Paramount (Huntington, New York)

Paramount (Huntington, New York) is a major performing arts center located in Huntington, Long Island. Opened in 2011, it occupies the historically significant former site of the Huntington Theater, revitalizing a key downtown cultural venue. The facility is owned by the Town of Huntington and operated by the non-profit Paramount Hudson Valley Arts, presenting a diverse array of music, comedy, theater, and community events. With a capacity of 1,555, it serves as a premier entertainment destination in Suffolk County.

History

The venue's history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the original Huntington Theater, a beloved Art Deco movie palace that opened in 1927 and served the community for decades before closing in 1987. Following a prolonged period of vacancy and decline, a major redevelopment initiative was championed by the Town of Huntington under the leadership of then-Supervisor Frank Petrone. The project involved a public-private partnership and significant investment to transform the dilapidated site. The new venue, designed by the renowned architecture firm Beyer Blinder Belle, officially opened its doors on September 30, 2011, with a celebratory performance, marking a renaissance for the arts in downtown Huntington.

Architecture and design

The architecture of the Paramount represents a careful synthesis of historic preservation and modern functionality. The design by Beyer Blinder Belle respectfully incorporates elements reminiscent of the original theater's Art Deco heritage while creating a state-of-the-art performance space. The interior features a classic proscenium stage and sophisticated acoustics engineered for optimal sound quality across various genres. The venue's facade and marquee on New York Avenue have become a recognizable landmark, contributing to the streetscape and economic vitality of downtown Huntington. The design prioritizes both audience comfort and performer needs, with excellent sightlines and modern backstage facilities.

Notable events and performances

Since its opening, the Paramount has hosted a wide spectrum of notable artists and events, establishing itself as a key stop on the Long Island entertainment circuit. The stage has welcomed legendary musical acts such as Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Cyndi Lauper, and The Doobie Brothers. It regularly features prominent comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan, and Kevin James. The programming also includes Broadway-style theatrical productions, family shows, and tributes to iconic figures like The Beatles and Billy Joel. The venue's annual event calendar often highlights performances during holidays and community celebrations, solidifying its role as a central gathering place.

Cultural impact and legacy

The Paramount has had a profound cultural and economic impact on the Town of Huntington and the broader region. Its success is credited with spurring significant revitalization in downtown Huntington, attracting patrons to local restaurants and businesses. As a non-profit entity operated by Paramount Hudson Valley Arts, it fulfills an educational mission through outreach programs, masterclasses, and school performances. The venue has become an indispensable part of the cultural fabric of Long Island, providing a mid-sized, acoustically superior alternative to larger venues in New York City and Nassau County. It preserves the historic legacy of community theater-going while adapting to contemporary entertainment demands.

Management and operations

The Paramount is owned by the Town of Huntington and operated under a management agreement by the non-profit organization Paramount Hudson Valley Arts. This structure ensures the venue's primary focus is on cultural programming and community service rather than purely commercial interests. Day-to-day operations encompass booking, marketing, front-of-house services, and facility maintenance. The venue partners with presenting entities like Live Nation and MSG Entertainment for certain tours. Financial sustainability is achieved through ticket revenue, rental fees for private events, sponsorships from corporations like Bank of America, and donations from members of the community, supported by the advocacy of local figures such as Steve Israel.

Category:Theatres in New York (state) Category:Music venues in New York (state) Category:Buildings and structures in Huntington, New York Category:2011 establishments in New York (state)