Edmonton theater could be set to open again
Edmonton residents may soon have a new place to go to see theater productions and other live performances after the city’s Paramount building was placed back on the rental market.
The 61-year-old building opened on July 1 in 1952. At the time, it was the largest theater in the city, with enough seating for 1,500 visitors. It was built in high style, and even included marble imported from Italy.
In 1985, it was renovated to provide comfortable seats, although the capacity was reduced.
Unable to compete with the newer multiplex facilities, the Paramount closed in 2003. In 2005, it hosted a performance of the Edmonton opera, but it was largely empty until 2006 when the City Center Church started holding services of its own.
Several arts and performing groups have toured the facility, many noting that with its excellent acoustics, large stage, clear sight lines and lighting system, the theater would make an ideal venue for live performances. It is also thought that there is enough of an artistic community to support regular bookings.
When a business such as this is revitalized, it provides many spin-off benefits to the rest of the community. For example, a print company may be hired to produce decorations, promotional items and other printed materials.
Procura currently owns the building and land, and according to the company’s CEO, there are currently no plans to demolish it in the near future. For the right tenant, this provides an excellent rental opportunity.
The 61-year-old building opened on July 1 in 1952. At the time, it was the largest theater in the city, with enough seating for 1,500 visitors. It was built in high style, and even included marble imported from Italy.
In 1985, it was renovated to provide comfortable seats, although the capacity was reduced.
Unable to compete with the newer multiplex facilities, the Paramount closed in 2003. In 2005, it hosted a performance of the Edmonton opera, but it was largely empty until 2006 when the City Center Church started holding services of its own.
Several arts and performing groups have toured the facility, many noting that with its excellent acoustics, large stage, clear sight lines and lighting system, the theater would make an ideal venue for live performances. It is also thought that there is enough of an artistic community to support regular bookings.
When a business such as this is revitalized, it provides many spin-off benefits to the rest of the community. For example, a print company may be hired to produce decorations, promotional items and other printed materials.
Procura currently owns the building and land, and according to the company’s CEO, there are currently no plans to demolish it in the near future. For the right tenant, this provides an excellent rental opportunity.