The Paramount Theatre celebrated its 110 anniversary this year, while the State Theatre has been around for 90 years.
AUSTIN, Texas — Two historic theatres in Austin are set to be restored and preserved.
The Paramount Theatre and State Theatre in Downtown Austin will soon undergo renovations as part of the Austin Theatre Alliance’s “Shine On” campaign.
The Austin Theatre Alliance said it has set a fundraising goal of $65 million for the revitalization effort. The Paramount Theatre celebrated its 110 anniversary this year, while the State Theatre has been around for 90 years.
The renovations on the Paramount Theatre would include:
- Comprehensive restoration of historic elements, including paint work, plaster molding, chandeliers and more
- Updated infrastructure and more energy-efficient systems
- All 1,200 seats replaced with custom-designed, modern-yet-period-appropriate seating
- Enhanced aisle lighting, improved ADA access and new elevator capabilities
- Expanded restroom and concession facilities
- Installation of modern wiring, sound and lighting, integrated behind the theatre’s historic finishes
- Implementation of plans from early 1900s blueprints, including installing a long-imagined ballroom that was never completed, as well as the creation of a lounge for community events, happy hours and special gatherings
- The installation of a third-floor lounge, which will be known as the JP’s Peace, Love, and Happiness Lounge to honor philanthropists John Paul & Eloise DeJoria
Renovations on the State Theatre would include:
- A full interior transformation inspired by the theaters art deco facade
- Refreshing the theatre’s historic facade and marquee
- Installation of a new shared elevator, which will serve both theatres and provide full ADA accessibility
- Increasing the current 300-seat capacity, implementing telescopic seating that will allow 435 traditional seats, cabaret styling seating or up to a 500-person capacity with standing configurations
- Flexible capacity to make it usable for local arts nonprofits, who can rent the theatre at a reduced rate
- Implementation of a new basement speakeasy to a rooftop deck for the cool weather months and four concession areas
- Tripled restroom capacity
Full restoration on the Paramount Theatre is scheduled to begin in June 2026, while work on the State Theatre will begin in summer 2027.
RENDERINGS: Paramount, State theatres to undergo restoration projects
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