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| photo by Kevin Surbaugh |
Originally the theatre was conceived as a Vaudeville and variety house. Today, it continues to bring a wide array of programming to its stage. The Paramount presents comedy, drama, music, dance, spoken word, children’s programming and films to more than 200,000 Central Texans each year. More than 10,000 of those are children who gain admission for free or at greatly reduced prices because of our youth outreach programs.
The Paramount Theatre plays a huge role in the many communities that make Austin unique. It is home to Austin’s red carpet film premieres and is even part of the SXSW and the Austin Film Festival. It is a vibrant player in the Austin music scene, hosting release parties, booking local talent and presenting touring acts. And through its own quality programming and by serving as a venue for area arts organizations, the Paramount serves as the anchor for the Austin arts community.
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| photo by Kevin Surbaugh |
Originally called the “Majestic”, this theatre was erected in 1915 by businessman Ernest Nalle (1876-1950). Designed by the Chicago architectural firm of Eberson, Fugard, and Knapp, it was constructed under the direction of local architect George Endress. During the 1930s, the theatre was renamed the “Paramount” and was lavishly remodeled. Since its opening, the theatre has been a showcase for traveling vaudeville shows, dramatic and musical stage productions, and motion pictures.
Erected:
1976
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| photo by Kevin Surbaugh |
Offices of the War Department and the Adjutant General
Three double log houses built on this site in 1839 shortly after Austin was selected as the site for the Capital of the Republic of Texas served as the offices for War Department and the Adjutant General. Here Albert Sidney Johnston and Branch Tanner Archer served as secretaries of war.
Erected:
by the Kiwanis Club of Austin, Texas (unknown date)
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| photo by Kevin Surbaugh |
Location:
Near 7th and Congress the Paramount is specifically at 713 Congress Avenue
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Nice description, Kevin. The building has a lot of history. It looks like it has been well looked after.
ReplyDeleteThanks NewsBlaze...it has and it's a stone throw away from the Stephen Austin Hotel.
DeleteThis is a great blog. I am toying with the idea of doing a similar blog about my community. We are also a tourist mecca,though most people come to my community for golf,tennis, or the beach.
ReplyDeleteI am also surprised that the ad below this comment area, is local to me.
Sounds like a great idea to me....as for the ad that is because it is served by Google Adsese, thus uses the readers location to serve the ads.
DeleteWhat a great post and a beautiful building. I love history and historical buildings. I'd heard of the Paramount, but didn't realize it also housed Sam Houston's office and the "War Department."
ReplyDeleteLike Stan, I'm now inspired to look around my own community for gems like this. :-)
Found you via LinkedIn and it's great to see someone passionate about sharing the history of a city that they love.
ReplyDeleteThanks...be sure to check out all the great things to do here in Austin and tell your friends. Together we can make this site the better then any other.
DeleteFound you on Linkedin and I sure love reading about histor local landmarks plus I really need to get. Have you had a chance to attend the thatre often?
ReplyDeleteThanks Crafty. I have not had the opportunity yet. Though my wife and I do wish to when we find a chance.
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