What is the official address of the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, California?

The Paramount Theatre is located at 2025 Broadway in Downtown Oakland, California, USA.

What is the seating capacity of the Paramount Theatre?

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

When was the Paramount Theatre originally opened?

The Paramount Theatre first opened its doors in 1931.

In what year was the Paramount Theatre renovated?

The Paramount Theatre underwent a renovation in 1973.

What is the official website for the Paramount Theatre?

The official website for the Paramount Theatre is www.paramounttheatre.com.

What architectural style is the Paramount Theatre primarily known for?

The Paramount Theatre is primarily known for its Art Deco architectural style, inspired by the 1925 Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes.

What public transit options serve the Paramount Theatre?

The Paramount Theatre is accessible via the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, specifically the 19th Street station, which serves the Orange, Red, and Yellow lines.

Who is the current owner of the Paramount Theatre?

The Paramount Theatre is owned by the City of Oakland and operates as a nonprofit entity.

What designations does the Paramount Theatre hold regarding its historical significance?

The Paramount Theatre is recognized as a U.S. National Register of Historic Places site, a U.S. National Historic Landmark, California Historical Landmark No. 884, and Oakland Designated Landmark No. 9.

What was the original purpose for which the Paramount Theatre was built?

The Paramount Theatre was originally constructed as a movie palace during the late 1920s, coinciding with the rise of the motion picture industry.

Which corporation commissioned the Paramount Theatre, and who was its primary architect?

The Paramount Theatre was commissioned by Adolph Zukor's Paramount Publix Corporation, and its design was led by San Francisco architect Timothy L. Pflueger.

What was the construction cost of the Paramount Theatre in 1931?

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

What event inspired the Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre?

The Art Deco design of the Paramount Theatre was inspired by the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes held in Paris.

What type of organ was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931, and what was its cost?

A Wurlitzer Publix I organ, a four-manual, twenty-rank model, was installed in the Paramount Theatre in 1931 at a cost of $20,000.

Who were some of the notable attendees at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere on December 16, 1931?

Notable attendees at the Paramount Theatre's gala premiere included film star Kay Francis, actors Conway Tearle, Charles D. Brown, Marjorie Gateson, and William Boyd, as well as California Governor James Rolph and Oakland Mayor Fred N. Morcom.

What were the ticket prices for the premiere of the Paramount Theatre?

Tickets for the Paramount Theatre's premiere were priced at sixty cents for balcony seats and eighty-five cents for orchestra seats.

What was included in the program for the Paramount Theatre's opening night on December 16, 1931?

The opening night program featured a Fox Movietone News newsreel, the Silly Symphony cartoon 'The Spider and the Fly,' performances by the Paramount's 16-piece house orchestra led by Lew Kosloff, and a stage show titled 'Slavique Idea' by Fanchon & Marco.

Why did the Paramount Theatre initially close in June 1932, less than a year after opening?

The Paramount Theatre closed in June 1932 because it was unable to meet its operating expenses, which exceeded $27,000 per week, and faced competition from other theaters like the Fox Oakland Theater.

How did the Paramount Theatre's management attempt to reduce expenses upon its reopening in May 1933?

Upon reopening in May 1933, the Paramount Theatre's management aimed to reduce expenses by operating without a stage show or orchestra and by unscrewing light bulbs to lower energy costs.

What role did the Paramount Theatre play for servicemen during World War II?

During World War II, the Paramount Theatre served as a popular gathering place for servicemen, many of whom were departing from or arriving at the nearby Port of Oakland.

What changes were made to the Paramount Theatre in the 1950s to adapt to changing entertainment trends?

In the 1950s, popcorn machines and candy counters were installed at the Paramount Theatre, and the incandescent lighting in the lobby was replaced with red and blue neon tubing.

What event led to the Paramount Theatre's second closure on September 15, 1970?

The Paramount Theatre closed for a second time on September 15, 1970, due to its inability to compete with smaller suburban movie theaters.

Which film, featuring The Beatles, was the last to be shown at the Paramount Theatre before its second closure in 1970?

The last film shown at the Paramount Theatre before its second closure was the 1970 documentary 'Let It Be,' featuring The Beatles.

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

The Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the Paramount Theatre for $1 million in October 1972. Half of this amount was donated by the seller, National General Theaters, with the remainder coming from private donors.

What significant renovations were undertaken after the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the Paramount Theatre in 1972?

Following the purchase, the Paramount Theatre underwent renovations that included removing popcorn and candy counters, installing new, wider seats with increased legroom, laying a replica of the original carpet, and adding two bars and a new box office.

When did the Paramount Theatre reopen after its restoration in the 1970s?

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

What financial challenges did the Oakland Symphony face with the Paramount Theatre, leading to its transfer to the City of Oakland?

Despite successful subscription sales, the Paramount Theatre proved to be a financial burden for the Oakland Symphony. The symphony financed renovation costs with a loan and eventually transferred the theatre to the City of Oakland in 1975 for $1, in exchange for 40 years of free rent.

How is the Paramount Theatre currently managed?

