The Bronx’s historic Loew’s Paradise Theater, a 97-year-old landmark and one of the original five New York City “wonder theatres” will soon be returning to active service as a full Performing Arts Center. Spearheaded by a new management team that includes theatrical producer Scott Perrin, producer and theater owner Peter Martin and longtime real estate operator Charles Piazza, the new Paradise Performing Arts Center will mark its transition from a historic movie palace into a dynamic cultural institution dedicated to the Bronx community with a special press preview and community welcome event scheduled for Tuesday, November 10. The restoration is intended to return the Paradise as closely as possible to the pristine condition and grandeur of the theater when it first opened in 1929.
At 4,000 seats, The Paradise Performing Arts Center will be the second-largest theatre in New York after Radio City Music Hall, giving the Bronx a large-scale performing arts venue on the Grand Concourse, presenting live stage shows, concerts, stand-up comedy, family shows, dance, film, community and educational events. Architect John Eberson, who designed over 500 theaters considered the Paradise his crown jewel.
The Paradise is working with EverGreene Architectural Arts, whose previous restoration work includes the Loew’s Kings Theatre in Brooklyn and Loew’s Jersey Theatre. Kenn Lubin, whose work includes signage for Broadway productions, is overseeing the restoration of the theater’s historic signage, with plans to restore and relight the Paradise and Grand Concourse signs. Irwin Seating Company is working to restore the theater’s historic seating. Restoration plans also call for the restoring the original ceiling with stars and moving clouds and also include the addition of a rooftop outdoor performance stage, restaurant, bar, and gift store.
To learn more, visit paradisepac.org
