operating expenses.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre experienced an initial closure less than a year after its opening, primarily attributed to unsustainable operating expenses.

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Upon reopening in 1933, management reduced expenses by eliminating stage shows and unscrewing light bulbs.

Answer: True

Explanation: Upon its reopening in 1933, management implemented cost-reduction measures, including the elimination of stage shows and orchestra performances, and reduced energy consumption by turning off lights.

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During World War II, the Paramount Theatre served as a gathering place for servicemen near the Port of Oakland.

Answer: True

Explanation: During the Second World War, the Paramount Theatre functioned as a significant gathering point for servicemen, particularly those associated with the nearby Port of Oakland.

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In the 1950s, the Paramount Theatre added modern digital projectors and sound systems.

Answer: False

Explanation: In the 1950s, the Paramount Theatre underwent modernization by installing popcorn machines and candy counters and updating lobby lighting with neon tubes; it did not add digital projectors.

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The last film shown before the September 15, 1970 closure was a documentary about The Beatles.

Answer: True

Explanation: The final film screened prior to the September 15, 1970 closure was the documentary 'Let It Be,' which featured The Beatles.

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The Paramount Theatre reopened on September 22, 1973, after its restoration.

Answer: True

Explanation: Following its restoration efforts, the Paramount Theatre resumed operations on September 22, 1973.

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Fanchon & Marco's 'Slavique Idea' was a forty-minute revue featured during the theatre's gala premiere.

Answer: True

Explanation: Fanchon & Marco's 'Slavique Idea,' a forty-minute revue, was indeed a featured performance during the theatre's gala premiere.

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In the 1950s, the Paramount Theatre's lobby lighting was updated with fluorescent tubes.

Answer: False

Explanation: In the 1950s, the Paramount Theatre's lobby lighting was updated with neon tubing in red and blue, not fluorescent tubes.

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What significant event occurred at the Paramount Theatre in 1973?

Answer: A major renovation and restoration project was completed.

Explanation: In 1973, a major renovation and restoration project for the Paramount Theatre was completed.

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Why did the Paramount Theatre initially close less than a year after its opening?

Answer: Inability to meet operating expenses and competition.

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre initially closed less than a year after its opening due to its inability to meet operating expenses and face competition.

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What cost-saving measure did management implement upon the theatre's reopening in May 1933?

Answer: Operating without a stage show or orchestra.

Explanation: Upon reopening in May 1933, management implemented cost-saving measures such as operating without a stage show or orchestra.

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During World War II, the Paramount Theatre served an important role for which group?

Answer: Servicemen as a gathering place.

Explanation: During World War II, the Paramount Theatre served as a gathering place for servicemen.

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What changes were made to the Paramount Theatre's lobby in the 1950s?

Answer: Installation of popcorn machines and candy counters.

Explanation: In the 1950s, the Paramount Theatre's lobby saw changes including the installation of popcorn machines and candy counters, and the replacement of incandescent lighting with neon tubing.

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What was the final film shown at the Paramount Theatre before its second closure on September 15, 1970?

Answer: Let It Be

Explanation: The final film shown at the Paramount Theatre before its closure on September 15, 1970, was 'Let It Be'.

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Ownership, Management, and Preservation

The City of Oakland owns the Paramount Theatre and it operates as a for-profit enterprise.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the City of Oakland owns the Paramount Theatre, it operates as a nonprofit entity, not a for-profit enterprise.

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The Paramount Theatre holds designations as a U.S. National Register of Historic Places site and a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is recognized with significant historical designations, including its listing on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and its designation as a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

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The Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the Paramount Theatre for $1 million in 1972.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association acquired the Paramount Theatre in 1972 through a purchase valued at $1 million.

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The Oakland Symphony transferred the Paramount Theatre to the City of Oakland in 1975 for $1, receiving 40 years of free rent.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 1975, the Oakland Symphony transferred ownership of the Paramount Theatre to the City of Oakland for a nominal sum of $1, in exchange for a 40-year period of rent-free occupancy.

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The Paramount Theatre is currently managed by its original owner, Paramount Publix Corporation.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is not managed by its original owner; it is currently overseen by a nonprofit organization established after its transfer to the City of Oakland.

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The Paramount Theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 14, 1973.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre was officially inscribed on the National Register of Historic Places on August 14, 1973.

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The Paramount Theatre was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1977.

Answer: True

Explanation: The designation of the Paramount Theatre as a U.S. National Historic Landmark occurred in 1977.

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The Paramount Theatre is designated as California Historical Landmark No. 9.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is designated as California Historical Landmark No. 884, not No. 9.

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Oakland Designated Landmark No. 9 is assigned to the Paramount Theatre.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is indeed assigned Oakland Designated Landmark No. 9.

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How did the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association acquire the Paramount Theatre in 1972?

Answer: They purchased it for $1 million.

