Paramount Theatre, Austin, Texas
historic place
The Paramount Theatre, a historic place in Austin, Texas, first opened on October 11, 1915, at 713 Congress Avenue. It was originally known as the Majestic Theatre. Businessman Ernest Nalle built the venue, and Chicago architect John Eberson designed it in the Neoclassical Revival style. The theatre initially served as a vaudeville house, hosting performers like the Marx Brothers and Harry Houdini. In 1930, Karl Hoblitzelle purchased the Majestic and renamed it the Paramount Theatre. It then began showing films, alongside live performances. During the 1940s, the Paramount promoted war bonds, selling $8.4 million worth. The Texas Historical Commission designated it a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1976, and a state historical marker was dedicated on May 6, 1977. Restoration efforts began in the mid-1970s, allowing the theatre to host major touring companies again. Located in Travis County, the Paramount Theatre continues to operate as a significant cultural venue today.