OLLI at TTU, Abilene The Historic Paramount Theatre

By Misha Price, OLLI at TTU, Abilene, Coordinator

In January the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Texas Tech University, Abilene had the distinct pleasure of sponsoring the movie, "West Side Story" at the Historic Paramount Theatre in Abilene. The OLLI name alongside the title of the movie on the marquee was amazing to see as the sun set, and the marquee lights lit up the words.

Along with having the OLLI name on the marquee, the sponsorship allowed OLLI to set up space in the lobby to speak to theatre guests and pass out spring course catalogs. OLLI was also shown as a sponsor on-screen before all movie screenings. In addition, movie goers could stop by the OLLI table to enter a drawing for two free movie tickets to any movie at the Paramount and a one-year membership to OLLI. Many patrons stopped at the table to hear about a program that caters to lifelong learners. While the requirements are that members be 50 or older to participate in OLLI, the drawing was open to all ages, and the OLLI staff and volunteers talked to anyone who was interested. Here guests were able to ask questions of OLLI Coordinator, Misha Price and hear from OLLI members about all the benefits they receive from joining. The volunteers, OLLI members Barbara and Max Shaw as well as Susan Robinson, were on hand ready for any question that came their way.

Built in 1930, the Paramount Theatre hosts a variety of entertainment including plays, concerts, ballets and movies. With the help of a new owner and the Abilene Preservation league, this beautiful building was restored to its original glory and put on a register of historic landmarks. Saved from what would have been the biggest mistake since closing its doors in the mid 1970s, the grand ole theatre reopened its doors in 1987. In the meticulous attention to detail of the original construction, the auditorium showcases its beauty in not only the Spanish-styled décor but also in the beautifully painted ceiling. If patrons look up while the lights are dim, they will undoubtedly notice the moving clouds and twinkling stars above. The theatre still sells popcorn and goodies in the concession located downstairs,an ingenious idea, as the smell of the popcorn makes its way up into the lobby and auditorium enticing movie goers to venture down and make a purchase. Once ready to find a seat, patrons have the choice of sitting in the auditorium or the beautiful balcony.

OLLI's involvement does not stop with sponsorship of the film series. The Paramount holds classes and special screenings for OLLI members throughout the year. In March the OLLI course "Now Playing..." allowed OLLI members the opportunity to screen the documentary on the Paramount, followed by a tour of the beautiful building. Members saw the ins and outs of the stage and learned a bit about the state-of-the-art equipment the Paramount now features. George Levesque, director of the Paramount, stated, "This is a good fit, the Paramount and OLLI. It just makes sense." OLLI feels the same about the Paramount. It is a good fit together and OLLI is looking forward to more events and adventures with this amazing venue.