I came here last night to see The Maltese Falcon (based on the book by the excellent Dashiell Hammett). I had no idea how popular this would be! There was barely an empty seat. The mixed aged crowd was really into the whole experience which included the organ playing, wheel spin for prizes from local businesses, and fun cartoons and old movie previews. It was a fun, unique way to spend an evening. read more

See all

We had the pleasure of taking in Ms. Jill Scott! She put on an excellent show. From start to finish, we got our money's worth. The acoustics were on point, band was in sync & the background vocalists were in tune. All Jill had to do was open up and sang! And did!!! I didn't like people standing up blocking views. It almost ruined the show. Nothing wrong w/enjoying yourself but be respectful/mindful to everyone around you. There were no phones or smart glasses allowed. I get it but I think it's overkill to a certain degree. If you say no phones, stand on it at the start of the show & just escort people out that don't comply. The refreshment prices were ridiculous! I paid almost $60 for two cocktails, a can of water & a box of candy. Lesson learned, if you know what I mean... We had a blast & blew some cash... #GoSee read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

This the best and most ornate theater in the Bay Area. It was originally opened in 1931 as a grand movie palace (yes Palace!). The Art Deco Decor is everywhere, on every surface, with unique patented ceilings, gold leaf everywhere, art carved into the walls, period furniture, carpets, light fixtures, and a Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ (which can reproduce the sounds of a symphony orchestra, including percussion). Wandering around the theater looking at the hundreds of artistic elements in the decor is worth the price of admission. I have been here many times over the decades and each time I am in awe of the decor. You don't get tired of it. There is so much to see you can't see it all in many visits. I was here on Friday 17 July 2026 for a performance of the 1920 movie "The Mark of Zorro" with Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. This silent movie was accompanied by Mark Herman playing the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Not only was the original Zorro (all the other Zorro movies are remakes of this one) movie very good, the music was fantastic. I was seated in the center of the balcony in the second row, perfect for the full sound experience of the mighty organ (whose pipes are level with the balcony on both the left and right walls just in front of the state). You can feel the music as well as hear it. (I did say the organ was Mighty!). This showing was part of the Paramount's summer classic movie series every Friday night. Get there at 6pm to explore the theater. Then there is a half hour concert of theater organ music, then the Cartoon Short (it was Tom and Jerry on this day). Then follows a prize drawing (Deco-Win) where based on the numbers drawn that match your ticket stub, you can win prizes. Then the movie follows. Everything here is perfect except one thing. The prices at the snack bar. There is a mandatory 20% service change and sales tax applied after the high menu prices. I had a cognac and some caramel corn and it cost about $32!!!. The price of the movie ticket was only $10. The theater is only a half a block from the BART 19th station (20th street exit), so BART is the best way to get to the theater. read more

See all

1/2 (3.5 Stars) I had the opportunity to visit the Paramount Theatre while I was in Oakland visiting my best friend, and we had a wonderful time. The theater itself is absolutely beautiful and full of historic charm. You can definitely appreciate the craftsmanship and character of a venue that's been around for decades. My only challenge was accessibility. Because I require ADA accommodations, I found that there were quite a few stairs throughout the theater, and even the parking area involved navigating steps. I understand this is a historic building from the 1930s, so I know there are limitations, but I hope they continue looking for ways to improve accessibility wherever possible. What really made the experience positive was the staff. Everyone was incredibly kind, patient, and accommodating. No one rushed me as I made my way up the stairs, and they treated me with genuine courtesy throughout the evening. Overall, despite the accessibility challenges, we truly enjoyed the concert and had a great experience. The outstanding customer service made a big difference, and I'd certainly consider returning. read more

The box office set up and location is chaotic. I love the seats though. Not too far away from the stage, wherever you sit. My friend ordered a double shot of titos and when the total popped up there, I was flabbergasted. $42 for one drink and a $6 service fee. Im not encouraging you to pack your own liquor but when it rang up to more than a Sam's club 750 ml. Maaaan. So never buying liquor here. I will enjoy a show and go on my way. Please stay away from any flirtatious security guards here too lol. I'll just leave it at that, people are really crazy these days. Anyway.. enjoyed the show on the evening I attended. read more

