FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press contacts: Jay Kelly, LCWA Jim Jarvis, Paramount Theatre [email protected] or 312.565.4623 [email protected] or 630.723.2474

PARAMOUNT THEATRE ANNOUNCES FULL 2015-16 SEASON

Donny & Marie, Jay Leno, Peter Cetera, Frank Caliendo, Jack Hanna and Josh Turner just a few of the major acts to play the Paramount next season

AURORA, IL, June 1, 2015 – Paramount Theatre President and CEO Tim Rater announced today another exciting, jam-packed schedule of major stars, live music acts, top comedy stars and family performances guaranteed to keep the Paramount filled with capacity crowds year-round in 2015-16.

Already announced, and straight from Vegas, is the return of Donny & Marie, Aug. 12-16, back after their smash hit run last August at the Paramount. Likewise, Paramount’s 2015-16 Broadway musical series was unveiled last March, including Oklahoma! (Sept. 16-Oct. 18, 2015), A Christmas Story – The Musical (Nov. 25, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016), Hairspray – The Broadway Musical (Jan. 20-Feb. 21, 2016) and West Side Story (Mar. 16-Apr. 24, 2016). That attractive line- up has already spurred more than 25,000 subscribers for Paramount’s Buy Two, Get Two offer, or four Broadway-caliber musicals for a little as $82.

Today, Rater unveiled the balance of the Paramount’s 2015-16 schedule, with big names including Jay Leno, Peter Cetera, Frank Caliendo, Terry Fator, Under the Streetlamp, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, Jack Hanna, Josh Turner, The Second City, STOMP and Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack, just to name a few, all performing live on the beautiful Paramount stage in the heart of downtown Aurora.

Soon after Donny & Marie bring their Vegas show back to Aurora, the Paramount’s 84th season officially launches Friday, August 21 with the annual Season Kick Off-Party that raises money for a great cause - kids. For just $15, guests will sample phenomenal food from around the Aurora area, check out incredible silent auction prizes and enjoy a fully-stocked cash bar, all in the newly- renovated Meyer Ballroom just across the street from the Paramount. -more-

Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 2 of 10

Following the party is the return of the Happy Together Tour at 8 p.m., with a line-up that literally brings classic radio back to life with The Grassroots, Mark Lindsay from Paul Revere & The Raiders, Chicago’s very own The Buckinghams, The Cowsills, The Association, and of course, Flo & Eddie singing that classic Turtles hit the tour is named after: Happy Together.

Paramount’s 2015-16 season continues (in chronological order) with Chicago frontman and solo vocalist Peter Cetera (Sept. 4), The Duke Ellington Orchestra (September 5), Oklahoma! (Sept. 16-Oct. 18), Chicago’s own Jersey Boys Under The Streetlamp (Oct. 25), Jay Leno with special musical guest Emily West (Oct. 30), Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl (Oct. 31), Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild Live! (Nov. 1), star of A&E’s hit Paranormal State The Happy Medium – Kim Russo (Nov. 6), comedian and impersonator Frank Caliendo (Nov. 7), Peter & Paul of the legendary folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary (Nov. 8), country music hunk Josh Turner (Nov. 12), comedian and ventriloquist Terry Fator (Nov. 13), Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis (Nov. 14), A Christmas Story – The Musical (Nov. 25, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016), The Second City’s Holidazed and Confused Revue (Dec. 4-20, in Paramount’s Copley Theatre), Hairspray – The Broadway Musical (Jan. 20-Feb. 21, 2016), STOMP (Feb. 26 & 27), I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues (A Salute to Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland and Patsy Cline) (Feb 28), Queen cover geniuses God Save the Queen (Mar. 5), West Side Story (Mar. 16-Apr. 24) and Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack Show (May 21).

Also back in 2015-16, Paramount’s popular $1 Classic Movie Monday series, presenting everyone’s favorite flicks in one of Chicago’s top former movie palaces for just $1, and a line-up of children’s matinees designed to entertain while they educate: The Math Maniac Show (Nov. 2), Lily’s Crossing (Feb. 25), Freedom Train (Mar. 22) and Charlotte’s Web (Apr. 27).

