The Paramount Theatre in Anderson, Indiana, is one of only a few surviving atmospheric theaters left in the United States.

What is an "atmospheric theater?"

Atmospheric theaters, popular in the 1920s, are, according to Wikipedia, "... theaters designed and decorated to evoke the feeling of a particular time and place for patrons, through the use of projectors, architectural elements and ornamentation that evoked a sense of being outdoors."

At one time there were 155 of these threaters throught the united states, but today there are belived to be only 12 remaining. 

The Paramount was designed to give the illusion of a Spanish courtyard at night. Its lush interior is filled with statues, iron gates, and elaborate details one would find in a real Spanish courtyard.

The illusion of an outdoor location is enhanced by a ceiling painted with a night sky full of twinkling stars. Projected clouds move across the ceiling to complete the illusion.

The Paramount opened in 1929, flourished for a number of years, and then entered a period of decline. In 1989, it was saved from demolition with an heroic 11th hour intervention by Anderson lawyer, Leslie Davisson, who inspired a local group, now known as the Paramount Heritage Foundation, Inc., to begin efforts to save the Paramount. 

A a meticulously renovated Paramount Theatre re-opened in 1995. Restored to its orginal grandure, the theatre is a showcase of fine detail and Art Deco design. 

Today, the Paramount is a prominent gem of the Anderson Downtown Historic District. It offers a full calendar of events including concerts, dance, theater, and movies. Silent films, such as The General staring Buston Keaton, feature live accompaniment on the theater's rare Page Organ.

To learn more about the historic Paramount, upcoming events, and ways to support the theater through donations, visit The Paramount Theatre Centre & Ballroom web site.