Fantastic place to catch rock concerts or old classic films. But be aware of their insane security to get in and very high drink and snack prices. You won't successfully sneak anything in, so I always grab happy hour nearby if i must have a drink for a show. Also a great place to catch film premieres during SXSW. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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We came here to see Justin Willman, a magic comedy guy whose special we saw streaming Jan. The place was late to fill up and never quite fully filled which was weird as when we got tickets it was already close to filling up. He does a family friendly show so there were a lot of people there with kids, Full families, moms, dads, grandparents. We were one of the few without kids. The staff was very friendly at the entrance, the bar, and when seating. The place is pretty big and has upstairs and downstairs seating as well as a bar on several levels. Two points that did bring the visit a little down. The seating, you are packed in like sardines. No room to stretch even a little, you bump against the stranger next to you or them into you. It is almost worse then an airplane. Two no handrails on several stairs which are also uneven. I have some ongoing spine and foot pain and it caused me issues but I saw several other people struggling and one almost falling themselves. Had it been just me or maybe one other person that would be bad enough but as several people struggled that is a huge safety issue and should be fixed. The ushers helped when they could but sometimes they were helping others and didn't see it happen. Still it was a fun time, if a bit cramped. The staff is great and I love the history but that also means it is very outdated and not very comfy to sit for an hour or more, especially with no intermission. read more

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For anyone familiar with South by Southwest (SXSW), they are no stranger to the Paramount. The Paramount is home to the latest movie and TV premieres for SX, and where you'll often find celebrities. The theatre itself is a work of art, but the seats are the worst. It's uncomfortable, cramped and for anyone needing to use the restroom, good luck on passing by other patrons. The restrooms here have a limited number of stalls. If it weren't for SXSW, I'd heavily pass on this venue. Thank goodness there's a planned renovation coming up! read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Balcony views during SXSW - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

I've actually only been inside twice and that was when my friends in The English Beat put me on the guest list for their show and when I photographed X for a magazine I freelance for. Anyway... Entrance during both events was a breeze and I'm glad for that. Often times when guest listed or on media list, there's some kind of issue. It always gets resolved but can be a hassle. Luckily, the box office really has it together here. In addition, the sound quality is pretty spectacular. Sometimes in a venue as old as the Paramount (since 1915) getting the acoustics right can prove difficult. They've definitely got the latest, state-of-the-art equipment needed for live performances of musicians, comedy acts, plays, and musicals. The interior design is ornate and lovely. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

My first time to the Paramount Theater was a blast as I got to go as a chaperone with my little one's kindergarten class field trip! Paramount's staff really has it down to a tee to safely load and unload a busload of kids, teachers and ensure everyone gets safely checked in and to their seats on time. We got to see Leonardo: A Wonderful Show about a Terrible Monster which was a fantastic puppet show that was 60 minutes tops, perfect for family and fun! I will say parking is hard, we luckily had benefited from the aloft hotel valet corner over who handled the car and made this seamless for us who drove in. Finally, the theatre has so much original charm and whimsy that made me pine for another lifetime that you don't get and see these days, and I enjoy so much that we have the privilege and opportunity as locals to see amazing shows in such an iconic and timeless venue! Can't wait to return and see more iconic shows on this stage! read more

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We finally did the impossible: our plans manifested and we made it out the group chat. The three of us went to The Paramount Theatre to see the Illharmonic Orchestra. Classical strings meets Trap music. Sold. The Paramount was beautiful. It's a historic time capsule from the early 1900s with renovations sprinkled in the mix. It gives the same nostalgic feeling as stepping into an old movie theater. It gives equal parts charm and "wow, people were really small back then" vibes. The seats are TINY, y'all. Im talking they drank no protein shakes back then. After all the renovations they've done over the decades, you'd think bigger seats would've been mandatory in the renovations, but apparently not. So if you're larger, consider this your warning. The shows here may be fire but the seating will test your spirit. The staff is a well-oiled machine. They kept the lines flowing, they checked bags thoroughly, they kept the chaos low and the safety high. Armed security was present and alert, which honestly made me relax and enjoy the night. Parking, though...NOPE! Plan ahead. Don't be the person circling downtown forever and miss the show. A lot of these parking garages charge way too much so just develop a game plan way in advance. All in all, a fun venue, lots of charm, definitely outdated but clean, a fantastic staff and seats built for tiny people. Still worth going, just prepare accordingly. read more

