Paramount Theatre-Oakland
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This the best and most ornate theater in the Bay Area. It was originally opened in 1931 as a grand movie palace (yes Palace!). The Art Deco Decor is everywhere, on every surface, with unique patented ceilings, gold leaf everywhere, art carved into the walls, period furniture, carpets, light fixtures, and a Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ (which can reproduce the sounds of a symphony orchestra, including percussion). Wandering around the theater looking at the hundreds of artistic elements in the decor is worth the price of admission. I have been here many times over the decades and each time I am in awe of the decor. You don't get tired of it. There is so much to see you can't see it all in many visits. I was here on Friday 17 July 2026 for a performance of the 1920 movie "The Mark of Zorro" with Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. This silent movie was accompanied by Mark Herman playing the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Not only was the original Zorro (all the other Zorro movies are remakes of this one) movie very good, the music was fantastic. I was seated in the center of the balcony in the second row, perfect for the full sound experience of the mighty organ (whose pipes are level with the balcony on both the left and right walls just in front of the state). You can feel the music as well as hear it. (I did say the organ was Mighty!). This showing was part of the Paramount's summer classic movie series every Friday night. Get there at 6pm to explore the theater. Then there is a half hour concert of theater organ music, then the Cartoon Short (it was Tom and Jerry on this day). Then follows a prize drawing (Deco-Win) where based on the numbers drawn that match your ticket stub, you can win prizes. Then the movie follows. Everything here is perfect except one thing. The prices at the snack bar. There is a mandatory 20% service change and sales tax applied after the high menu prices. I had a cognac and some caramel corn and it cost about $32!!!. The price of the movie ticket was only $10. The theater is only a half a block from the BART 19th station (20th street exit), so BART is the best way to get to the theater.
The box office set up and location is chaotic. I love the seats though. Not too far away from the stage, wherever you sit. My friend ordered a double shot of titos and when the total popped up there, I was flabbergasted. $42 for one drink and a $6 service fee. Im not encouraging you to pack your own liquor but when it rang up to more than a Sam's club 750 ml. Maaaan. So never buying liquor here. I will enjoy a show and go on my way. Please stay away from any flirtatious security guards here too lol. I'll just leave it at that, people are really crazy these days. Anyway.. enjoyed the show on the evening I attended.
Gorgeous venue with that old school charm. Came to see the 112 tour. Sound was good and seats were comfortable.
This is a really lovely, historic old theatre. I've been here a handful of times. Most recently, I came for a comedy show. The theatre is ornate! Look up at the ceiling, and around at the walls. Head up the curving staircase! Snap a photo of the marquee and the tall neon sign. The building is opulent! It's very close to BART, so it makes transportation to the venue a breeze. Avoid driving or you're likely to get your car broken into like I did when I came to a Yelp Elite Event nearby. :( Also, take note, they have a very strict no outside food or drinks policy. I had a very tiny purse, and I had a small package of crackers from Colombia my friend had just gifted me, and the staff took them off me! I also had a chomp stick and a package of roasted chestnuts. (I hadn't had dinner and was worried we wouldn't have time to eat before the show, so I packed a couple of tiny snacks in my bag). The door person was super nice and she said she'd hold them for me until after the show. Unfortunately, after the show, she went to get them from the locked ticket booth and someone took them! So a fellow staff member snatched my snacks. That's pretty messed up. I mean, I should have looked up the policy before I attended, but it's also pretty messed up that a staff member took my stuff after they were being held for me. The staff member said she had it with her own stuff; she was very surprised that they went missing as well. Other than the snack snafu, the seats were very comfortable and the pitch between the seats is generous! There was so much leg room! Plus, I didn't feel cramped at the shoulders. This is such a rarity for a theater and deserves mentioning! There are bathrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Overall, this is a great venue with a convenient BART accessible location! I'll be back.