“The return of Donny & Marie for their second consecutive summer run at Paramount is proof - these artists love performing on our beautiful stage for our enthusiastic audiences,” said Tim Rater, President and CEO of Paramount Theatre. “We host the biggest stars, best comedians, top music acts and fantastic family shows, all at an affordable price. Between the presented shows and our Broadway series, we’ll host nearly 300 performances this season for an estimated audience of more than 300,000 patrons.”

Current Paramount subscribers get first dibs on tickets and the best seats during the exclusive subscriber pre-sale starting Friday, June 5 at 10 a.m., through Thursday, June 18. Paramount’s General Season goes on sale to the general public Friday, June 26 at 10 a.m. If you are not already a subscriber, you can become one today by purchasing a minimum of four shows (General Season and/or Broadway). To subscribe or to purchase single tickets, visit ParamountAurora.com, call the box office at 630-896-6666 or stop by in person at the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora.

In addition to the lowest major musical theater subscription prices anywhere in Illinois, Broadway Series subscriber benefits have never been better. Purchase four or more shows, and you automatically reap many benefits as a season subscriber, including the best seats, free ticket exchange privileges, 10% discounts on additional shows at the Paramount, first notice of added shows and special subscriber events and exclusive access to our Broadway Series Premium Guest Experience (including pre-show hors d’oeuvres, open bar and private intermission bar service.) -more- Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 3 of 10

Following are details about Paramount’s 2015-2016 season, in chronological order:

Donny & Marie August 12-16 Wednesday, August 12 at 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, August 13 at 1:30 p.m.; Friday, August 14 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, August 16 at 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. No shows Saturday, August 15 Tickets: $69, $89, $99 Less than a year after their sold out run at Aurora’s Paramount Theatre, America’s favorite brother/sister duo Donny & Marie are returning for another exclusive Chicago-area engagement at the Paramount. From recording artists to television stars to Vegas headliners, Donny & Marie are the epitome of entertainment superstars. Just ask any of the thousands of people who saw them light up the Paramount last summer. Now this iconic duo is coming back, and they’re bringing the songs, the choreography and, of course, the charm.

2015-16 Season Kick-Off Party and Fundraiser Friday, August 21, 5-7 p.m. Tickets: $15 Paramount kicks off its 2015-16 season with a party that raises money for a great cause - kids. For just $15, you’ll sample phenomenal food from around the Aurora area, check out incredible silent auction prizes and enjoy a fully-stocked cash bar, all in the newly-renovated Meyer Ballroom just across the street from the Paramount.

Happy Together Tour 2015 Friday, August 21, 8 p.m. Tickets: $59.50 Right after the Season Kick-Off Party, The Happy Together Tour brings classic radio back to life with live performances by legendary rockers The Grassroots, Mark Lindsay from Paul Revere & The Raiders, Chicago’s very own The Buckinghams, The Cowsills, The Association and Flo & Eddie from The Turtles.

Peter Cetera Friday, September 4, 8 p.m. Tickets: $65 Chicago frontman and solo star Peter Cetera defines an entire era of American rock music. Penning and singing lead vocals on Chicago’s first No. 1 single “If You Leave Me Now,” Cetera propelled the group into the worldwide spotlight. His power ballads like “Baby, What a Big Surprise” and ”Hard to Say I’m Sorry” drove Chicago to become one of the best-selling American rock bands of all time.

The Duke Ellington Orchestra Saturday, September 5, 7 p.m. Tickets: $35, $40, $45 Over the course of 50 years, the great Duke Ellington led a world-renowned jazz orchestra, wrote thousands of compositions and changed the American musical landscape forever. Even decades after his death, Duke’s Orchestra still honors his incredible legacy by performing his cool musical masterpieces for audiences around the world. -more- Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 4 of 10

Oklahoma! Music by Richard Rodgers Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Based on the play “Green Grow the Lilacs” by Lynn Riggs Original Dances by Agnes de Mille Directed by Paramount Artistic Director Jim Corti September 16-October 18, 2015 Press opening Saturday, September 19, 8 p.m. Suggested rating: PG Tickets: $41-$56 (Buy a season subscription and the most you’ll pay is $28 per show) Oklahoma! is the show that set the standard for all musicals by incorporating music, lyrics and dance into a well-crafted, serious story. It’s also the debut collaboration of one of the most prolific writing teams in American theater history – Rodgers and Hammerstein. Set in the turn of the century Oklahoma Territory, tensions are mounting between the local farmers and cowboys over the use of land. In the midst of it all is the rugged cowboy Curly who’s fallen for the strong-headed farm girl, Laurey. Despite their fiery spirits and at times tumultuous relationship, the two are destined to start a new life together in the soon-to-be state called Oklahoma!