See all

Gorgeous venue with that old school charm. Came to see the 112 tour. Sound was good and seats were comfortable. read more

See all

This is a really lovely, historic old theatre. I've been here a handful of times. Most recently, I came for a comedy show. The theatre is ornate! Look up at the ceiling, and around at the walls. Head up the curving staircase! Snap a photo of the marquee and the tall neon sign. The building is opulent! It's very close to BART, so it makes transportation to the venue a breeze. Avoid driving or you're likely to get your car broken into like I did when I came to a Yelp Elite Event nearby. :( Also, take note, they have a very strict no outside food or drinks policy. I had a very tiny purse, and I had a small package of crackers from Colombia my friend had just gifted me, and the staff took them off me! I also had a chomp stick and a package of roasted chestnuts. (I hadn't had dinner and was worried we wouldn't have time to eat before the show, so I packed a couple of tiny snacks in my bag). The door person was super nice and she said she'd hold them for me until after the show. Unfortunately, after the show, she went to get them from the locked ticket booth and someone took them! So a fellow staff member snatched my snacks. That's pretty messed up. I mean, I should have looked up the policy before I attended, but it's also pretty messed up that a staff member took my stuff after they were being held for me. The staff member said she had it with her own stuff; she was very surprised that they went missing as well. Other than the snack snafu, the seats were very comfortable and the pitch between the seats is generous! There was so much leg room! Plus, I didn't feel cramped at the shoulders. This is such a rarity for a theater and deserves mentioning! There are bathrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Overall, this is a great venue with a convenient BART accessible location! I'll be back. read more

See all

Just visited the Paramount for the first time and I'm still kind of in awe! Honestly, I don't know how I've lived in the Bay Area this long without checking this place out. The theater is absolutely gorgeous like, old Hollywood gorgeous. The Art Deco details are insane. I found myself just staring at the ceiling and the light fixtures instead of finding my seat. Sound quality was great, seats were comfy enough, and the staff were nice. The building itself is the star of the show. read more

See all

I attended a graduation at the Paramount. The building is historic and should be preserved for its beauty. , The decor and fixtures are so beautiful, from the entrance, throughout the building into the theater. The seats definitely need to be restored though. I was literally sitting on the metal rails because the cushions were so worn. It was hurting and I couldn't balance myself in my seat. I wanted to switch with my daughter but she said her seat was just as bad. read more

See all

Security is rude asf wouldn't even bother to tell me where the bathroom was. Looked me dead in my eyes and said nothing. What the hell...?

Such a gorgeous venue! We were privileged to attend a citizenship swearing in ceremony here last week. The setting was stunning, and quite appropriate for celebrating our newest citizens. What a treat to sit in the balcony and take in all the visual art deco masterful design elements while waiting for the event to begin. The ceilings, especially, are something special to behold. I heard someone say that the theater had been refurbished at great expense. The results were amazing. It's important to preserve the historical design legacy of such a unique venue. The acoustics were terrific, as well. It would be a wonderful treat to attend a concert or other performance here. Parking was just a short walk away, though not inexpensive at $30 for this particular event. read more

See all

First time at this venue, came to see Keith Sweat and Case! It was an amazing overall experience. The only thing I would probably improve are the seats. They were kinda worn down and you can feel the metal underneath. Case and Keith Sweat were amazing! I sat four rows back from the main stage and had a great view. They're pretty strict on no re-entries if you try to leave and come back. There's also no vaping or smoking inside. I didn't get to try any food but I saw some people munching on chips with their drinks, which I'm assuming they purchased at the bar. Coming back again in a couple months for another event, and I'm looking forward to it. I got lucky with free parking outside, just a block away. Timing is everything :) read more