Just visited the Paramount for the first time and I'm still kind of in awe! Honestly, I don't know how I've lived in the Bay Area this long without checking this place out. The theater is absolutely gorgeous like, old Hollywood gorgeous. The Art Deco details are insane. I found myself just staring at the ceiling and the light fixtures instead of finding my seat. Sound quality was great, seats were comfy enough, and the staff were nice. The building itself is the star of the show.
I attended a graduation at the Paramount. The building is historic and should be preserved for its beauty. , The decor and fixtures are so beautiful, from the entrance, throughout the building into the theater. The seats definitely need to be restored though. I was literally sitting on the metal rails because the cushions were so worn. It was hurting and I couldn't balance myself in my seat. I wanted to switch with my daughter but she said her seat was just as bad.
Such a gorgeous venue! We were privileged to attend a citizenship swearing in ceremony here last week. The setting was stunning, and quite appropriate for celebrating our newest citizens. What a treat to sit in the balcony and take in all the visual art deco masterful design elements while waiting for the event to begin. The ceilings, especially, are something special to behold. I heard someone say that the theater had been refurbished at great expense. The results were amazing. It's important to preserve the historical design legacy of such a unique venue. The acoustics were terrific, as well. It would be a wonderful treat to attend a concert or other performance here. Parking was just a short walk away, though not inexpensive at $30 for this particular event.
First time at this venue, came to see Keith Sweat and Case! It was an amazing overall experience. The only thing I would probably improve are the seats. They were kinda worn down and you can feel the metal underneath. Case and Keith Sweat were amazing! I sat four rows back from the main stage and had a great view. They're pretty strict on no re-entries if you try to leave and come back. There's also no vaping or smoking inside. I didn't get to try any food but I saw some people munching on chips with their drinks, which I'm assuming they purchased at the bar. Coming back again in a couple months for another event, and I'm looking forward to it. I got lucky with free parking outside, just a block away. Timing is everything :)
As show venues go, logistics always is a factor. Not here. Literally 1 block from the staircase of the 19th street BART station IS The Paramount Theatre! We've seen a few shows here but never did a review. Easy to get to, genuine old school architecture, great sound, alright and expensive snacks, (show pricing) and alchemy at the bar (probably expensive too), but overall a really great experience. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this venue for any kind of show. It isn't Chase, it isn't Levi's, it's a one of a kind, precious and historic Theatre (I call it Theater but whatever). Have fun!
Always good times here. This turn around we did the tour for the holidays. There is a lot of fun history to learn from the tour. Okay you get to see some is the back rooms and backstage areas. Additionally - the design of the building and decorations are wonderful. Check it out.
A beautiful theatre that has stood the test of time. So glad Oakland has kept this place afloat during such times as these. I went bc of Bibi, K-Pop singer who is debuting her 1st World Tour & she chose Oakland to perform, so happy that Oakland is trying to incorporate a wider audience. The inside has been beautiful maintained. The only confusing part to these events is when they offer a Meet & Greet Swag Bag that often I notice there is no sign indicating which is a preferred swag bag line vs.ticket holders line. Also, I was quite disappointed when the usher passed by obstructing our view not just once,twice, three times but at least 5-6 times. Either allowing late comers to pass by all throughout Bibi's performance or either feeling the need to just walk by. My patience was running thin with this occurrence. Other than this issue, it was nice to be in this iconic Oakland theatre that has stood the test of time.
The wife and I visited The Paramount for the first time, to hear "Two Black Churches" and Carmina Burana. Odd pairing, but it made sense for this election week. Anyway, the acoustics were quite reasonable for our perch in the front balcony section, left. The place is very cavernous, but we could see the stage fine. There didn't appear to be any partially blocked seats, since there were no interior columns. What an incredible space! Absolutely gorgeous art deco interior, from the central lobby area, to the upstairs lounge areas, to the magnificent auditorium. It looked brand new condition. The last restoration, according to one usher, was about 1971, and they just keep it in perfect condition all the time. Come see a show, and be awed.
