For nearly 78 years, the Paramount Theatre Centre has inspired with its architecture, entertainment, and history. Thanks to a local benefactor with an appreciation of history, the beautiful theater is about to shine as brightly on the outside as the stars do inside.

When the Paramount Theatre opened its doors in 1929, it competed with six other movie theaters along Meridian Street: Riviera, Starland, Ritz, Regent, Kay-Bee, and Crystal. However, the Paramount separated itself from each theater in Anderson because of its “ “mystic beauty of medieval Europe” ” as quoted in a 1929 article in The Herald.

Not only did the opulent décor of the Paramount distinguish itself from the neighboring theatres, but the 36 foot tall Paramount blade marquee became a familiar sight in downtown Anderson. However, in the early 1970s the vertical blade was removed due to structural deterioration.

Now over 30 years later, a generous donor has taken on the project and funded the reinstallation of a replica of the original blade marquee. Dr. Phillip Shirley, retired Veterinarian and resident of Pendleton, served on the Board of Directors at the Paramount during restoration of the facility. “It is indeed my privilege to bring back a historical presence to the Paramount and to downtown Anderson,” said Shirley. “I believe the new marquee will be illustrative of the original splendor of the 1929 grand opening. Once again the vertical blade marquee will make a big, bold, beautiful signature statement for the Paramount and for Meridian Street.”

Continue reading about the Paramount Theatre history