Nominated for seven Tony Awards and winner of a Pulitzer Prize, Oklahoma! sets the standard for the 2015-16 Paramount Broadway season. It’s filled with some of the most recognized songs in theater including “Beautiful Morning,” “Surrey with the Fringe,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” and of course, the resounding “Ok-la-hom-a,” all performed by the Paramount’s full-orchestra. The Broadway Series is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, the Dunham Fund, Rush Copley, Gerald Kia, ComEd and PACE (Paramount Arts Centre Endowment).

Note: There will be two certified sign interpreters translating all dialogue and lyrics into American Sign Language on October 15, 2015 at 7 p.m.

Under The Streetlamp Sunday, October 25, 3 p.m. Tickets: $49, $59 The former cast mates from Chicago’s very own Jersey Boys are headed back to Aurora, and Michael x2, Chris and Shonn are bringing their stunning voices, their slick dance moves and their electrifying charm with them. Under The Streetlamp sells out the Paramount every season, and with their unforgettable show featuring your favorite Doo-Wop, Motown and old time rock-n-roll tunes (and some surprises, too), this year’s no different.

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Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 5 of 10

Jay Leno with special guest Emily West Friday, October 30, 8 p.m. Tickets: $89, $99, $109 Comedy and talk show legend Jay Leno is headed to Aurora for one-night-only, and he’s bringing Paramount audiences along for one of the funniest nights of the season. From performing 300 nights a year in comedy clubs to dominating the late night circuit as NBC-TV’s Tonight Show host for over 17 years, Jay’s Emmy-winning humor has had audiences around the world laughing for decades and earned him a spot in the Television Hall of Fame. Plus, America’s Got Talent finalist, CMA nominee and recording artist Emily West is kicking off this awesome night with her amazing songs. Rated PG-13. Sponsored by Nicor Gas and CBK Global Enterprises.

Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl Saturday, October 31, 7 p.m. Tickets: $25 & $28 adult, $18 & $20 children 12 & under It’s a tradition in the Fox Valley to honor the area’s rich Mexican culture with Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl. Join this celebration of traditional Mexican folklorico with colorful costumes, wonderful music and electrifying, elegant and beautiful choreography. Feel your spirits rise and eyes light up as this celebrated group of artists share an important piece of their wonderful culture.

Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild Live! Sunday, November 1, 3 p.m. Tickets: $35 adult, $20 children 12 and under Pre-show lunch with Jack Hanna: 1 p.m., $15 per person Bring the family for a wild afternoon with “Jungle” Jack Hanna and his animal pals. From lions to lemurs, gorillas to geckos, everyone’s favorite animal expert has brought the wonder of the animal kingdom to multiple generations, introducing furry, feathery and just plain fascinating creatures on The Late Show with David Letterman, Good Morning America and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Even better, get your wild afternoon started before the show in Paramount’s Grand Gallery at 1 p.m., with a box lunch, a personal visit and photo with Jack Hanna, and your very own floppy camo hat.

The Happy Medium – Kim Russo Friday, November 6, 8 p.m. Tickets: $30, $35, $40 VIP upgrade: $75, includes after show Meet-N-Greet with Russo and autographed picture. No returns or exchanges. Entrance to the show and/or Meet-N-Greet does not guarantee a reading. Must have show ticket to buy VIP Upgrade. She’s been called a translator for the spirit world. She was recently named Best Psychic of 2015 by The Best of Long Island. But you probably know her as Kim Russo, The Happy Medium, and she’s got a pretty rare talent: she can communicate with spirits. From her appearances on A&E’s hit Paranormal State and The Biography Channel’s Celebrity Ghost Stories to her deeply personal readings, Russo has been changing the lives of celebrities and citizens alike with her shocking talent for years. Come experience Kim’s other-worldly skill for yourself. Who knows? Maybe she’ll pick YOU for a reading!