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Austin, Tx. What a great place to enjoy music! I don't think there is a bad seat in the house. I found the balcony center had great sound. The people working here are extraordinarily friendly and helpful, even volunteering to snap photos of your group. The talent offered up is just incredible. On this night we were treated to Hayes Carll with Lyle Lovett. The architectural details are pretty awesome too! The chandeliers are priceless. read more

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This was our first time here. Austin is such a great city, especially during the week. Not too busy and crazy like on the weekends. Place is very nice, especially since I believe this place if 100 years old. Like walking into a Time Machine. Very small lobby, concessions are on the right. There are no steps, just inclines up to the foyer and then back down to the stage/ screen area. Bathrooms are to the left and right. We can for a concert. The sound is great. Not too loud so you can hear everything. We sat to the left side rear. The balcony blocks a small area of the stage, but not enough to see the rest of he stage. read more

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The Paramount is a classic theatre. It's truly ornate and sets the vibe for shows. The employees are well organized and kind. The Paramount is known for hosting shows that introduce kids to the arts, which is so valuable, but they also host a variety of events. They do serve concessions you can take into the theatre and even have a little concession bar in the mezzanine too. I've visited several times and most seats are good. Don't get balcony side seats. They are usually partial view due to rigging. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

The theater itself is 5 stars. The performance - 5 stars. My experience last night 1 star. I love the Paramount for its beauty and great acoustics. And they get great shows/performers. It's small enough that there really are no bad seats, even in the balcony. However, there is a bad seat if the "adult" behind you keeps kicking your seat and laughing constantly and loudly enough through the entire performance that you can't hear a thing other than that hideous cackling. Even when asked to stop, this "adult" got angry. Bad time for all in our group. I've had similar experiences, but none like last evening. Truly makes one not want to spend the money out for a nice show at a great theater. Grow up, people. read more

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The Paramount Theatre is a beautiful historic venue in downtown Austin for movies and live events. The classical revival style structure was built in 1915, and the building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places on June 23, 1976. I went there during the Texas Book Festival for an interesting and timely talk by author Ibram X. Kendi on his latest book, "Malcolm Lives." The seats are comfortable and the acoustics are good. I love going to the Paramount for any event! read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Ibram X Kendi and moderator during talk about "Malcolm Lives." - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The Paramount is one of our favorite venues for live music and movies. They bring in top performers, the venue is gorgeous and staff always super nice! Can't wait for our next event there! read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Everclear!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

Austin is truly lucky to have the Paramount Theatre! I stand by my review below still, but want to add that it participates in the annual Moontower Comedy Festival. It's a great addition to the line up of entertainment. So if you want to see music, comedy, spoken word, drama...you'll find it here. If you're an Austenite and haven't been here yet--why not! And if you're going to be in town visiting, come on down! The Paramount Theatre puts on a great show. read more

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This venue is gorgeous and well organized! I came for a comedy show during the Moontower Comedy Festival and they checked our bags outside and there are lines for the bar inside. Compared to other comedy venues in Austin, I appreciate how there is no drink or food purchase requirement. There were plenty of people escorting us to find our seats. I got there a couple minutes after the show started and one of them even walked me to my row. My only qualm is how close together the rows are. I was in the top balcony and your legs barely have room, but I still had a great view of the stage and there were no visibility issues. I received an email beforehand that they partner with the 600 Congress Parking Garage, and you can pay for a $6 validation at the bar (at least for this show). A great option for parking downtown!! read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

Great. I loved Bob Woodward. He was amazing as was even:the seats were comfortable and I moved to the front so I could see well . read more

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I watched Home Alone at the Paramount at it was so much fun from arriving at the theater, pre-show entertainment, and drinks. The faux-snow outside made our arrival feel like a real winter. The Austin Gay Men's Choir was so entertaining and talented. It was so special watching Home Alone in such a big, beautiful theater. There were so many families and it was so funny listening to the crowds' reactions to the movie and the kids quoting lines from the movie. I plan to come here again for more movies and other shows. read more

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We were visiting Austin for the first time and the loveliest person gifted us free tickets as we were really excited to watch a movie on film, amongst other movie buffs. I didn't have a good experience but that doesn't mean you won't. I found the environment stuffy. The staff were lovely but the patrons were a bit discriminatory, I will not be elaborating further. We were very uncomfortable and left less than halfway through the 2.5 hr move read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Outside - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

