One of the Bronx’s most spectacular historic theaters is getting a new chapter. The historic Loew’s Paradise Theatre on the Grand Concourse is set to reopen as the Paradise Performing Arts Center, nearly a century after the theater first opened its doors in 1929.
The 97-year-old theater was one of New York City’s original five “wonder theatres” and is known for its elaborate interior and grand movie-palace design. Now, a new management team is working to bring the Paradise back as a performing arts venue serving the Bronx community.
The new Paradise Performing Arts Center plans to host a mix of programming, including:
- Live stage shows
- Concerts
- Stand-up comedy
- Family shows
- Dance performances
- Film
- Community events
- Educational programs
With approximately 4,000 seats, the venue says it will be the second-largest theater in New York City after Radio City Music Hall. And the plans go beyond performances. The restoration includes work on the theater’s historic seating, signage and ornate interiors, including plans to restore its original ceiling featuring stars and moving clouds. There are also plans for a rooftop outdoor performance stage, restaurant, bar and gift shop.
Bringing it back
The Paradise opened on the Grand Concourse in 1929 and was designed by architect John Eberson, who designed hundreds of theaters and considered the Paradise his crown jewel. The restoration team includes EverGreene Architectural Arts, which has worked on restorations including Brooklyn’s Loew’s Kings Theatre, as well as specialists working on the theater’s historic signage and seating. The goal is to restore the theater as closely as possible to its original grandeur while giving it a new purpose as a cultural and community space.
The center’s mission includes expanding access to the arts and presenting artists and performers who reflect the diversity of the Bronx. “We’re going to profoundly impact countless young people in The Bronx by giving them access to arts and culture in their neighborhood,” said Paradise Performing Arts Center Executive Director Scott Perrin.
For Bronx families, the reopening could eventually mean another major venue right here in the borough for concerts, performances, movies, family programming and cultural events. The Paradise’s ornate lobby is also currently available for weddings, corporate events and photo and video shoots.
The Paradise Performing Arts Center has a special press preview and community welcome event scheduled for Tuesday, November 10. We will be sure to share information about the event when it is available. Learn more.