My friend had her graduation ceremony here. It's not close to home, but easy to find. They have their own parking lot, plus there's a parking garage next to the theater. The employees were so friendly and helpful. Moreover, the bathrooms are beautiful. I had to take a picture. Lol
21 days ago
This has to be the most beautiful Art Deco theater in California. The Arts, Oakland has done a fantastic job in keeping up with this property. The large neon sign is eye catching. The lights in the entrance near the ticket booth is nostalgic. The Lobby, whoa the lobby is breathtaking. You can't help but follow the stairs all the way up the ceiling back around behind you to see the custom glass that looks like clouds. You wish they still made theaters like this. There are no elevators for public use in this building. It's all stairs. There's a bar on the first & second floor. There's also a coat check which I appreciated. I checked in my poster while I enjoyed the show hands free of the merch I bought before the show. The ladies restroom, very Glamorous with the lilac carpet and all Around glass & mirrored vanities that are apart from Le Toilette. It's really a powder room. Through the swinging double art deco doors are the toilets. Like stepping into a time capsule. I took a picture of this stainless steel telephone panel, staff told me it was how they called each floor to communicate with the ushers. There's plenty of staff tonight & I wonder if they're senior volunteers. In my balcony seat, Row G seat 1 the leg room was very cramped. Minimal, no space . I'm 5'2" and I was struggling-I couldn't extend my legs unless I had my right leg extended towards the stairs. I see now why it was available. The locals already know. Anyhoo, there's was an Usher, an older senior lady & she walked up to me, "You can do that, put you leg inside." No problem. I complied without saying a word. Next, I put my phone on the ledge in its stand charging. The lady came back around, she said, "You can't put that there, you can't record, you going to have to move that or put it down. I didn't say anything, took it off the stand & laid it down while charging. My purse, where to put it. So I hung it off the rail in front of me. The same Usher came up & said, "You can't do that, you have to put your purse on the floor. Oh the horror, so I hung it on the armrest close to the stairs. When she saw that, I moved it. At this point people are coming in, the show hasn't started & it's up, down, up down because there is literally no legroom. Luckily I have another seat. I got up to leave this seat. That same Usher was at the stairs, as I was leaving, she leaned over to me as if she was going to say something to me. I hung into the rail, ignored her & left on my way. See that was confirmation to me that I was in her sights. I felt like she was harassing me. She was like the grandma babysitter that didn't want you to do anything, not move, not even sneeze. On to downstairs to Orch Row AA seat 17. This by far was a better seat & so much legroom. You can actually roll a wheelchair through this. That's how wide this row was. Perfect to sneak some pics from this spot. I enjoyed the entire Snarky Puppy set from this seat. They played songs from their new album Somni. Waves Upon Waves was the opening song. These are great talented artists, jazz musicians. I will definitely see them again. After the show, I went to wait in line to have three musicians sign my poster. I was hoping the violinist & the saxophone player came out. No dice. Maybe next time. Add this venue to your concert list. This was my second time here. First was Jill Scott and absolutely no phones upon walking in. Looking forward to posting some reels of this event on my SM accounts. read more
3 months ago
We had the pleasure of taking in Ms. Jill Scott! She put on an excellent show. From start to finish, we got our money's worth. The acoustics were on point, band was in sync & the background vocalists were in tune. All Jill had to do was open up and sang! And did!!! I didn't like people standing up blocking views. It almost ruined the show. Nothing wrong w/enjoying yourself but be respectful/mindful to everyone around you. There were no phones or smart glasses allowed. I get it but I think it's overkill to a certain degree. If you say no phones, stand on it at the start of the show & just escort people out that don't comply. The refreshment prices were ridiculous! I paid almost $60 for two cocktails, a can of water & a box of candy. Lesson learned, if you know what I mean... We had a blast & blew some cash... #GoSee read more
I came here last night to see The Maltese Falcon (based on the book by the excellent Dashiell Hammett). I had no idea how popular this would be! There was barely an empty seat. The mixed aged crowd was really into the whole experience which included the organ playing, wheel spin for prizes from local businesses, and fun cartoons and old movie previews. It was a fun, unique way to spend an evening. read more
