HJ5255: Commending the Paramount Theater.
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5255
WHEREAS, in 2014, the Paramount Theater, a restored, historic performing arts center in downtown Charlottesville, celebrates 10 years of service to the community since its reopening in 2004; and
WHEREAS, originally opened in 1931, the Paramount Theater thrived during the Golden Age of American cinema and provided Charlottesville residents with a refined movie-going experience; for four decades, the theater delighted audiences with countless films, war bond drives, fashion shows, cartoons, and rock and roll concerts; and
WHEREAS, with its Greek revival facade and octagonal, neoclassical interior, the Paramount Theater paid homage to Thomas Jefferson and reflected Virginia’s architectural heritage, quickly becoming a landmark in Charlottesville; and
WHEREAS, after the Paramount Theater closed in 1974, concerned citizens immediately launched efforts to protect and preserve the historic building; in 1992, the nonprofit Paramount Theater, Inc., purchased the building and restored the Main Street marquee; and
WHEREAS, following a major restoration and expansion project, which included the construction of a modified loft, backstage areas, an orchestra pit, a computerized box office, a ballroom, a rehearsal room, and meeting spaces, the Paramount Theater reopened on December 15, 2004, as a regional performing arts center; and
WHEREAS, from 2004 to 2014, the Paramount Theater assisted in the ongoing revitalization of downtown Charlottesville by offering a wide range of artistic, educational, and entertainment events; and
WHEREAS, the Paramount Theater also serves the community by presenting educational programs in local schools and making facilities and resources available to charitable, arts, and service organizations for performances and events; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Paramount Theater for its cultural contributions to the Charlottesville community on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of its reopening in 2004; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Paramount Theater of Charlottesville, Inc., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for the Paramount Theater’s storied history and best wishes on continued success.