See all

As show venues go, logistics always is a factor. Not here. Literally 1 block from the staircase of the 19th street BART station IS The Paramount Theatre! We've seen a few shows here but never did a review. Easy to get to, genuine old school architecture, great sound, alright and expensive snacks, (show pricing) and alchemy at the bar (probably expensive too), but overall a really great experience. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this venue for any kind of show. It isn't Chase, it isn't Levi's, it's a one of a kind, precious and historic Theatre (I call it Theater but whatever). Have fun! read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Neil is here tonight!!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Always good times here. This turn around we did the tour for the holidays. There is a lot of fun history to learn from the tour. Okay you get to see some is the back rooms and backstage areas. Additionally - the design of the building and decorations are wonderful. Check it out. read more

See all

We visited this beautiful theater in December when we saw the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir perform. The acoustics could use an upgrade, but I understand that it is an older building. So it won't have the sound quality of a brand new theater. But it more than makes up for it with its stunning beauty. read more

A beautiful theatre that has stood the test of time. So glad Oakland has kept this place afloat during such times as these. I went bc of Bibi, K-Pop singer who is debuting her 1st World Tour & she chose Oakland to perform, so happy that Oakland is trying to incorporate a wider audience. The inside has been beautiful maintained. The only confusing part to these events is when they offer a Meet & Greet Swag Bag that often I notice there is no sign indicating which is a preferred swag bag line vs.ticket holders line. Also, I was quite disappointed when the usher passed by obstructing our view not just once,twice, three times but at least 5-6 times. Either allowing late comers to pass by all throughout Bibi's performance or either feeling the need to just walk by. My patience was running thin with this occurrence. Other than this issue, it was nice to be in this iconic Oakland theatre that has stood the test of time. read more

See all

The wife and I visited The Paramount for the first time, to hear "Two Black Churches" and Carmina Burana. Odd pairing, but it made sense for this election week. Anyway, the acoustics were quite reasonable for our perch in the front balcony section, left. The place is very cavernous, but we could see the stage fine. There didn't appear to be any partially blocked seats, since there were no interior columns. What an incredible space! Absolutely gorgeous art deco interior, from the central lobby area, to the upstairs lounge areas, to the magnificent auditorium. It looked brand new condition. The last restoration, according to one usher, was about 1971, and they just keep it in perfect condition all the time. Come see a show, and be awed. read more

See all

My friend had her graduation ceremony here. It's not close to home, but easy to find. They have their own parking lot, plus there's a parking garage next to the theater. The employees were so friendly and helpful. Moreover, the bathrooms are beautiful. I had to take a picture. Lol read more

See all

Great theater! Surprisingly this theater is pretty spacey. Came here for the Matt Rife show this past weekend and it was a great experience. Once you go in there's two bars down stairs with small snacks & drinks - beer, cider, etc - popcorn, chips, candy Wish they had fresh popcorn.. but nevertheless, a pretty cool theater! read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

Came to the Paramount Theatre to see Theo Von: Return of the Rat. The theater looks very beautiful inside. We got balcony seats and they are tiny. The acoustics weren't great, lots of echoes. I probably missed 30% of the show due to not being able to hear him. If you are gonna come here I would recommend getting a closer seat. The security was working hard and did an amazing job. Quick and safe security check when you enter the building. We had very loud drunk men two rows behind us who were very talkative and one of the security guys got them completely under control. It did take him a couple of tries to calm them down but in the end, it all worked out. 3.5 stars just because of the balcony seats, but I would love to come back. read more

See all

We've traveled from Sacramento to Paramount Oakland several times to see different performers, including Kevin Hart and, more recently, the All-Star Comedy Jam on Valentine's Day. The venue itself is beautiful, with its classic architecture and multiple bars, making it fairly easy to grab a drink despite the long lines (usually within 10-15 minutes). One thing we did notice was a stark difference in the crowds depending on the event. The Kevin Hart audience felt more diverse and mature, while the All-Star Comedy Jam had a much rowdier vibe--including a fight that security handled quickly, though we didn't see much security presence beforehand. The biggest downside for me is the restroom accessibility. As someone who struggles with stairs, I wish they were easier to access. Overall, it's a great venue, but the experience depends largely on the event you attend. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

