A! Magazine for the Arts

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Paramount is an example of the art deco motion picture palaces built in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Paramount is an example of the art deco motion picture palaces built in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Paramount Center Receives Funds from Food City Race Night

December 13, 2009

BRISTOL, TN -- Bristol's Paramount Center for the Arts recently received more than $20,000 from Food City Family Race Night proceeds.

"It is a tremendous honor to have been chosen by Food City to benefit from the Family Race Night in Downtown Bristol. Food City has been an extraordinary supporter of many significant projects in Downtown Bristol in the past. This gift will aid the Paramount in maintenance and operation of the historic theatre, and we are most grateful for this generous support," said Merle Dickert, Executive Director of the Paramount.

She continued, "We are extremely grateful for the many volunteers who gave their time and warm welcome to the thousands of visitors to Bristol this past August. Volunteers are a valued asset. They are the backbone of any community event, and certainly of the Food City Family Race Night."

As a 501(c)3 organization, the Paramount must rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses in order to continue. Ticket revenues account for only one-fifth of the overall operating budget for the Paramount and, therefore, donations and fund-raising are critical to the bottom line. The Paramount presents a season of professional, touring productions, enabling the theatre to offer its audience season ticket subscriptions. Corporate sponsorships enable the Paramount to keep admission prices affordable for audiences.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Paramount is an excellent example of the art deco motion picture palaces built in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The restoration, completed in spring of 1991, retained the Paramount's opulent, richly embellished interior. The original Venetian-styled murals and the art deco ambience were faithfully recreated. You'll feel as though you are a part of the performance from any one of the 750 seats.

The Paramount has been a supporting partner in the region for 18 years, creating solid relationships with patrons, nurturing young artists, promoting the events of other non-profit organizations, and presenting extraordinary entertainment and educational opportunities for people of every age.

The Paramount showcases great performances -- both classic and contemporary -- in music, dance and drama, featuring outstanding presentations by a wealth of regional artists and organizations.

The mission of the Paramount Center is to enhance the quality of life for the people of our region by providing a variety of arts and services which will educate and entertain...regardless of ethnic background, age or income level.

Visit www.theparamountcenter.com for more about the arts center.

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