-more- Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 6 of 10

Frank Caliendo November 7, 8 p.m. Tickets: $50, $60 From his countless appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman to his hilarious segments on Fox NFL Sunday to his years on MADtv, Chicago-born Frank Caliendo is a comedic genius. His impersonations of celebs like Charles Barkley, Al Pacino and Bill Clinton are dead-on. His jokes will have you in stitches. His high-energy style has the Hollywood Reporter calling him “a combination of Robin Williams and Jim Carrey.” Whether you’re a sports fan, a political analyst or you just love to laugh, don’t miss Frank Caliendo at the Paramount. Sponsored by Sikich and QRock 100.7.

Peter & Paul Sunday, November 8, 3 p.m. Tickets: $45, $50, $55 Peter, Paul & Mary transformed folk music into a powerful language that soundtracked the Civil Rights movement, the anti-war scene and an entire era of social change. They’ve won five Grammys and made it on the Billboard Top 10 list six times. And they’re celebrating over 50 years of positivity, talent and activism. Join Peter & Paul for a night of gorgeous harmonies, positive messages and hits like “Puff, The Magic Dragon,” “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane.”

Josh Turner Thursday, November 12, 8 p.m. Tickets: $55, $65 People magazine calls him one of Country’s Hottest Stars. His debut single “Long Black Train” went gold. His hit “Why Don’t We Just Dance” was the most-played song of 2010. It’s no wonder Josh Turner is one of the youngest members of the Grand Ole Opry. Don’t miss this CMA and Grammy nominee when he rocks the Paramount with No.1 songs like “Your Man,” “All Over Me” and “Time is Love.” Opening for Turner is MCA Recording Artist and rising star Raquel Cole. Sponsored by the Daily Herald.

Terry Fator Friday, November 13, 8 p.m. Tickets: $79, $89, $99 After he won season two of America’s Got Talent, Terry Fator’s career in singing, dancing, comedy and mind-blowing ventriloquism skyrocketed. Now, he’s got Las Vegas audiences flocking to his one-of-a-kind, award-winning show at The Strip’s Mirage every night. He’s a Vegas sensation, and this is your chance to experience his endless talents live in Aurora, one-night-only.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis Saturday, November 14, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets: $59, $69 There’s no better way to kick off the holidays than with the band that changed Christmas music forever. Helmed by Grammy-winner Chip Davis, the world-renowned Mannheim Steamroller takes favorite songs of the season and beefs them up with their signature new age style dubbed “18th century Classical Rock.” With 40+ years of live performances under their cummerbunds, Mannheim Steamroller is back by popular demand, and promises to leaves audiences in absolute awe. -more-

Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 7 of 10

A Christmas Story – The Musical Book by Joseph Robinette Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul Based on the movie A Christmas Story and In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash Directed by Nick Bowling November 25, 2015-January 3, 2016 Press opening Sunday, November 29, 5:30 p.m. Suggested Rating: PG Tickets: $41-$56 (Buy a season subscription and the most you’ll pay is $28 per show)

One of the most watched and beloved holiday movies ever made comes to life in a full-blown musical production on the Paramount stage. It’s the story of nine-year-old Ralphie Parker growing up in middle-America in the 1940s. With Christmas right around the corner, Ralphie has his bespectacled sights set on one thing – a Red Ryder BB Gun. But at every turn, the young daydreamer hears those five words that are the bane of his existence: “you’ll shoot your eye out.”

A Christmas Story is a holiday classic filled with laughs, dreams, warmth and family. A story filled with a department store Santa, a Leg Lamp, a snowsuit and friends that will never leave your side – even if your tongue is stuck to a flagpole. The music is energetic, unforgettable and ranges from gentle ballads to full-on show-stopping numbers. The imagery takes audiences back to an easier time, but the message remains the same: family, friendship, love. The Broadway Series is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, the Dunham Fund, Rush Copley, Gerald Kia, ComEd and PACE (Paramount Arts Centre Endowment). Also sponsored by Comfort Suites Aurora/ Holiday Inn Express.

