Discover the Magic of Ashland's Paramount Arts Center: A Hub of Cultural Delight

Located in the heart of Ashland, Oregon, the Paramount Arts Center is a beloved institution that has been enchanting audiences for over 80 years. This stunning performing arts center is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage, and its legacy continues to inspire and delight visitors from far and wide. From its exquisite architecture to its world-class performances, the Paramount Arts Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Ashland's vibrant arts scene.

As one of the premier arts centers in the Pacific Northwest, the Paramount Arts Center has established itself as a hub of cultural activity in the region. With a diverse range of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs, the center offers something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned art lover, a theater enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Paramount Arts Center is the perfect place to visit.

The Paramount Arts Center's stunning architecture is a major draw for visitors. This beautiful building, which was designed in the 1920s, features a stunning lobby with high ceilings, beautifully crafted woodwork, and intricate stone carvings. The center's auditorium, which can accommodate up to 700 patrons, is equally impressive, with its ornate chandelier, elegant box seats, and excellent acoustics.

A History of Excellence

The Paramount Arts Center has a rich and varied history that spans over eight decades. From its humble beginnings as a small movie palace to its current status as a thriving arts center, the building has undergone numerous transformations over the years. One of the most significant changes came in the 1980s, when the center was renovated and expanded to include a new theater and exhibition space.

In recent years, the Paramount Arts Center has continued to evolve and improve, with a focus on providing a world-class experience for its audiences. The center has hosted a wide range of performances, including concerts, plays, and dance recitals, and has also featured a number of innovative exhibitions and installations.

A Staging Ground for the Performing Arts

The Paramount Arts Center's auditorium is one of its most prized assets, and is widely regarded as one of the best venues in the region. With its excellent acoustics and intimate seating, the auditorium provides an exceptional experience for performers and audiences alike. The center has hosted a wide range of productions over the years, from classic Broadway shows to cutting-edge contemporary works.

One of the center's most notable achievements is its commitment to providing a platform for local and regional artists. The center's TheaterWest program, which was established in 1986, provides a showcase for emerging playwrights and performers, and has helped to launch the careers of many notable talent.

Production Highlights

Some of the center's most notable productions include:

• The Full Monty: A hilarious and heartwarming musical comedy that has delighted audiences for years.
• The Secret Garden: A beautiful and moving adaptation of the classic children's book.
• Rent: A groundbreaking rock musical that has become a modern classic.

Exhibitions and Installations

In addition to its performances, the Paramount Arts Center also features a number of innovative exhibitions and installations. The center's exhibition space, which is located in the historic building's main lobby, showcases a wide range of art and artifacts, from paintings and sculptures to photography and installation art.

One of the center's most notable exhibitions was its Cezanne: The House of Bone show, which featured a collection of works by the renowned French artist Paul Cezanne. The exhibition was a major success, and helped to cement the center's reputation as a leader in the field of art exhibitions.

Featured Exhibitions

Some of the center's most notable exhibitions include:

• Cezanne: The House of Bone
• The Art of the American West
• Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Louvre

A Hub of Community Activity

The Paramount Arts Center is not just a performing arts center, but also a vibrant hub of community activity. The center's theater, which is located in the heart of downtown Ashland, is a popular venue for community events, including concerts, festivals, and charity functions.

One of the center's most notable community programs is its TheaterWest program, which provides a platform for local and regional artists to showcase their work. The program has helped to launch the careers of many notable talent, and has become a cornerstone of the center's community outreach efforts.

Community Events

Some of the center's most notable community events include:

• The Ashland Independent Film Festival
• The Summer Festival of the Arts
• The Holiday Concert Series

Education and Outreach

The Paramount Arts Center is committed to providing a wide range of educational programs and outreach initiatives, designed to engage and inspire audiences of all ages. The center's Arts in Education program, which was established in 2005, provides a range of resources and support for teachers and students, from art workshops to field trips to exhibitions.

One of the center's most notable educational initiatives is its Youth Theater program, which provides a platform for young people to develop their acting and performance skills. The program has helped to launch the careers of many talented young performers, and has become a cornerstone of the center's community outreach efforts.

Educational Programs

Some of the center's most notable educational programs include:

• Arts in Education
• Youth Theater
• Art Camps and Workshops

Dining and Shopping

In addition to its world-class performances and exhibitions, the Paramount Arts Center also offers a range of dining and shopping options. The center's lobby café, which is located in the historic building's main lobby, serves a variety of snacks and light meals, from coffee and pastries to sandwiches and salads