Paramount Theatre announces diverse season schedule

Comedian Frank Caliendo, blues legend B.B. King and country singer Clint Black soon will be in your own backyard.

All three entertainers are set to perform in the upcoming 2009 season at the Aurora-based Paramount Theatre. Current season subscribers can buy tickets now while the public can buy beginning July 28.

Additional highlights of the season include comedian and actress Lily Tomlin, musician Ani DiFranco, country singer Kenny Rogers and the Broadway productions of "The Drowsy Chaperone" and "The Wizard of Oz."

"It's a real diverse season this year, which I'm glad to see," said Melissa Mercado, marketing manager for the Paramount. "There's something for everyone."

When choosing the talent for the stage, Executive Director Diana Martinez said she looks for quality, diversity, audience appeal and relevancy.

"I think it's a nice opportunity to see what other people are doing in the world," she said.

Not only does the theater aim to bring "world-class" entertainment to the Paramount, but Martinez said it also "strives to be more than just a venue where people see shows."

The theater is offering new programs and perks to give patrons a special experience beyond seeing a show in a remodeled theater that hearkens back 1930s-era poshness, said Richard Hawks, chairman of the Paramount Theatre's board of directors. For holiday performances, patrons will receive chocolate hearts for Valentine's Day and flowers on Mother's Day. Before the production of "The Wizard of Oz," families will be able to enjoy an Emerald City tea party for $15 per person.

Subscribers who attend eight or more shows will receive additional perks including an invitation to the Season Kick Off Party, meet-and-greets with the cast of "The Drowsy Chaperon" and "The Wedding Singer" and access to the new VIP Lounge.

For information, visit ParamountAurora.com or call (630) 896-6666.

"We have made it - and continue to make it - the best we can," Hawks said.

<p class="factboxheadblack">Ticket information </p> <p class="News">Tickets prices for shows at the Paramount Theatre vary and can be purchased by phone, via Ticket Master or at the box office beginning Tuesday, July 28. </p> <p class="News">Tickets On Sale Parties will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 25 for new subscribers and 1 to 3 p.m. for single shows at the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. The party will include free prizes and give-aways every 15 minutes and free lunch. There will be no service charges during the party and purchases must be at the box office on that day.</p> <p class="News">For information, visit <a href="http://www.ParamountAurora.com" target="new">ParamountAurora.com</a> or call (630) 896-6666.</p>