The three stars are not for the venue. I'm giving three stars because during the concert, no one was taking care of the isles. Folks were standing and dancing out of their seats in the isles. Vaping Marijuana was relentless. Folks sitting on front of me with the hats with lights, which made it hard to see and enjoy the concert. The last artist didn't finish his set as the lights came on. Everyone got up and started walking out. I. Come to the paramount often for concerts this was the first one that was not managed properly. For sure I'll come back for other concerts but this event could have used mire care. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Blues tour - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

It was my first time last night going to the Paramount Theatre! I'm surprised I haven't heard of it before but it's a very nice theatre for a concert! There are only seats which is nice since you don't have to line up early to reserve your spot. Audio is great all around and the staff is super friendly. There is parking areas all around and street parking (park with caution!) read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Inside - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

What a beautiful venue. Came here for Hip Hop Nutcracker and had a great time. They have a small parking lot but we just parked nearby for free. It is near Bart and a bunch of food and bars so you won't be starved. The theater itself has a full bar and snacks too and bathroom is nicely decorated downstairs. The seats are old but comfortable. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - the ceiling of the lobby - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

They were very organized and really helpful with finding your seats. I would come here again for another show!

Look I get that it takes a tight ship to run things smoothly but a little customer service skills wouldn't kill ya'll. No phones even before the show is ridiculous nobody is even on stage and shining a bright ass light in my eyes and yelling at me for texting well over half an hour before shit starts is unprofessional. Also only four bathrooms?? Seriously??? I get that the building is historical and trust me it's gorgeous around here but some amenities need serious updating. read more

Great venue, beautiful artwork on the wall. I went for the Eric Benet, Music Soulchild & Joe concert on 3.21.25. Great time, had lower level seats, the concessions were reasonably priced and the staff were very pleasant and helpful. Looking forward to the next event there! read more

We were here in the past month for a show. Although we arrived ~45 minutes before showtime, we only had time to use the restrooms as all of the lines were extremely long. The bar lines were around the corners, seemingly because one bartender was working each bar. For such a large venue, this was surprising. The nearby Fox Theater is able to work through lines very quickly and seems better staffed. The merch lines were also extremely long, but I've come to expect that at shows, and I recognize that merch lines are typically manned by the artist's staff. The (few) staff we encountered were friendly and helpful. The venue itself is beautiful. I love that they have preserved it, down to the chair that look, and feel, original. read more

We went to see Louis CK here and it was great. There was plentiful flat-fee parking across the street, really good food vendors on every corner, and a quick and safe entry process. The decor is very 1920s, think The Shining. The bathrooms were definitely not a priority and felt more like a high school bathroom. Overall it was a beautiful theater where everyone got a great vantage point. I would definitely see another show there. read more

See all

What a cool venue! Came here for the first time to see Matt Rife and was impressed! Parking garage was close, right across the street, you pay by app. Outdoor staff kept the lines in order and moving. Security checks upon entering were efficient. Inside decor was grand and had a historic vibe. They had bars & restrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Easy to find our seats upon entering the theatre. Love the small feel atmosphere, made it easy to follow along with his crowd work. Overall neat place and glad I got to experience it! read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

First time here to see Matt Rife. Everything went smooth from check in time . They did a great job making lines move fast. Multiple bars . I love the old vintage feel of the bathrooms ,and just the place in general . Had a great time ! read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

