Historic theater will once again show movies

The rumors are true. Movies are coming back to the Historic Paramount Theatre.

The Paramount Theatre opened on Sept. 14, 1929, as a first-run movie theatre with “Fast Company.” Being a first-run theater meant they could show movies as soon as they were available for public consumption.

As Austin residents who lived here before 1975 know, it was one of the hottest destinations for entertainment in Austin until it closed due to the popularity of television and mall theatres.

Time and time again, current Paramount patrons share their fond memories of watching movies at the Paramount. Many remember the fun of going to the Paramount every Saturday to watch movies all day long with friends. Some remember the thrill of sneaking in without paying for a ticket, while others lovingly reminisce about their first date or first kiss at the Paramount.

We want to create new memories (with the exception of the sneaking-in part) for the next generation of Austin residents. Our movies will be second-run, meaning it will be the second time they will appear at a theatre. We decided to begin this new movie series with the holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 22.

Tickets will be only $5, just slightly more expensive than in 1929 when movie tickets were 10 cents for children and 50 cents for adults. They can be purchased in advance or at the door.

Beginning in January, we will host movies once a month, typically on the second weekend.

We are still developing the schedule with plans to announce it at the end of the month.

Please feel free to email director@paramounttheatre.org with suggestions for movies you would like to see at the Paramount in 2013.