Beautiful music in a charming place. From purchasing tickets online to getting by checked in was a breeze. Moreover, the breeze when you walk in is very refreshing. It's a comfortable environment to enjoy whoever you are headed to see. I went with a group from My afro-latin dance classes to see the Bueno Vista Social Club. They were amazing, and they allowed dancing in the aisles. Fantastic live music, or one of their unique seasonal events, the experience is always memorable. The theater's historic decor is breathtaking and adds so much character to the space. From the intricate details of its century-old design to the nostalgic charm of its ambiance, it's worth visiting just to take in the beauty. Despite its age, the venue is clean and well-maintained, with ongoing renovations to modernize the space while preserving its historic charm. The staff consistently deliver exceptional service, creating a warm and welcoming environment for every visit. Seats can be smaller, and vibe is laid back... some people will talk through the whole opener band, so there isn't a super proper etiquette about the place. read more

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Grabbed a single ticket for the ATX Tv festival. The event started at 930, line opened at 8pm, but doors for single ticket holders didn't open until 9. The line was down and around the block when we arrived at 850, but once it was 9 it moved so fast getting people in and we were in and at the bar by 905. We chose the balcony and I'm so glad we did, we got a second row seat. The bar lines were shorter upstairs and so was the restroom. The venue is so old and iconic. Everything was fantastic and we enjoyed the whole evening. Beware if you're not a good stair climber, the stairs on the balcony are a bit steep so going down can be a bit tricky but don't let it stop you from the great views! read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Enjoyed a show in this historic venue. The atmosphere and employees were great. I definitely suggest taking in a show here

Went for a visit to the Paramount during a recent trip to my hometown of Austin. We caught the Sound of Music during the summer film series and it was such a fun experience to get to watch this classic movie on the big screen. The theater is just as I remembered it; beautiful historic details and a funky Austin vibe. read more

Excellent venue. We san Shen Yun and it was incredible and amazing! I've been meaning to attend on of their yearly show and I'm so glad I finally saw it! It was out of this world and as good as they say it is! You need to see it and you won't be sorry! Worth every penny! read more

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It was my first time at the paramount theater, I love it! I had the pleasure to see the Gipsy Kings in concert for the 3er time! I sat on the top because I wanted to make sure I had enough room for dancing, I live 15 mins away so I uber for I didn't have to deal with parking since it was cold. The sit were comfortable and I don't think there is a bad sit there. I was all about the space to be able to move around lol So much, I would totally go back for other events! read more

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Had a great theatre outing to watch Dog Man the musical. A very historical theatre, so you can feel the age of the theatre in the seats. But it's beautiful inside and views from the balcony were great. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - View of lobby from second floor - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Una experiencia única vivida, estuve en este teatro en un show de Michael Jackson y fue increíble, el lugar muy cómodo, los baños muy lindos antiguos y limpios , los precios de lo comestible muy buenos no tan caros, y también venden bebidas calientes como Caffe y chocolate, no solo bebidas alcohólicas read more

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Stunning theater in the heart of Austin. Whenever there's a film festival, speaker, or comedy show, and sometimes a play or two in town this is the premiere venue. It' hosts many world premieres as well during SXSW. I've been here for several comedy acts and even saw Anthony Bourdain here. There a clear bag policy these days so be sure to come here before the start of the show to avoid long lines. Also if you come here early you can enjoy this classic venue and the art work on the ceilings and throughout the building. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Went to see a film premiere during SXSW 2024 and managed to get in as one of the last groups. The last seats left were in the upper balcony in the back. I managed a seat on the walkway so had lots of legroom and had to crane forward and up to see over the railing from the seats ahead (but that's because I'm short). Was so fun to watch a movie with 1200+ people but anytime the audience collectively reacted it would drown out the next line of dialogue. Seats were fairly comfortable but close together. In the back 20 rows on the balcony, I felt like some of the smaller things on screen were hard to read (text messages on phones) and even with 3x zoom on my phone it was hard to make out all the details on the faces of people on the stage. If you don't have 20/20 vision, you won't make out details from this far back. read more

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Nice place to take in an event. Staff is courteous and welcoming, I would gladly attend another event there. The view is excellent even if you sit in upper balcony, the seats and the seating area itself is tight though just to make everyone aware of this, your legs will start to ache due to sitting for a lengthy period. Overall, had a good time at The Jason Bonham Led Zeppelin evening event. read more

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It's a classic venue for all your comedy standups, movie screenings, summer classic movie series, winter classic movie series etc etc I love going here!! It's beautiful! They have popcorn, drinks and everything you need to have a good time! If you haven't been to paramount in Austin - I highly recommend it!! read more