Note: There will be two certified sign interpreters translating all dialogue and lyrics into American Sign Language on December 17 at 7 p.m.

The Second City’s Holidazed and Confused Revue At Paramount’s Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora December 4-20 Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Rated R for strong adult language and content Tickets: $36 Spend your holidays with the country’s funniest comedy crew: Second City. These guys are bringing their famous skits, songs and laughs to Paramount’s 175-seat Copley Theatre - a space so intimate, you’re up close and personal with all that Second City fun. No need to go to downtown Chicago to experience their funny, festive show - get some eggnog, get out to Aurora and get ready to laugh. Sponsored by Schmitt McDonald’s.

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Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 8 of 10

Hairspray The Broadway Musical Book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan Music by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman Based on the New Line Cinema film written and directed by John Waters Directed by Amber Mak January 20-February 21, 2016 Press opening Saturday, January 23, 8 p.m. Suggested rating: PG Tickets: $41-$56 (Buy a season subscription and the most you’ll pay is $28 per show) Tracy Turnblad is a plus-size teen with plus-size hair, and she has one big plus-size dream – to dance her way onto Baltimore’s smash hit TV show, “The Corny Collins Show.” Every day after school, she and best friend Penny beeline home to watch the cool kids shake the rafters to the hottest tunes on Collins’ program. When a dance slot opens on the show, Tracy gets help from her friend Seaweed, who puts enough groove in her step to win that dream role – and life is never the same again. But Tracy doesn’t rest on her stardom; instead she uses her new celebrity to racially integrate the show and change the lives of Baltimore folks forever.

Based on the John Waters hit movie, Hairspray is a high-octane ride with thrilling choreography, rockin’ tunes and explosively colorful costumes – plus some really cool hairdos. More importantly, under all the glitz, Hairspray reminds us of the importance of individuality and the acceptance of one another. The Broadway Series is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, the Dunham Fund, Rush Copley, Gerald Kia, ComEd and PACE (Paramount Arts Centre Endowment). Also sponsored by the Daily Herald.

Note: There will be two certified sign interpreters translating all dialogue and lyrics into American Sign Language on February 18, 2016 at 7 p.m.

STOMP Friday, February 26 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, February 27 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets: $39.50, $49.50 There’s a reason Planet Hollywood in Vegas built a theatre for the sole purpose of housing STOMP. And there’s a reason they sold out every show they played at the Paramount last time they were in town. Now’s your chance to experience the most successful off-Broadway creation of all time, back in Aurora. STOMP is an inventive, energizing and downright electrifying spectacle that blends dance, music, percussion and theatricals into one gigantic rhythm that will have your heart pounding.

I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues: A Salute to Ella, Judy & Patsy Sunday, February 28, 3 p.m. Tickets: $30, $35 You can’t say Ella, Judy or Patsy without thinking the word “powerful.” Ella Fitzgerald brought a sultry swing to jazz. Judy Garland pumped every performance with heart-wrenching emotion. Patsy Cline’s tenderness brought sweet soul to country. All three changed America’s musical landscape forever. Join the Paramount for a tribute concert honoring these amazing artists, featuring beloved songs like “Cry Me a River,” “Crazy” “The Man That Got Away” and more. -more-

Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 9 of 10

God Save The Queen Saturday, March 5, 8 p.m. Tickets: $35, $45 God Save The Queen pack Queen’s biggest hits like “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Somebody to Love” into one huge set, and they do it with the over-the-top theatricality that made Queen one of the best-known bands in music history. From the incredible lighting to the epic anthems to lead singer Pablo Padin’s spot-on resemblance (both in voice and looks) to the late, great Freddie Mercury, God Save The Queen will rock you.

West Side Story Based on a conception by Jerome Robbins Book by Arthur Laurents Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Original production choreographed and directed by Jerome Robbins Directed by Paramount Artistic Director Jim Corti March 16-April 24, 2016 Press opening Saturday, March 19, 8 p.m. Suggested rating: PG Tickets: $41-$56 (Buy a season subscription and the most you’ll pay is $28 per show) West Side Story is quite possibly one of the greatest love stories ever to be told in a musical. Set in the blue-collar neighborhood of New York’s Upper West Side, racial tensions run high as residents try to grind out a daily living. A turf war is being fought as the Jets, a white gang, and the Sharks, a Puerto Rican gang, battle over boundaries. In the heart of the turmoil, former Jets member Tony meets Maria at a local dance. The chemistry is instantaneous, and for a few hours, there is no race, no hatred, no barriers, just two young people in love. But Maria is the sister of Sharks’ leader Bernardo, and no one is going to make it easy for Tony and Maria to escape.