This the best and most ornate theater in the Bay Area. It was originally opened in 1931 as a grand movie palace (yes Palace!). The Art Deco Decor is everywhere, on every surface, with unique patented ceilings, gold leaf everywhere, art carved into the walls, period furniture, carpets, light fixtures, and a Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ (which can reproduce the sounds of a symphony orchestra, including percussion). Wandering around the theater looking at the hundreds of artistic elements in the decor is worth the price of admission. I have been here many times over the decades and each time I am in awe of the decor. You don't get tired of it. There is so much to see you can't see it all in many visits. I was here on Friday 17 July 2026 for a performance of the 1920 movie "The Mark of Zorro" with Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. This silent movie was accompanied by Mark Herman playing the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Not only was the original Zorro (all the other Zorro movies are remakes of this one) movie very good, the music was fantastic. I was seated in the center of the balcony in the second row, perfect for the full sound experience of the mighty organ (whose pipes are level with the balcony on both the left and right walls just in front of the state). You can feel the music as well as hear it. (I did say the organ was Mighty!). This showing was part of the Paramount's summer classic movie series every Friday night. Get there at 6pm to explore the theater. Then there is a half hour concert of theater organ music, then the Cartoon Short (it was Tom and Jerry on this day). Then follows a prize drawing (Deco-Win) where based on the numbers drawn that match your ticket stub, you can win prizes. Then the movie follows. Everything here is perfect except one thing. The prices at the snack bar. There is a mandatory 20% service change and sales tax applied after the high menu prices. I had a cognac and some caramel corn and it cost about $32!!!. The price of the movie ticket was only $10. The theater is only a half a block from the BART 19th station (20th street exit), so BART is the best way to get to the theater. read more
The box office set up and location is chaotic. I love the seats though. Not too far away from the stage, wherever you sit. My friend ordered a double shot of titos and when the total popped up there, I was flabbergasted. $42 for one drink and a $6 service fee. Im not encouraging you to pack your own liquor but when it rang up to more than a Sam's club 750 ml. Maaaan. So never buying liquor here. I will enjoy a show and go on my way. Please stay away from any flirtatious security guards here too lol. I'll just leave it at that, people are really crazy these days. Anyway.. enjoyed the show on the evening I attended. read more
25 days ago
1 month ago
11 months ago
This is a really lovely, historic old theatre. I've been here a handful of times. Most recently, I came for a comedy show. The theatre is ornate! Look up at the ceiling, and around at the walls. Head up the curving staircase! Snap a photo of the marquee and the tall neon sign. The building is opulent! It's very close to BART, so it makes transportation to the venue a breeze. Avoid driving or you're likely to get your car broken into like I did when I came to a Yelp Elite Event nearby. :( Also, take note, they have a very strict no outside food or drinks policy. I had a very tiny purse, and I had a small package of crackers from Colombia my friend had just gifted me, and the staff took them off me! I also had a chomp stick and a package of roasted chestnuts. (I hadn't had dinner and was worried we wouldn't have time to eat before the show, so I packed a couple of tiny snacks in my bag). The door person was super nice and she said she'd hold them for me until after the show. Unfortunately, after the show, she went to get them from the locked ticket booth and someone took them! So a fellow staff member snatched my snacks. That's pretty messed up. I mean, I should have looked up the policy before I attended, but it's also pretty messed up that a staff member took my stuff after they were being held for me. The staff member said she had it with her own stuff; she was very surprised that they went missing as well. Other than the snack snafu, the seats were very comfortable and the pitch between the seats is generous! There was so much leg room! Plus, I didn't feel cramped at the shoulders. This is such a rarity for a theater and deserves mentioning! There are bathrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Overall, this is a great venue with a convenient BART accessible location! I'll be back. read more
