Paramount Theatre Abilene

==The Historic Paramount Theatre== The Historic Paramount Theatre is a cultural and architectural gem located in Abilene, Texas. It stands as a significant landmark in the city, renowned for its atmospheric movie palace design and rich history in the entertainment industry. The theatre was designed and built in 1930 by architect David S. Castle, embodying a blend of Spanish and Moorish architectural styles with Pueblo Deco influences. The Paramount Theatre was conceived during an era when attending movies was a grand and immersive experience, and the theatre's main auditorium was designed to evoke the feeling of a Spanish/Moorish courtyard under a night sky, complete with projected clouds and neon-lit stars. ===History=== The Paramount Theatre's story began when Horace O. Wooten, a prominent West Texas grocer, financed its construction to complement the adjacent Wooten Hotel—an 18-story skyscraper that was considered a modern marvel in West Texas at the time. The theatre opened its doors on May 18, 1930, with a sold-out screening of "Safety in Numbers," starring Charles 'Buddy' Rogers and Carole Lombard. The event was a significant moment for the city of Abilene, drawing large crowds eager to witness the grand opening. For many years, the Paramount Theatre operated as a part of the Interstate Theatre chain and was managed by Wally Akin for over four decades. Akin was known for his promotional stunts, such as allowing admission in exchange for milk bottle caps during Uncle Wally’s Birthday Club on Saturday mornings. During World War II, the theatre served as a popular entertainment venue for soldiers stationed at the nearby Camp Barkley. By the mid-1970s, a decline in downtown traffic led to reduced box office revenues, and the Paramount Theatre closed its doors for the first time since its opening. In an effort to save the theatre from demolition, the Paramount Committee, under the Abilene Preservation League, successfully placed the building on the National Register of Historic Places, thereby preserving it. In the years that followed, a generous donor acquired the Paramount Theatre and financed a comprehensive restoration and renovation project. The theatre was authentically restored by Killis Almond, De-Lara Almond Architects, and Restoration Associates from San Antonio, Texas, as well as Parson & Company from Abilene, Texas. The grand re-opening took place on May 21, 1987. ===Present Day=== Today, the Historic Paramount Theatre has expanded its programming to include a diverse range of events such as films, live theatre, concerts, private parties, and special arts events. Equipped with state-of-the-art sound, lighting, projection, and multimedia equipment, it remains one of the premier arts venues in the Southwest. The theatre's capacity, originally 1,500, now accommodates 1,187 patrons. It is a proud member of the League of Historic American Theatres and has received the Texas Award for Historic Preservation. The Paramount Theatre continues to be a beacon of cultural and historical significance in Abilene, celebrating over 89 years of providing entertainment to the community of West Texas.