I was meeting some friends here for the Bored Teachers Comedy tour. Entry was easy and quick. Ladies-there is a bag requirement-check the website. (Tiny bag or clear bag) There was a sweet woman named Sarah helping everyone enter the building safely and efficiently. I'm not sure what her title was but she was super friendly and seemed on top of her game. :) Our seats were up in the balcony. I tend to always get a seat down on the floor. These view was not bad but man the seats are tiny or have I gotten bigger since 2020?! ;) I'm 5'7" with pretty long legs and my knees were practically touching the seat in front of me! It's such a beautiful theater. I always love coming here for shows. :) read more

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Delightful first experience at the historic Paramount Theatre seeing Please Don't Destroy (SNL comedy team). The show was supposed to start at 7:05, but they didn't start letting people in from the line that formed around the block until about 6:50, seemed disorganized. People were still trying to enter, get drinks, and find seats after 7pm so the event had to start a bit late, but didn't hinder the performers schedule or our experience really. They had audio and speaker use from the house that went pretty flawlessly for all of the entertainers that night. In such a small space right up in the entrance is the bar, but the drink line is efficient! They have a short, but wide ranging list of wines, ciders/non alcoholic, beers as well as special premade cocktail options and regular bar options. We ordered Live Oak can options. Our seats were in orchestra row J. The seats were pretty spacious for an old theater and the room was a nice chill from the air conditioner in the hot summer air outside. Because it's an old building, the bathrooms are extremely small and very ugly and outdated so it took awhile to get through that line in the end, but otherwise a great time. read more

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My wife and I saw the Band of Heathens here last night. Excellent show! Fair ticket prices. Easy in and out, with parking on the street within a few blocks. Good sound quality. These folks put on a great show. Sat in the mezzanine, second row, a little too far to the right. But, if you can get toward the center in the first three rows of the mezzanine, I think the value, site lines, proximity to the stage, and acoustics, are well worth the money For most concerts at this iconic venue. Bathrooms can get crowded -- long lines -- at intermission. read more

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I am so glad I had the opportunity to attend a screening during SXSW as it finally gave me a chance to explore the Paramount Theatre. After a little sleuthing, I was pleasantly surprised to discover this theatre is a non-profit and hosts countless opportunities for the community and youth. The theatre itself is gorgeous and that alone for the architecture should encourage you to check out the space when you can. They have a packed calendar so make sure to check it out. This theatre has been around for over 100+ years so you can be in awe of the beauty and stature it holds. This bar is one of the best theatre bars I've ever seen. They have a solid liquor portfolio and plenty of snacks to munch on. Of course there's something nostalgic about a popcorn tub. There isn't cupholders but plenty of row space to get yourselves situated comfortably. Came here with my partner and it was the perfect ambiance for date night. I'll be looking for another reason to come here again! I still daydream about the stories this gorgeous space holds. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - SXSW 2023 - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

We saw Ani DiFranco here last night & have seen several concerts, shows & productions over the years. It's a great date, concert or family entertainment night venue. It's so beautiful inside & out & fun just to visit the theater to soak up the history, beyond the show you might see. There are fancy ornamental balconies & colorful paint with the velvet old-fashioned seats. Even the bathrooms are cool to see for the historic architecture. As for our particular concert (& concerts in general), you'll never have a bad seat since it is a smaller space. The sound & lighting are professionally done. There are a couple of cute little bars to pick up beverages. There are lots of people to help you find your seat. Getting in & out of the venue was quick & easy. The venue had discounted parking outlined in the emailed link to access tickets. There were tons of options to get food downtown & it was surprisingly not too crowded on a Thursday night. Overall, it was a fun night & I will look for more shows at the paramount. Support this little gem. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Ani Difranco on stage at the Paramount. - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

We attended the Banff Mountain film festival tour here and what a delight! This was my first visit to the Paramount and it was as so lovely. Beautiful design, comfy (enough) seats and great staff (although I'm not sure who was event staff versus theatre staff.) I'll definitely keep an eye out for other events hosted here. Great evening. read more