Explanation: The Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association acquired the Paramount Theatre in 1972 by purchasing it for $1 million.

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Which of the following was a renovation made after the Oakland Symphony's purchase in 1972?

Answer: Installation of new, wider seats.

Explanation: Following the Oakland Symphony's purchase in 1972, renovations included the installation of new, wider seats with increased legroom.

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What was the financial arrangement when the Oakland Symphony transferred the theatre to the City of Oakland?

Answer: The symphony received 40 years of free rent for $1.

Explanation: When the Oakland Symphony transferred the theatre to the City of Oakland in 1975, the arrangement involved a $1 payment and 40 years of free rent for the symphony.

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How is the Paramount Theatre managed today?

Answer: By a nonprofit organization founded by private citizens.

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is currently managed by a nonprofit organization established by private citizens.

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What is the California Historical Landmark number for the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: 884

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is designated as California Historical Landmark No. 884.

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Programming and Cultural Impact

Film star Kay Francis was among the notable attendees at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere.

Answer: True

Explanation: Film star Kay Francis was indeed among the distinguished attendees present at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere.

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Michael Morgan served as the music director for the Oakland Symphony from 1990 until his death in 2021.

Answer: True

Explanation: Michael Morgan held the position of music director for the Oakland Symphony from 1990 until his passing in 2021.

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The Oakland Ballet celebrated the 35th anniversary of Ronn Guidi's 'Nutcracker' at the Paramount in 2007.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 2007, the Oakland Ballet commemorated the 35th anniversary of Ronn Guidi's 'Nutcracker' production at the Paramount Theatre, with Michael Morgan conducting the musical accompaniment.

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Bob Marley & The Wailers performed at the Paramount Theatre in the 1980s.

Answer: False

Explanation: Bob Marley & The Wailers performed at the Paramount Theatre in the 1970s, not the 1980s, according to the provided source material.

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Chris Rock performed three sold-out shows at the Paramount in 2003, generating nearly $450,000.

Answer: True

Explanation: Chris Rock's three sold-out performances at the Paramount in 2003 generated approximately $448,000.

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Jerry Seinfeld's 2004 performances set an attendance record for the theatre since its 1973 renovation.

Answer: True

Explanation: Jerry Seinfeld's 2004 performances established a new attendance record for the Paramount Theatre subsequent to its 1973 renovation.

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Jerry Seinfeld's 2004 shows grossed over $1 million.

Answer: False

Explanation: Jerry Seinfeld's 2004 performances grossed $819,390, which is less than $1 million.

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The musical play 'The Wiz,' starring Grace Jones and Peabo Bryson, was performed at the Paramount in 1997.

Answer: True

Explanation: The musical play 'The Wiz,' featuring performances by Grace Jones and Peabo Bryson, was staged at the Paramount Theatre in 1997.

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Tyler Perry's play 'Madea Goes to Jail' had a successful seven-date run at the Paramount in 2006.

Answer: True

Explanation: Tyler Perry's play 'Madea Goes to Jail' achieved a successful seven-performance engagement at the Paramount Theatre in 2006, playing to capacity audiences.

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Buster Keaton's film 'The General' marked the theatre's return to showing movies in 1987, accompanied by a live orchestra.

Answer: False

Explanation: Buster Keaton's silent film 'The General' signaled the Paramount Theatre's return to screening films in 1987, accompanied by the Wurlitzer organ, not a live orchestra.

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In 2004, the Paramount Theatre screened 'Casablanca' as part of its movie series.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the Paramount Theatre hosted a movie series in 2004, 'Casablanca' was not among the films screened; the series included titles such as 'Harvey' and 'The Graduate'.

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Guests often dress in costume for the Paramount Theatre's Movie Classics series.

Answer: True

Explanation: Participation in the Paramount Theatre's Movie Classics series frequently involves guests donning costumes representative of the films being presented.

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Oakland's Temple Sinai has used the Paramount Theatre for its High Holy Day services since 2001.

Answer: True

Explanation: Since 2001, Oakland's Temple Sinai has utilized the Paramount Theatre to accommodate the substantial attendance for its principal High Holy Day services.

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The premiere of the film 'Moneyball' was hosted at the Paramount in 2011.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre served as the venue for the premiere of the film 'Moneyball' in 2011.

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Abel Gance's 'Napoléon' (1927) was screened with a live score by Carl Davis in 2012.

Answer: True

Explanation: Abel Gance's restored 1927 film 'Napoléon' was screened at the Paramount Theatre in 2012 during the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, accompanied by the Oakland East Bay Symphony.

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The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame presented the Golden Globe Awards at the Paramount Theatre.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame presented the Oscar Micheaux Awards at the Paramount Theatre, not the Golden Globe Awards.

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Maya Angelou participated in a benefit for the St. Paul's Episcopal School at the Paramount in 1995.

Answer: True

Explanation: Maya Angelou participated in a benefit event for the St. Paul's Episcopal School held at the Paramount Theatre in 1995.