Just visited the Paramount for the first time and I'm still kind of in awe! Honestly, I don't know how I've lived in the Bay Area this long without checking this place out. The theater is absolutely gorgeous like, old Hollywood gorgeous. The Art Deco details are insane. I found myself just staring at the ceiling and the light fixtures instead of finding my seat. Sound quality was great, seats were comfy enough, and the staff were nice. The building itself is the star of the show. read more
I attended a graduation at the Paramount. The building is historic and should be preserved for its beauty. , The decor and fixtures are so beautiful, from the entrance, throughout the building into the theater. The seats definitely need to be restored though. I was literally sitting on the metal rails because the cushions were so worn. It was hurting and I couldn't balance myself in my seat. I wanted to switch with my daughter but she said her seat was just as bad. read more
Such a gorgeous venue! We were privileged to attend a citizenship swearing in ceremony here last week. The setting was stunning, and quite appropriate for celebrating our newest citizens. What a treat to sit in the balcony and take in all the visual art deco masterful design elements while waiting for the event to begin. The ceilings, especially, are something special to behold. I heard someone say that the theater had been refurbished at great expense. The results were amazing. It's important to preserve the historical design legacy of such a unique venue. The acoustics were terrific, as well. It would be a wonderful treat to attend a concert or other performance here. Parking was just a short walk away, though not inexpensive at $30 for this particular event. read more
First time at this venue, came to see Keith Sweat and Case! It was an amazing overall experience. The only thing I would probably improve are the seats. They were kinda worn down and you can feel the metal underneath. Case and Keith Sweat were amazing! I sat four rows back from the main stage and had a great view. They're pretty strict on no re-entries if you try to leave and come back. There's also no vaping or smoking inside. I didn't get to try any food but I saw some people munching on chips with their drinks, which I'm assuming they purchased at the bar. Coming back again in a couple months for another event, and I'm looking forward to it. I got lucky with free parking outside, just a block away. Timing is everything :) read more
As show venues go, logistics always is a factor. Not here. Literally 1 block from the staircase of the 19th street BART station IS The Paramount Theatre! We've seen a few shows here but never did a review. Easy to get to, genuine old school architecture, great sound, alright and expensive snacks, (show pricing) and alchemy at the bar (probably expensive too), but overall a really great experience. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this venue for any kind of show. It isn't Chase, it isn't Levi's, it's a one of a kind, precious and historic Theatre (I call it Theater but whatever). Have fun! read more
1 month ago
11 months ago
Always good times here. This turn around we did the tour for the holidays. There is a lot of fun history to learn from the tour. Okay you get to see some is the back rooms and backstage areas. Additionally - the design of the building and decorations are wonderful. Check it out. read more
10 months ago
A beautiful theatre that has stood the test of time. So glad Oakland has kept this place afloat during such times as these. I went bc of Bibi, K-Pop singer who is debuting her 1st World Tour & she chose Oakland to perform, so happy that Oakland is trying to incorporate a wider audience. The inside has been beautiful maintained. The only confusing part to these events is when they offer a Meet & Greet Swag Bag that often I notice there is no sign indicating which is a preferred swag bag line vs.ticket holders line. Also, I was quite disappointed when the usher passed by obstructing our view not just once,twice, three times but at least 5-6 times. Either allowing late comers to pass by all throughout Bibi's performance or either feeling the need to just walk by. My patience was running thin with this occurrence. Other than this issue, it was nice to be in this iconic Oakland theatre that has stood the test of time. read more
4 months ago