The grand dame of Austin's performing arts spaces, the iconic Paramount has been welcoming audiences for over a century. There is simply no other venue in town with the "special something" that you can soak in here. Steps from the Capitol and around the block from rowdy Dirty 6th, you're in the center of the downtown entertainment action, but also in a portal to another time. If you're going to call yourself an Austinite or have proper exposure to our town, you simply must visit. I moved to Austin from Deep East Texas in 1990, and I'd never before experienced anything like the Paramount. Upon my first show, I was in love. Here was the epitome of a truly FANCY theater like those I'd glimpsed in movies all my life, with the antique marquee out front, the gold leaf-adorned decorations inside, the exclusive boxes at the sides of the stage, the red velvet seats, and the magnificent painted ceiling. I could imagine the finely dressed couples of a bygone era attending the opera, or classic film stars on a big screen. The idea that so many people from other decades had enjoyed themselves in that same room gave me an extra thrill. Thirty-plus years later, yes, she's old, out of ADA-compliance (as a historic venue), without potty parity, and in need of ongoing special care, but The Paramount is still one of my favorite places to listen to a revered artist perform. I'm on the mailing list to ensure I get early notification of ticket pre-sales, and I'm online at least 10 minutes before the sale starts to ensure I get my preferred seats in the 2nd row of the Mezzanine. If you have the extra cash to do so, you can also join the nonprofit's Members Club to get even earlier ticket access and other perks like parking and pre-show VIP receptions (depending on membership level). We usually make early dinner reservations at one of the good restaurants nearby and make a big night of it. Easy-walking options include Higher Ground, Quattro Gatti, Roaring Fork, Caroline's, or the Driskill's 1886 Cafe. If you don't eat beforehand, there are a few "movie theater" snacks available at each bar to tide you over; see the menu here: https://www.austintheatre.org/menu/ Don't miss the Walk of Fame stars on the sidewalk before you enter, and take plenty of time to scan the exterior facade for other Easter eggs. Once inside, notice all of the plush fabrics, elegant chandeliers, and creaking wood sounds underfoot as you climb stairs or cross the carpeted floors. That hole in the ceiling next to Saint Cecilia's painting? It was made by Houdini! Is that a ghost in the alcove? Maybe.... Know before you go: - Bars are cashless. - Clear bag policy in effect. - Park at 600 Congress for $10, or use Park Whiz app or Park ATX app to find a good spot. Even better, take rideshare. If you have accessibility concerns, call the box office in advance for arrangements at (512) 474-1221 or check out their Accessibility Info page at https://www.austintheatre.org/visit/accessibility/ read more

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A wide variety of acts with consistent 5 star service. Friendly works both paid and volunteer. Gorgeous place and a plan for improvements in the near future. When you are there check out the 1930s Paramount decor the lamps, the gold embellishments, the ladies bathroom upstairs. Also look up near St Cecelia, patron saint of the arts, there's a small hole left from when Houdini performed there in 1916. Lovely place! read more

I've been here twice. Both were for comedians. The theater is small, but big enough to hold many people. They don't have designated parking, but there is a parking lot nearby that will be $10. You do have to get your ticket from the bar or the ticket office when you arrive. When you leave the parking lot you just use that ticket to leave. We had our entrance tickets download it on our phone. It was easy to walk in and just get scanned. We were directed towards our seat by the usher. The seats were nice and comfortable. We were sitting closer to the stage, but most of the seats are in a good location. They do have several bars. As you can expect, the drinks are not cheap, but comparable to most entertainment venues. They also have snacks. They are movie size candy boxes and chips. $6 each. The restrooms are dated and there was water all over the floor in the stalls the day of the show. Not sure if one of the toilets were leaking. The surrounding area has a lot of different restaurants and bars. You can definitely get food and drink before or after. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Wow! My first time at the Paramount was fabulous! It really does feel like you are stepping back in time...it is so imagine the glitz and glamour! A friend asked me if I wanted to see Joseph and I'm so glad I said yes! They were absolutely amazing and I can't wait to see them again. Unfortunately we missed the opening act Flyte because the parking garage recommended on the website was actually closed for a street festival. So we ended up doing a "big bend, parliament" type of tour around downtown looking for parking. Next time I will be sure to check to make sure the parking information is correct! The sound was muffled in the back under the overhang so I will try the balcony seats at the next show. The Paramount is showing popular 80's movies this summer so I hope to catch my favorites. Besides the parking issue, the only other con is that the bathroom lines are way too long. read more

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Old, but charmingly beautiful theatre. Very well staffed to help you find your seat and a couple of bars throughout to help service bar drinks and snacks. NOTE- I sat in the upper right balcony (Row T) the seats were very small- Im 5'8, 200 lbs and I felt like a monster sitting a very tiny seat. The seats are not "plus size" friendly. I know some theaters offer "bigger" seats on the floor then the balcony so maybe the floor seats offer more room, but I'm just speaking from my experience in the balcony. I felt very much on top of the person sitting next to me- the seats were very close together. A very "crammed" feeling. read more

Paramount Theatre For the Performing Arts - Stage from the balcony (upper right- row T) - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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