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Halle Berry attended the premiere of 'Introducing Dorothy Dandridge' at the Paramount in 1999.

Answer: True

Explanation: Halle Berry attended the premiere of the HBO docudrama 'Introducing Dorothy Dandridge' at the Paramount Theatre in 1999.

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Approximately 1,900 people attended Ron Dellums' mayoral swearing-in ceremony at the Paramount in 2007.

Answer: True

Explanation: Approximately 1,900 individuals attended the public ceremony at the Paramount Theatre in 2007 for the inauguration of Ron Dellums as Oakland's 48th mayor.

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The Paramount Theatre regularly hosts performances spanning genres like R&B, jazz, blues, pop, rock, gospel, and classical music.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre's programming encompasses a diverse range of musical genres, including R&B, jazz, blues, pop, rock, gospel, and classical music.

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The Paramount Theatre exclusively hosts music concerts and ballets.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre hosts a variety of performances beyond music concerts and ballets, including theatrical productions, comedy shows, and film screenings.

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The film 'Dancing Lady,' starring Joan Crawford and Clark Gable, was shown at the Paramount in 1933.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 1933, the Paramount Theatre exhibited the film 'Dancing Lady,' starring Joan Crawford and Clark Gable.

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The 1957 film 'Jailhouse Rock' starring Elvis Presley was shown at the Paramount.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 1957 film 'Jailhouse Rock,' starring Elvis Presley, was exhibited at the Paramount Theatre and drew a substantial audience.

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The Warner Bros. movie 'The Candidate' (1972) used the Paramount Theatre's interior for filming in 1971.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Warner Bros. motion picture 'The Candidate' (1972) utilized the interior of the Paramount Theatre as a principal filming location in 1971.

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Which of the following was NOT listed as a notable attendee at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere?

Answer: Singer Frank Sinatra

Explanation: Singer Frank Sinatra was not listed among the notable attendees at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere, which included figures like Kay Francis and Governor James Rolph.

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Who served as the music director for the Oakland Symphony at the Paramount from 1990 until 2021?

Answer: Michael Morgan

Explanation: Michael Morgan served as the music director for the Oakland Symphony at the Paramount from 1990 until his death in 2021.

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Which famous comedian set an attendance record at the Paramount Theatre in 2004?

Answer: Jerry Seinfeld

Explanation: Jerry Seinfeld set an attendance record at the Paramount Theatre in 2004.

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What Tyler Perry play was performed at the Paramount Theatre in 2006?

Answer: Madea Goes to Jail

Explanation: Tyler Perry's play 'Madea Goes to Jail' was performed at the Paramount Theatre in 2006.

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The screening of which silent film in 1987 marked the Paramount Theatre's return to showing movies?

Answer: The General

Explanation: The screening of Buster Keaton's silent film 'The General' in 1987 marked the Paramount Theatre's return to showing movies.

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Which organization honored screen legends with Oscar Micheaux Awards at events held at the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame

Explanation: The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame honored screen legends with Oscar Micheaux Awards at events held at the Paramount Theatre.

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In 2007, Ron Dellums was sworn in as mayor of which city at the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: Oakland

Explanation: In 2007, Ron Dellums was sworn in as the mayor of Oakland at the Paramount Theatre.

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Which of the following is NOT listed as a type of live performance hosted at the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: Opera

Explanation: Opera is not listed as a type of live performance hosted at the Paramount Theatre; the venue regularly hosts music concerts, ballets, comedy shows, and film screenings.

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Location and Infrastructure

The Paramount Theatre is located on Broadway in Downtown Oakland, California.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Paramount Theatre is situated on Broadway in the downtown district of Oakland, California.

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The official website for the Paramount Theatre is www.paramountoakland.org.

Answer: False

Explanation: The provided information specifies that the official website for the Paramount Theatre is www.paramounttheatre.com, not www.paramountoakland.org.

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The 19th Street BART station provides access to the Paramount Theatre.

Answer: True

Explanation: Access to the Paramount Theatre is facilitated by the 19th Street BART station.

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Public tours of the Paramount Theatre are offered weekly on Sundays.

Answer: False

Explanation: Public tours of the Paramount Theatre are typically offered on the first and third Saturdays of each month, not weekly on Sundays.

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What is the official street address of the Paramount Theatre in Oakland?

Answer: 2025 Broadway, Downtown Oakland, California, USA

Explanation: The official street address of the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, California, is 2025 Broadway.

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Which public transit system provides service to the Paramount Theatre?

Answer: Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)

Explanation: The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system provides service to the Paramount Theatre, with the 19th Street station offering convenient access.

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On which days are public tours of the Paramount Theatre typically offered?

Answer: First and third Saturdays of the month

Explanation: Public tours of the Paramount Theatre are typically offered on the first and third Saturdays of each month.

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