Step into Paramount Theatre to step back in time and see the theatre’s magnificent art deco architecture and sumptuous 1930s interiors. Wander through the ornate lobby to see gold detailing glinting in the theatre’s adornments and take a seat in the auditorium to experience the theatre’s fantastic stage facilities. Join a tour of this historic building or simply relax with a drink at the bar.
Architect Timothy L. Pflueger designed the stunning art deco Paramount Theatre and it was completed in 1931. At the time, it was the biggest multipurpose theatre on the west coast and provided seating for more than 3,000 patrons. The stage has hosted some of the world’s most famous acts. The theatre’s list of entertainers includes musicians Bruce Springsteen and Bob Marley and comedians Bill Cosby and Chris Rock. The Oakland East Bay Symphony Orchestra regularly performs classical pieces on the Paramount Theatre stage and helped form its reputation as one of California’s finest venues.
Dress for a splendid night out and watch the ballet. This theatre is home to the Oakland Ballet Company and features wonderful performances in May and December. A week later and something completely different will likely hit the stage: rock concerts, stand-up comedy shows, performances by the renowned Oakland East Bay Symphony Orchestra and classic Hollywood films are just some of the diverse acts that grace the Paramount Theatre.
Regardless of the show you choose to see, the Paramount Theatre’s architecture and interiors are definitely worth checking out. Admire the grand lobby and its glittering “canopy of light” on the ceiling. Arrive early to enjoy a drink at the bar and discover the theatre’s other areas, including the ornate men’s and women’s smoking rooms. Take a tour and learn about the building’s ornamentation and history on the mornings of the first and third Saturdays in the month, except on holiday weekends. Tours run for approximately 2 hours and a small fee applies for attendance.
The Paramount Theatre is located in downtown Oakland’s exciting Broadway strip. The city’s convenient public transport systems all have stops nearby.