I went to see the amazing Trevor Noah at the Paramount theater . I had a wonderful time. The theater is beautiful. There are a few nearby places to grab a bite within 3-5 minutes walking distance from the theatre. I recommend Agave Uptown ... 3 min walk away. Reservations highly recommended. The big question ...PARKING. ... the theater has a small parking lot right next to the theater entrance for a flat fee. However, immediate across the street the City of Oakland has a parking structure ... you pay using the Park Mobile app. So in reality parking is not an issue. Enjoy your visit! read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Many years ago I had joined the paramount guided walking tour of their art deco building. They have since resumed those tours some Saturdays and I would highly recommend attending if you enjoy architect, sightseeing, unique buildings, walking, art, etc.. Today I was here for the 7:30pm Tina fey and Amy Poehler comedy show with 5 friends. We showed up at 6:40pm and the line was around the corner. They had just opened the doors and people were shuffling in one by one through the security gates. Luckily for us, a man directed us to a second line people were not aware of and we were inside before we knew it. A man scanned each of the 6 Ticketmaster tickets I had on my phone with his handheld scanner. These tickets you can add to your Apple wallet with ease. This show only has digital tickets, no print copies allowed. The inside of the venue is impressive with its high ceilings, colorful decor, and preserved history. The line at the first bar was already getting long but we luckily found another one downstairs with no line. I ordered a Sauvignon blanc and it came in a can the bartender poured into a compostable cup. It ended up being more than a single pour because of the can size but I was charged the $14 single pour price. This includes the tip, which is both confusing and a relief! They only accept cards or Apple Pay no cash. We sat in the balcony after climbing two sets of stairs and there's staff to help us at every corner. The seats are small like basic economy airplane size. I fit comfortably, but I'm small. Unfortunately no cup holders so we had to put our drinks under our seats and an empty cup had been left behind under the seat from the previous show. The row at the front rail got in trouble for placing their drinks on the railing because they were in danger of falling on the heads of people underneath. DO NOT WAIT FOR TO USE THE WOMENS RESTROOM! I made the mistake of waiting 10 minutes before showtime and it took me 20 minutes to go through. The bar line was also long and there was a lot of confused women wondering were the ladies room was because the line is snaked around the bar line. There are only 3 stalls on this level and the theater holds 3000+ guests. When I got out of the toilet, the line was snaked even longer. There was no line for the men's. We couldn't see the faces of the performers but the sound was clear. There was a large screen with video which we were able to see. The seats are staggered and sloped at the balcony so we could see between the people In front of us. I recommend getting the rail seats if you are up here. After the show, there was a big shuffle to exit. No one pushed, but we herded out like cattle out the entrance. Some of the staff were saying thank you and goodbye as you emerged onto the sidewalk waiting with the smells of street hot dogs. We parked across the street at Franklin parking garage thanks to the city's promotion to pay only $5 for evenings there now. Bart is also very convenient. read more

See all

This theatre is gorgeous! I had the pleasure of attending the sold out Chris Rock show and I was also excited to check out this venue that I've never been to before. My friends and I were so impressed on how organized the event was, even grabbing a drink was quick and easy. Since we had to lock our phone in a lock pouch during the show we felt like it was going to take a lot of time before and after, not at all. I think the fact that they were fully staffed helped the event go smoothly. I would for sure attend another show here. I hope more artists book this theatre! read more

See all

It's a very nostalgic venue. It reminds me of the Golden Gate in sf. It's very cozy , great vibe, and very inviting for dancing. The bathrooms are like a big party too. They're huge and even have couches chairs and a room for selfies. They have a lot of Motown at this venue which I love. read more