The Paramount Theatre is currently managed by a nonprofit organization established by a group of seven private citizens who approached city officials with the idea after the Oakland Symphony transferred ownership.

How often are public tours of the Paramount Theatre offered?

Public tours of the Paramount Theatre are typically offered on the first and third Saturdays of each month, excluding holidays and holiday weekends.

On what date was the Paramount Theatre officially added to the National Register of Historic Places?

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

When was the Paramount Theatre designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark?

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

What is the California Historical Landmark number assigned to the Paramount Theatre?

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

What is the Oakland Designated Landmark number for the Paramount Theatre?

The Paramount Theatre holds Oakland Designated Landmark No. 9.

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

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

What notable event did the Oakland Ballet celebrate at the Paramount Theatre in December 2007?

In December 2007, the Oakland Ballet celebrated the 35th anniversary of Ronn Guidi's 'Nutcracker' at the Paramount Theatre, with Michael Morgan conducting the music.

Can you name three prominent musical artists who performed at the Paramount Theatre in the 1970s?

Prominent musical artists who performed at the Paramount Theatre in the 1970s include Bob Marley & The Wailers, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, and Patti LaBelle.

Which famous comedian performed multiple sold-out shows at the Paramount Theatre in 2003, and what was the attendance and gross revenue for these shows?

Chris Rock performed three sold-out shows at the Paramount Theatre in 2003, drawing a total attendance of 8,883 and generating a gross revenue of $448,000.

What record did Jerry Seinfeld's 2004 performances set at the Paramount Theatre in terms of attendance?

Jerry Seinfeld's four sold-out performances in 2004 set a record for attendance at the Paramount Theatre since its 1973 renovation, with 12,001 patrons attending.

What was the gross revenue from Jerry Seinfeld's four sold-out performances in 2004 at the Paramount Theatre?

Jerry Seinfeld's four sold-out performances in 2004 at the Paramount Theatre grossed $819,390.

Which musical play, starring Grace Jones and Peabo Bryson, was performed at the Paramount Theatre in 1997?

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

What Tyler Perry play played to a packed seven-date stint at the Paramount Theatre in 2006?

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

What classic silent film, accompanied by a Wurlitzer organ, marked the Paramount Theatre's return to showing movies in 1987?

Buster Keaton's 1926 silent film 'The General,' accompanied by the Wurlitzer organ, marked the Paramount Theatre's return to showing movies in 1987.

Which classic Hollywood films were screened at the Paramount Theatre in 2004 as part of its movie series?

In 2004, the Paramount Theatre screened several classic films, including 'Harvey' (1950), 'Viva Las Vegas' (1964), 'The Graduate' (1967), and 'The Bad and the Beautiful' (1952).

How do guests often participate in the Paramount Theatre's Movie Classics series?

Guests often actively participate in the Paramount Theatre's Movie Classics series by dressing up in costumes that represent characters from the films being shown.

Since 2001, which religious organization has used the Paramount Theatre for its High Holy Day services?

Since 2001, Oakland's Temple Sinai has utilized the Paramount Theatre to accommodate the large number of attendees for its main High Holy Day services.

Which film's premiere was hosted at the Paramount Theatre in 2011, attended by cast members and Oakland Athletics players?

The Paramount Theatre hosted the premiere of the 2011 film 'Moneyball,' which was attended by the cast, Oakland Athletics players, and executives.

What significant film restoration project was screened at the Paramount Theatre in 2012, accompanied by a live orchestra?

Abel Gance's restored film 'Napoléon' (1927) was screened at the Paramount Theatre in 2012 as part of the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, accompanied by the Oakland East Bay Symphony.

Who composed the score for Abel Gance's 'Napoléon' as performed with the Oakland East Bay Symphony at the Paramount in 2012?

The score for Abel Gance's 'Napoléon,' performed with the Oakland East Bay Symphony at the Paramount in 2012, was led by score arranger Carl Davis.

Which organization honored screen legends like Hattie McDaniel and Billy Dee Williams with Oscar Micheaux Awards at events held at the Paramount Theatre?

The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame, founded in 1973, held events at the Paramount Theatre to honor screen legends and present the Oscar Micheaux Awards.

In 1995, Maya Angelou participated in a benefit at the Paramount for which institution?

In 1995, Maya Angelou read from her work at a benefit held at the Paramount Theatre for the St. Paul's Episcopal School.

In 1999, Halle Berry attended the premiere of which HBO docudrama at the Paramount Theatre?

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

Paramount Theatre Oakland California Wiki: Oakland's Paramount: An Art Deco Masterpiece

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A Storied History

Birth of a Movie Palace

Constructed during the golden age of cinema, the Paramount Theatre opened its doors on December 16, 1931. Designed by renowned architect Timothy L. Pflueger, it was the largest theatre on the West Coast at the time, seating 3,476 patrons. Its opulent Art Deco design, inspired by the 1925 Paris Exposition, aimed to provide an immersive cinematic experience.

