When the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the Paramount in 1972 it was a run down building with an amazing history. Two blocks from The Fox, The Paramount opened in 1931, with many doubting that Downtown Oakland could support two theaters so close to each other. It soon became an ode to Art Deco and after an authentic remodel in 1973 the building was declared a National Historic Landmark. As one of the San Francisco Bay Area's premiere performing arts facilities, the Paramount hosts a year-round schedule of popular music concerts, variety shows, theatre, and - of course – movies. This spectacular art deco performing arts venue, built in 1931 is home to the Oakland Ballet and Symphony as well as regularly hosting R&B, jazz, blues, pop, rock, gospel, comedy, plays, lectures and screenings of classic films throughout the year.