The wife and I visited The Paramount for the first time, to hear "Two Black Churches" and Carmina Burana. Odd pairing, but it made sense for this election week. Anyway, the acoustics were quite reasonable for our perch in the front balcony section, left. The place is very cavernous, but we could see the stage fine. There didn't appear to be any partially blocked seats, since there were no interior columns. What an incredible space! Absolutely gorgeous art deco interior, from the central lobby area, to the upstairs lounge areas, to the magnificent auditorium. It looked brand new condition. The last restoration, according to one usher, was about 1971, and they just keep it in perfect condition all the time. Come see a show, and be awed. read more
My friend had her graduation ceremony here. It's not close to home, but easy to find. They have their own parking lot, plus there's a parking garage next to the theater. The employees were so friendly and helpful. Moreover, the bathrooms are beautiful. I had to take a picture. Lol read more
Great theater! Surprisingly this theater is pretty spacey. Came here for the Matt Rife show this past weekend and it was a great experience. Once you go in there's two bars down stairs with small snacks & drinks - beer, cider, etc - popcorn, chips, candy Wish they had fresh popcorn.. but nevertheless, a pretty cool theater! read more
3 years ago
Came to the Paramount Theatre to see Theo Von: Return of the Rat. The theater looks very beautiful inside. We got balcony seats and they are tiny. The acoustics weren't great, lots of echoes. I probably missed 30% of the show due to not being able to hear him. If you are gonna come here I would recommend getting a closer seat. The security was working hard and did an amazing job. Quick and safe security check when you enter the building. We had very loud drunk men two rows behind us who were very talkative and one of the security guys got them completely under control. It did take him a couple of tries to calm them down but in the end, it all worked out. 3.5 stars just because of the balcony seats, but I would love to come back. read more
The three stars are not for the venue. I'm giving three stars because during the concert, no one was taking care of the isles. Folks were standing and dancing out of their seats in the isles. Vaping Marijuana was relentless. Folks sitting on front of me with the hats with lights, which made it hard to see and enjoy the concert. The last artist didn't finish his set as the lights came on. Everyone got up and started walking out. I. Come to the paramount often for concerts this was the first one that was not managed properly. For sure I'll come back for other concerts but this event could have used mire care. read more
It was my first time last night going to the Paramount Theatre! I'm surprised I haven't heard of it before but it's a very nice theatre for a concert! There are only seats which is nice since you don't have to line up early to reserve your spot. Audio is great all around and the staff is super friendly. There is parking areas all around and street parking (park with caution!) read more
2 years ago
We've traveled from Sacramento to Paramount Oakland several times to see different performers, including Kevin Hart and, more recently, the All-Star Comedy Jam on Valentine's Day. The venue itself is beautiful, with its classic architecture and multiple bars, making it fairly easy to grab a drink despite the long lines (usually within 10-15 minutes). One thing we did notice was a stark difference in the crowds depending on the event. The Kevin Hart audience felt more diverse and mature, while the All-Star Comedy Jam had a much rowdier vibe--including a fight that security handled quickly, though we didn't see much security presence beforehand. The biggest downside for me is the restroom accessibility. As someone who struggles with stairs, I wish they were easier to access. Overall, it's a great venue, but the experience depends largely on the event you attend. read more
What a beautiful venue. Came here for Hip Hop Nutcracker and had a great time. They have a small parking lot but we just parked nearby for free. It is near Bart and a bunch of food and bars so you won't be starved. The theater itself has a full bar and snacks too and bathroom is nicely decorated downstairs. The seats are old but comfortable. read more
11 months ago
We went to see Louis CK here and it was great. There was plentiful flat-fee parking across the street, really good food vendors on every corner, and a quick and safe entry process. The decor is very 1920s, think The Shining. The bathrooms were definitely not a priority and felt more like a high school bathroom. Overall it was a beautiful theater where everyone got a great vantage point. I would definitely see another show there. read more
1 year ago
7 months ago
