Paramount Theatre Denver

==Paramount Theatre== The '''Paramount Theatre''' is a historic entertainment venue located in Denver, Colorado. Built in 1930 by renowned architect Temple Buell for Publix Theatres, the Paramount Theatre is a prime example of Zig Zag Art Deco design and has been a cornerstone of Denver's cultural landscape for nearly a century. ===History=== The Paramount Theatre was constructed during an era when movie houses were the central hubs of social and cultural activity in America. It opened its doors on August 29, 1930, with the premiere of "Let's Go Native," drawing a crowd of 20,000 people, a turnout rivaling that of Hollywood premieres at the time. The theatre's grandeur and the public's fascination with its splendor quickly cemented its status as the leading movie house in Denver. Temple Buell, the architect responsible for several significant buildings in the region and a proponent of the western style of architecture, considered the Paramount Theatre his finest work. The theatre's façade features pre-cast concrete blocks with glazed terra cotta moldings, creating a striking visual contrast with the surrounding stone buildings. Decorative terra cotta elements lend an illusion of height to the three-story structure, while ornate details such as rosettes, leaves, feathers, and fiddle-head ferns adorn the exterior. The interior of the Paramount Theatre is a testament to the Art Deco movement, characterized by its Zig Zag design and ornamental flourishes. Luxuries of the golden age of film are evident throughout, including an opulent lobby, indirect lighting, a vaulted sunburst ceiling, cut glass chandeliers, Egyptian lights, Italian marble, and a neon marquee. The auditorium's decor features false gold leafing and copper bronzing, framing silk murals by artist Vincent Mondo that depict classic Commedia Dell'arte figures. Originally designed to accompany silent movies, the Paramount houses a unique Wurlitzer twin-console organ, one of only two remaining in the United States, the other being in New York City's Radio City Music Hall. The organ boasts over 1,600 pipes capable of producing a range of orchestral and percussion sounds, as well as special effects. ===Preservation and Current Use=== In recognition of its architectural and cultural significance, the Paramount Theatre was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and declared a historic landmark by the City of Denver in 1988. Today, the theatre continues to serve as a vibrant, multi-event facility. Denver Metro residents and visitors enjoy a diverse array of entertainment options, including rock concerts, dance performances, comedy shows, lectures, movies, and Wurlitzer organ performances. The Paramount Theatre remains a beloved institution in Denver's entertainment scene, preserving its original dignity and glamour while adapting to the evolving demands of modern audiences.