Austin, January 15, 2026
Austin’s Paramount Theatre, a cultural landmark since 1915, is set to undergo a $65 million restoration starting in June 2026. This project aims to preserve its historic essence while modernizing facilities, including seating and infrastructure upgrades. With overwhelming community support through the ‘Shine On’ campaign, which has already raised $27 million, the renovation promises to enhance the theatre’s role in Austin’s vibrant arts scene for generations to come.
Austin’s Paramount Theatre: A Century of Resilience and Renewal
Austin, Texas – The Paramount Theatre, a cornerstone of Austin’s cultural landscape since 1915, is set to undergo a significant restoration beginning in June 2026. This $65 million project aims to preserve the historic venue while enhancing its facilities for future generations.
Upcoming Restoration Plans
The restoration will include:
- Seating Replacement: All 1,200 seats will be replaced with custom-designed, modern-yet-period-appropriate seating.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: The project will include updated and more energy-efficient systems.
- Interior Restoration: Comprehensive restoration of historic elements, including paint work, plaster molding, chandeliers, and more.
- Accessibility Improvements: Enhanced aisle lighting and improved ADA access and new elevator capabilities.
- Expanded Amenities: Expanded restroom and concession facilities.
- New Lounge Creation: The creation of a lounge for events envisioned in the original blueprints.
The Paramount Theatre will close in June 2026 for at least eight months while the renovations take place. Work on the State Theatre is expected to follow and will take 13-16 months to complete.
Historical Significance
Opened in 1915, the Paramount Theatre has been a vital part of Austin’s entertainment scene for over a century. It hosts more than 500 events annually, including the Moontower Comedy Festival each spring, a Summer Classic Film Series, and premieres during the Austin Film Festival and South by Southwest.
Community Support and Funding
The Austin Theatre Alliance, the nonprofit operating the Paramount and State Theatres, has launched the “Shine On” campaign to fund the restoration. The campaign has already raised $27 million, with a total goal of $65 million—$55 million for construction and $10 million for an endowment.
Impact on the Community
Over the past year, the Paramount Theatre welcomed more than 290,000 guests, representing a $25 million economic impact for the downtown area.
Looking Ahead
The restoration of the Paramount Theatre is a testament to Austin’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while adapting to the needs of future generations. The project aims to ensure that the theatre continues to serve as a vibrant hub for arts and entertainment in the heart of downtown Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the Paramount Theatre begin its restoration?
The restoration is set to begin in June 2026, with the theatre closing for at least eight months during the renovations.
What is the total cost of the restoration project?
The total cost of the restoration project is $65 million, with $55 million allocated for construction and $10 million for an endowment.
How can the community support the restoration efforts?
The community can support the restoration efforts by contributing to the “Shine On” campaign, which is accepting donations at all levels.
What events will be affected by the theatre’s closure?
The theatre’s closure will affect major events such as the Austin Film Festival’s 2026 dates and SXSW 2027. However, efforts are being made to accommodate these events at other venues.
What is the expected completion date for the restoration?
The restoration of the Paramount Theatre is expected to be completed by March 2027.
Key Features of the Restoration Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating Replacement | All 1,200 seats will be replaced with custom-designed, modern-yet-period-appropriate seating. |
| Infrastructure Upgrades | Updated and more energy-efficient systems will be installed. |
| Interior Restoration | Comprehensive restoration of historic elements, including paint work, plaster molding, chandeliers, and more. |
| Accessibility Improvements | Enhanced aisle lighting and improved ADA access and new elevator capabilities. |
| Expanded Amenities | Expanded restroom and concession facilities. |
| New Lounge Creation | The creation of a lounge for events envisioned in the original blueprints. |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