See all

1. Worst, amateur and inhospitable security and ushers ever. 2. Unhelpful and insensitive to disabled people. Out front, they had a barker barking at the line that no food or drink was allowed, and that if you had a bottle of water, you had to "pour it out on the street and then fill it up inside." That would make sense if they wanted you to buy their water, but in that case they wouldn't let you bring in EMPTY bottles to fill for FREE at their water fountain. Where's the logic here?? Also everyone's bags were searched and they forced me to throw away a small Korean fan because they didn't allow fans. I can understand why that is, but I carry it for a MEDICAL reason to keep my pain down. Knowing this, the guard still threw it out. And I saw glee. Inside the seating area people were gulping drinks AND eating popcorn! I have NEVER seen this in a theater of this caliber; usually you drink/eat in the lobby BEFORE you sit down. Thus, the floor was a sticky mess and the seats grimed with food stains. But the WORST THING were the apathetic, unprofessional security staff and volunteer ushers who did NOTHING to direct traffic to the restrooms. There is no signage and no one knew where to go. Thus, everyone went to stand in line for the DISABLED restroom, which was the only visible one in the main lobby. Paramount did have an EXCELLENT sign by it, which stated: "Reserved exclusively for patrons unable to climb stairs." But the able-bodied people ignored that and forced those with canes and walkers to stand painfully and needlessly in a long line. One woman was on a frame walker, the kind without a seat, and yet not a single NON-handicapped person let her go before them. SHAMEFUL behavior! People are PARALYZED and would GIVE ANYTHING to walk down a flight of stairs; those who can do so should be GRATEFUL that they can! There were plenty of ushers and security right there, but I guess expecting them to inform people where the non-handicapped restrooms are is asking too much. Disappointed in these "volunteers," AND the Paramount for not advocating for disabled people. I guess the 1980's Disability Movement in Berkeley was all for nothing. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - If you are NOT handicapped, please don't use this restroom. Instead, be grateful that you have two legs to walk on. - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

This theater is unbelievably gorgeous. If you have the opportunity to go to this theater do it. It was incredible. I had bought tickets to see Louis CK months before his January show. It just so happened that we also decided to get married on the same day. So as part of our wedding celebration we went and saw Louis the same night. We sat in the balcony but the view is great. The sound is perfect. There cant possibly be a bad seat in this theater. The details are too numerous to describe. Its so beautiful. I cannot wait to come back for another show. read more

See all

The venue is nice. Clean but a bit dated. Bathrooms were in decent condition but had powder soap dispensers with powder soap inside. The line for the bar moved slow but the customer service was good. Bottled water was $4. I bought bottled water and a super small bag of popcorn for $6. The total was $12 (even). I'm unsure what fees and taxes were all included but it seemed like a ripoff to me, but that's just me. I was seated mid-orchestra section. The sound quality was good and I was able see the entire stage. Overall I'd attend another concert there. read more

Loved the theatre! Visited it last week to watch Taylor Tomlinson's comedy show and everything went smoothly: from the fast security check in and ticket check, to the staff helping us find our seats in the dark as we were a bit late, to the great acoustics. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

I have visited the Paramount for various kinds of events: a Leonard Cohen/Prince tribute show, Last Podcast On the Left live appearance, and a Nick Cave and Warren Ellis show. Staff have been consistently efficient, welcoming, and courteous each time, from the security check at the door, at the bar even when busy, to the box office/lost and found team. I really appreciate that they were careful about my lost item and checking for ID before returning it to me. I only wish they were more responsive when I tried to call them multiple times. The phone directory is also a little tricky to navigate to make sure you end up talking to the right person. The interior is gorgeous, and I appreciate their dedication to preserving the legacy. Sightlines are not great in the upper seating, however. I could barely see the stage from how bad the slope was when I sat upstairs, so now I will only go if I can get tickets for the floor/orchestra that are unfortunately but predictably expensive. The sound is at least excellent, no matter where you are sitting. Lines for the bathroom and bar get long because of the small space in the lobby or lower level where they are located. Since they stop serving alcohol after intermission, or sometimes don't even have intermission, I wish they would open doors earlier than an hour so that people can get concessions, go to the bathroom, etc. rather than feeling rushed or missing parts of their show. The line to get in has always been long and snaking down Broadway, and I'm not sure why as when I get to the front, security check is brief (I didn't even notice any metal detectors when I last went). I definitely recommend getting there at least an hour to an hour and a half before the show starts so that you can get in the door with enough time to get settled in your seat. read more

Paramount Theatre-Oakland - the interior of the building - Performing Arts Near Me - Oakland, California