What a cool venue! Came here for the first time to see Matt Rife and was impressed! Parking garage was close, right across the street, you pay by app. Outdoor staff kept the lines in order and moving. Security checks upon entering were efficient. Inside decor was grand and had a historic vibe. They had bars & restrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Easy to find our seats upon entering the theatre. Love the small feel atmosphere, made it easy to follow along with his crowd work. Overall neat place and glad I got to experience it! read more
First time here to see Matt Rife. Everything went smooth from check in time . They did a great job making lines move fast. Multiple bars . I love the old vintage feel of the bathrooms ,and just the place in general . Had a great time ! read more
3 years ago
I went to see the amazing Trevor Noah at the Paramount theater . I had a wonderful time. The theater is beautiful. There are a few nearby places to grab a bite within 3-5 minutes walking distance from the theatre. I recommend Agave Uptown ... 3 min walk away. Reservations highly recommended. The big question ...PARKING. ... the theater has a small parking lot right next to the theater entrance for a flat fee. However, immediate across the street the City of Oakland has a parking structure ... you pay using the Park Mobile app. So in reality parking is not an issue. Enjoy your visit! read more
4 years ago
This theatre is gorgeous! I had the pleasure of attending the sold out Chris Rock show and I was also excited to check out this venue that I've never been to before. My friends and I were so impressed on how organized the event was, even grabbing a drink was quick and easy. Since we had to lock our phone in a lock pouch during the show we felt like it was going to take a lot of time before and after, not at all. I think the fact that they were fully staffed helped the event go smoothly. I would for sure attend another show here. I hope more artists book this theatre! read more
3 years ago
Many years ago I had joined the paramount guided walking tour of their art deco building. They have since resumed those tours some Saturdays and I would highly recommend attending if you enjoy architect, sightseeing, unique buildings, walking, art, etc.. Today I was here for the 7:30pm Tina fey and Amy Poehler comedy show with 5 friends. We showed up at 6:40pm and the line was around the corner. They had just opened the doors and people were shuffling in one by one through the security gates. Luckily for us, a man directed us to a second line people were not aware of and we were inside before we knew it. A man scanned each of the 6 Ticketmaster tickets I had on my phone with his handheld scanner. These tickets you can add to your Apple wallet with ease. This show only has digital tickets, no print copies allowed. The inside of the venue is impressive with its high ceilings, colorful decor, and preserved history. The line at the first bar was already getting long but we luckily found another one downstairs with no line. I ordered a Sauvignon blanc and it came in a can the bartender poured into a compostable cup. It ended up being more than a single pour because of the can size but I was charged the $14 single pour price. This includes the tip, which is both confusing and a relief! They only accept cards or Apple Pay no cash. We sat in the balcony after climbing two sets of stairs and there's staff to help us at every corner. The seats are small like basic economy airplane size. I fit comfortably, but I'm small. Unfortunately no cup holders so we had to put our drinks under our seats and an empty cup had been left behind under the seat from the previous show. The row at the front rail got in trouble for placing their drinks on the railing because they were in danger of falling on the heads of people underneath. DO NOT WAIT FOR TO USE THE WOMENS RESTROOM! I made the mistake of waiting 10 minutes before showtime and it took me 20 minutes to go through. The bar line was also long and there was a lot of confused women wondering were the ladies room was because the line is snaked around the bar line. There are only 3 stalls on this level and the theater holds 3000+ guests. When I got out of the toilet, the line was snaked even longer. There was no line for the men's. We couldn't see the faces of the performers but the sound was clear. There was a large screen with video which we were able to see. The seats are staggered and sloped at the balcony so we could see between the people In front of us. I recommend getting the rail seats if you are up here. After the show, there was a big shuffle to exit. No one pushed, but we herded out like cattle out the entrance. Some of the staff were saying thank you and goodbye as you emerged onto the sidewalk waiting with the smells of street hot dogs. We parked across the street at Franklin parking garage thanks to the city's promotion to pay only $5 for evenings there now. Bart is also very convenient. read more
