The Paramount Theatre begins $6 million renovation

Totaling more than 60,000 square feet across two buildings on Center Street in downtown Rutland, the Paramount Theatre has begun a significant renovation and expansion into the adjacent Richardson Building. Expansion includes a 4,000 square foot, multiuse venue on the fourth floor of The Richardson Building. 

“Taking advantage of its top floor position, sweeping views, framed by the Taconic and Green Mountain ranges, will make this space the go-to venue for gatherings of various sizes; its use will be limited only by imagination,” the theatre said in a news release Aug. 1. “With a new commercial kitchen and dining capacity for 150 (250 when not set up for meal service), this community venue will be available for use by the public in addition to regularly hosting an expanded schedule of performances curated by The Paramount.”

An additional 4,000 square feet space will also be renovated one floor below. Floor three of The Richardson will feature multiple private suites — each one flexible in size and capable of hosting as many as 50 guests. 

“Whether in use pre-show for private gatherings or connected to events taking place one floor above, these breakout spaces on The Suite Level have uses as diverse as the individual user desires,” the theatre wrote.

Additional upgrades include expanded lobbies, larger concession services, a dramatic increase in the number of restroom facilities across all levels, and the installation of an energy efficient HVAC delivery system.

The Paramount has raised 75% of the funding required to see this $6 million through to its completion.

“Thanks to the generosity of the community including major employers in addition to many other Rutland stakeholders including several local families and small-businesses,” the release continued. “In addition to investments made by local partners, including The City of Rutland, this project has earned the support of the State of Vermont and the Northern Borders Regional Commission.”

The Paramount Theatre’s main stage operations will not be impacted during the construction period. The timeline for full project completion is three years, with the ground floor work finished in the first 12 to 18 months. Russel Construction, with deep roots in Rutland, has been contracted for the work. 

“This project dovetails seamlessly with the organization’s 24-year mission centered in enriching the lives of those here our community. When completed, the ‘Jewel of Downtown Rutland’ will shine brighter than ever before, enhancing the pride Rutland already has in this magical space,” commented Eric Mallette, the Paramount’s executive director. “The ripple effect on the local economy created by increased usage will grow to an estimated $3.5 million from the already impactful $2 million the organization has now.”

The Paramount Theatre is a nationally recognized Landmark Theatre with a current capacity of 830 patrons that was built in 1914 and renovated in 1999. Paramount Center, Inc is a federally recognized 501c3 not-for-profit organization.

For more information visit: ParamountVT.org.