Financial Challenges

Despite its grandeur, the theatre faced early financial difficulties, closing shortly after its opening due to high operating costs. It reopened under new management, focusing on film exhibition and cost-saving measures. Throughout the mid-20th century, it adapted to changing entertainment trends, including the introduction of CinemaScope and hosting popular music acts.

Revival and Restoration

After a second closure in 1970, the Paramount faced an uncertain future. In 1972, the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the building, initiating a significant restoration. This effort aimed to return the theatre to its original 1931 splendor, installing new seating, restoring carpets, and adding amenities. It reopened in 1973, becoming the home for the Oakland Symphony and Oakland Ballet.

Art Deco Splendor

Pflueger's Vision

Timothy L. Pflueger, a leading San Francisco architect, masterfully blended Art Deco elements with influences from Streamline Moderne. The exterior features striking geometric patterns and vertical lines, while the interior boasts elaborate detailing, including the iconic "Fountain of Light" in the grand lobby, stylized lounges, and a unique, patented ceiling grid design in the auditorium.

Interior Details

The theatre's interior is a testament to Art Deco craftsmanship. Key features include:

A four-story Grand Lobby with ornate gold ornamentation.
Stylized lounges on the basement and mezzanine levels.
Intricate mosaic details on the facade.
The innovative, patented ceiling grid designed by Pflueger.

The theatre's design emphasizes verticality and geometric motifs characteristic of the Art Deco style. The use of rich materials and dramatic lighting creates a luxurious atmosphere. The auditorium's ceiling, a notable feature, incorporates Pflueger's patented grid system, contributing to its unique acoustics and aesthetic.

Wurlitzer Organ

The Paramount originally housed a magnificent four-manual, twenty-rank Wurlitzer organ, known as the Publix I (Opus 2164). This instrument was integral to the theatre's early presentations, accompanying films and stage shows, adding another layer of auditory and visual spectacle for audiences.

A Hub of Performance

Symphony and Ballet

The Paramount Theatre serves as the principal venue for the Oakland Symphony and the Oakland Ballet. These resident companies utilize the theatre's acoustics and stage facilities for their seasons, presenting a diverse range of classical and contemporary performances.

Diverse Concerts

Since its revival, the Paramount has hosted an extensive list of renowned musical artists across genres including R&B, jazz, blues, pop, rock, and gospel. Legendary performers like Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, James Brown, and Diana Ross have graced its stage, cementing its status as a premier concert venue.

The theatre has a rich history of hosting major musical acts. From the 1970s onwards, artists such as Boz Scaggs, Patti LaBelle, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, Vladimir Horowitz, and many others have performed here. The lists of performers highlight the venue's enduring appeal across decades and musical styles.

Comedy and Film

Beyond music, the Paramount is a celebrated venue for stand-up comedy, hosting performances by icons like Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and George Lopez. It also continues its tradition as a movie palace, screening classic films and hosting premieres, often with attendees embracing the glamour of the era.

Guided Exploration

Step Back in Time

Public tours of the Paramount Theatre are offered on the first and third Saturdays of each month (excluding holidays). These tours provide an intimate look at the theatre's architectural details, historical significance, and the stories behind its enduring legacy.

Walking through the Paramount is described as a journey back to Old Hollywood, with its gilded lobbies, ornate staircases, and atmospheric lighting. The tours are managed by the non-profit organization that operates the theatre on behalf of the City of Oakland.

Enduring Landmark

Historic Designations

The Paramount Theatre's architectural and cultural importance is recognized through multiple designations:

U.S. National Register of Historic Places (NRHP)
U.S. National Historic Landmark (NHL)
California Registered Historical Landmark
Oakland Designated Landmark

These honors underscore its significance as a preserved piece of American architectural and cultural history.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 2025 Broadway in Downtown Oakland, the theatre is easily accessible via public transit, notably the 19th Street BART station. Its central location makes it a convenient destination for cultural events in the Bay Area.

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References

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A full list of references for this article are available at the Paramount Theatre (Oakland, California) Wikipedia page

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This is not an official guide. Information regarding schedules, events, or specific historical details should be verified with the official Paramount Theatre or relevant organizations. The creators are not responsible for any inaccuracies or omissions.

Oakland's Paramount Theatre

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied History ⏳

🎬 Birth of a Movie Palace

📉 Financial Challenges

🔄 Revival and Restoration

Art Deco Splendor ✨

📐 Pflueger's Vision

🌟 Interior Details

🎶 Wurlitzer Organ

A Hub of Performance 🎤

🎻 Symphony and Ballet

⭐ Diverse Concerts

😂 Comedy and Film

Guided Exploration 🚶

🏛️ Step Back in Time

Enduring Landmark 🏆

📜 Historic Designations

📍 Location and Accessibility

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied History

Birth of a Movie Palace

Financial Challenges

Revival and Restoration

Art Deco Splendor

Pflueger's Vision

Interior Details

Wurlitzer Organ

A Hub of Performance

Symphony and Ballet

Diverse Concerts

Comedy and Film

Guided Exploration

Step Back in Time

Enduring Landmark

Historic Designations

Location and Accessibility

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Notice

Disclaimer