Brooklyn's Historic Paramount Theater Set To Reopen In March

BROOKLYN, NY — The long-awaited Brooklyn Paramount, which underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment, is set to open in March, Live Nation announced Thursday.

The redesign pays homage to the building's nearly 100-year heritage while introducing a new 2,700-capacity performance venue that will help bring more shows to Brooklyn's thriving music scene.

Newly revealed images of the 1928 Fort Greene theater, which has been closed for decades, depict an impressively-restored, 1920s-style interior.

“The reopening of the historic Brooklyn Paramount is the latest sign that Brooklyn’s art scene is thriving,” Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said. "This reopening demonstrates that New York City does not need to reinvent the wheel to bring entertainment and good-paying jobs to our city. I am glad to see the Brooklyn Paramount back, and I look forward to seeing a performance there in the future!"

The reopening of the Brooklyn Paramount provides an opportunity for today's musicians to perform in a venue that introduced jazz to the neighborhood and served as an early home for rock n roll.

Originally referred to as "America’s first movie theater built for sound," the iconic venue has featured music legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, Duke Ellington and Frank Sinatra.

Over 45 shows, featuring artists such as PinkPantheress, Norah Jones, Mariah The Scientist and Brooklyn native Busta Rhymes, are now on sale at the 385 Flatbush Avenue theater, with additional acts to be announced in the coming weeks.

Renovations were created with musicians in mind, and the venue will now have a large stage as well as a cutting-edge backstage facility that includes a game area, gym, and art pieces by local artists, according to Live Nation.

The revamped layout features a sloped floor to provide optimal viewing for all attendees, seven bars for efficient service, and a selection of vintage liqueurs alongside a zero-proof menu.

Additionally, the second-floor balcony has been transformed to include exclusive member boxes and Ella's VIP lounge, paying homage to Fitzgerald's intimate 1950s performances.

In addition to music, the new theater will bring around 250 jobs to the local community. A job fair is set for Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Feb. 25 from 3 to 7 p.m., a company spokesperson told Brownstoner.

A special agreement with Long Island University will also help future leaders get a start in the music industry by providing students with internships and part-time jobs.

Long Island University President Kimberly R. Cline stated that the reopening and restoration of the historic Paramount Theater strategically places Long Island University at the center of New York's economic growth and demonstrates the university's commitment to the arts.