It's a very nostalgic venue. It reminds me of the Golden Gate in sf. It's very cozy , great vibe, and very inviting for dancing. The bathrooms are like a big party too. They're huge and even have couches chairs and a room for selfies. They have a lot of Motown at this venue which I love. read more
Performance Event: The Whispers & New Stylistics (bands) Could it be the "Apollo Theater of the West Coast?" Hmm. Came out for my first time to the historic Paramount Theater Oakland to see one of the favorite R&B bands of my adolescence--the Whispers. Big bonus with the (New) Stylistics opening the set. The treasure that is the Paramount blew me away in many respects, with it's throwback opulence. Theater is listed on no less than 4 Historical Society Registers, including the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1977. Bob Marley & the Wailers, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, James Brown, Diana Ross, Bonnie Raitt, Al Green, Lionel Richie, B.B. King, Count Basie, Anita Baker, Elvis Costello, and Gladys Night are but a few of the legends that have graced the stage here. And the theater is about 1 month shy of celebrating it's 92nd birthday as of this review (opening to the public for the first time in December, 1931). The theater uses Ticketmaster (don't get me started on them) for ticketing, but thankfully also opens their box office on Fridays for in-person ticket purchases without the dreaded service fees. The theater welcomes surprisingly about 3,000 patrons for a given performance. Masks are currently not required, and I'm guessing 99.5% of the guests this night left their masks at home. Parking + traffic on busy, full-capacity nights such as this one can be challenging, to say the least. After 6pm, when free street parking begins, the spots around the theater along Broadway and side streets fill up quickly naturally. Private lots charge anywhere from $12-$20 or better for the time it takes to see a performance. Both the Whispers & the Stylistics put forth adequate, if not over-the-top sets (these are all mostly senior citizen performers after all). And both bands humbly thanked the capacity crowd for their many years of patronage & support. The acoustics inside this nearly century-old venue are surprisingly very good. Subtracting one star total from the overall experience of the theater for the following: (1) Parking (or lack thereof), (2) seat upholstery condition (3) limited men's restroom options, and (4) bare-minimum ADA compliance. Seats are probably gonna need to be re-upholstered soon, several sections threadbare and showing significant wear, but guessing that'll likely be a multi-million dollar renovation? Men's restrooms are limited relative to capacity. Lower level restrooms and "powder-room" lounges are reserved for women only, perhaps a throwback to a more chivalrous era? Handicapped access to the theater--while not impossible--presents some challenges with access seemingly only available on the ground floor orchestra section (no visible lifts witnessed to other levels). Guessing architects in the late 1920's didn't have disabled folks at the forefront of their thinking? And finally, giving a plug to the nearby taco truck Tacos La San Marquenna (see my separate review) about 2-3 blocks away at the intersection of 20th & Webster Sts. for great after-performance munchies. They're open usually until midnight or later most nights. There's also several probably unlicensed street vendors selling bacon-wrapped hotdogs and such pre & post event. read more
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More info about Paramount Theatre-Oakland
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
Uptown
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(510) 465-6400
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http://www.paramounttheatre.com
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Ask the Community - Paramount Theatre-Oakland
Where is the best place to park? I'm going to the Trevor Noah show on Monday and trying to plan for my parking. Thank you
About two blocks away next to the Moxy hotel (across from Taco Bell). It isn't very romantic but it's metered and always available for a 7 or 8pm show.
What are the best rows for Balcony seats? Any bad seats to be avoided?
Ones right up the rails
I am a person on the larger size side. Are these seat fairly spacious?
Very tiny like basic economy. I'm small and I just fit.
Where is the best place to park on a Monday? Planning to arrive by 5 p.m. for a 7 p.m. event. Thank you!
well your surrounded there with two parking spots the one physically next to the Paramount Theater I know that place charges 20 bucks but the one across the street the garage I don't know how much that cost but If anything take the bart its way…
Review Highlights - Paramount Theatre-Oakland
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