The Paramount Arts Center

Craftsmen from Paramount contributed the exquisite interior furnishings, while the theater was leased to Paramount Publix Corporation. Though the original design by renowned architects Rapp and Rapp was scaled back by one-third due to the Depression, the Paramount’s stunning art deco style still shines through, offering a glimpse of what could have been had the venue been built to its full scale.

Today, the Paramount Arts Center remains a treasured cultural landmark in Eastern Kentucky. With a rich history that spans from early cinema to live music, theater, and performances, it continues to be a vibrant part of the region’s artistic legacy.

As a stop on the Kentucky Music Trail, the Paramount Arts Center stands as a symbol of resilience and creative spirit. Whether you’re enjoying a live show, taking in the theater’s timeless beauty, or imagining the films that first graced its screen, this historic venue connects the past with the present in unforgettable ways.

Events

Upcoming Events

From national headliners to impromptu jam sessions, there’s always live music in the air in Kentucky. See what’s on stage during your exploration of the Kentucky Music Trail.

Keith Whitley Memorial Statue

Keith Whitley Memorial Statue

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Poppy Mountain Music Festival

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Country Music Highway Mural

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Jerusalem Ridge (Bill Monroe Homeplace)

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Mountain Arts Center

Mountain Arts Center

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Lexington Opera House

Lexington Opera House

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Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

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Jug Band Pioneer Earl McDonald in Louisville

Jug Band Pioneer Earl McDonald in Louisville

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Rosemary Clooney House

Rosemary Clooney House

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Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

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Digital Passport

Rewarding YourLove of Music

Track your travels along the Kentucky Music Trail with the free passport app. Simply visit participating sites to collect “check-ins”—the more milestones you reach, the more giveaways you could qualify for including concert tickets and VIP merch.