From heart-wrenching ballads like “Somewhere” and steamy Latin beats in “America” to the soaring lyrics of “Tonight,” West Side Story is a Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim masterpiece. The choreography is a fine balance of vicious intensity and romance that will take your breath away. The Broadway Series is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, the Dunham Fund, Rush Copley, Gerald Kia, ComEd and PACE (Paramount Arts Centre Endowment). Also sponsored by Kevin Fitzpatrick.

Note: There will be two certified sign interpreters translating all dialogue and lyrics into American Sign Language on April 14, 2016 at 7 p.m.

Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack Show Saturday, May 21, 8 p.m. Tickets: $35, $45 World-renowned actor and comedian Buddy Hackett was a lifelong friend of the Rat Pack. Together, those five guys were the epitome of cool, ruling the Vegas strip and creating a smooth style that’s still emulated today. Now, years later, Buddy’s son Sandy Hackett and his crew of crooners are bringing the boys’ timeless Vegas show to the Paramount stage. Critics have been saying it for years; with Sandy’s personal connection to Frank, Dean, Sammy and Joey, this show is the closest you’ll ever get to seeing the boys back under the stage lights. Sponsored by Old Second Bank. -more- Paramount announces 2015-16 general season – pg 10 of 10

$1 Classic Movie Mondays Most Mondays, year-round Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $1 Make Mondays fun and come see some of the greatest film classics in one of Chicagoland’s original movie palaces – the Paramount. Amenities include a two-story screen, fresh popcorn, fully stocked bar to serve every age and taste, free parking and amazing projection technology. Comedy, horror, romance, action and sci-fi and all for only $1. Go to ParamountAurora.com for a full schedule.

About The Paramount Theatre

The Paramount Theatre is the center for performing arts, entertainment and arts education in Aurora, the second largest city in Illinois. Named "One of Chicago's Top 10 Attended Theatres" by the League of Chicago Theatres, the 1,888-seat Paramount Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Aurora at 23 E. Galena Blvd., is nationally renowned for the quality and caliber of its presentations, superb acoustics and historic beauty.

The Paramount Theatre opened on September 3, 1931. Designed by nationally renowned theater architects C.W. and George L. Rapp, the theater captures a unique Venetian setting portrayed in the art deco influence of the 1930s. The first air-conditioned building outside of Chicago, the Paramount offered the public a variety of entertainment, including "talking pictures," vaudeville, concerts and circus performances for more than 40 years. In 1976, Aurora Civic Center Authority purchased the Paramount and closed the theater for restoration. The $1.5 million project restored the Paramount to its original grandeur. On April 29, 1978, the Paramount Arts Center opened, offering a variety of theatrical, musical, comedy, dance and family programming. In 2006, a 12,000-square-foot, two- story Grand Gallery lobby was added, with a new, state-of-the-art box office, café and art gallery.

Today, the Paramount produces its own Broadway Musical series, presents an eclectic array of comedy, music, dance and family shows, and on most Mondays, screens a classic movie. For tickets and information, go to ParamountAurora.com or call (630) 896-6666.

The Paramount Theatre is one of three live performance venues programmed and managed by the Aurora Civic Center Authority (ACCA). ACCA also oversees the Paramount’s “sister” stage, the intimate, 175-seat Copley Theatre located directly across the street from the Paramount at 8 E. Galena Blvd., as well as RiverEdge Park, downtown Aurora’s summer outdoor concert venue.

The Paramount Theatre continues to expand its artistic and institutional boundaries under the guidance of Tim Rater, President and CEO, Aurora Civic Center Authority; Jim Corti, Artistic Director, Paramount Theatre; a dedicated Board of Trustees and a devoted staff of live theater and music professionals.

For more information, visit ParamountAurora.com.

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