Paramount Key to Downtown Rebirth

We have always viewed downtown Springfield as a place that can compete with most other major cities when it comes to entertainment.

As the unofficial capital of Western Massachusetts, Springfield needs to attract music and arts patrons with top-notch performers and venues. Many great efforts have been made along these lines over the years, from the revamping of the Civic Center into the MassMutual Center to the build-up of a corridor along Stearns Square. But we feel that the centerpiece to this smorgasbord of entertainment is, and has been for years, The Paramount.

The long history of the Paramount (later the Julia Sanderson Theater, then The Paramount again, then The Hippodrome) includes many impressive performers. We'll detail them in an upcoming post, but a short list includes such artistic luminaries as Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Nat King Cole and The Velvet Underground--quite the diverse mix!

The Paramount also is unique in that it fills a void between the normal-sized nightclubs and the vastness of the MassMutual Center. Many events that are too large for the former and too small for the latter (such as a large wedding party; see photos below) fit perfectly into The Paramount. It's also the perfect size for great bands such as Ireland's Saw Doctors, who have said it's one of
their favorite places to play.

The Staff has always taken pride in the special events that have taken place at the Theater. The unique opportunity exists to utilize the Paramount's production capabilities and incorporate them into a function or parties theme.
The Paramount has hosted, Weddings, Corporate functions, Proms, and Holiday Parties to name a few. Weddings typically feature a live band and DJ, The Wedding pictured on the right utilized a DJ and a troupe of Cirque Du Soleil Performers.