Paramount Theatre Adds Larry the Cable Guy & More to 2013-14 Lineup

Last March, the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, caused a big stir among its nearly 20,000 subscribers by revealing a blockbuster line-up for its 2013-14 Broadway Subscription Series: IN THE HEIGHTS (September 11-October 6, 2013); MISS SAIGON (October 30-November 24, 2013); 42ND STREET (January 15-February 9, 2014); and RENT (March 12-April 6, 2014).

Today, Paramount President and CEO Tim Rater announced the addition of a diverse list of live music acts, nationally recognized comedy stars, a new slate of holiday shows, and spectacular family friendly performances guaranteed to entertain Paramount audiences year-round in 2013-14.

The Paramount's 82nd season launches on Friday, August 23 at 5 p.m. with the annual Season Kick Off Party in the Paramount's beautiful Grand Gallery, followed by the first concert of the new season, the Happy Together Tour. For only $10, Kick Off Party guests will enjoy delicious pre-show appetizers prepared by area restaurants and dining partners, a cash bar, and chances to win amazing prizes from 5 to 7 p.m. Following the party is the Happy Together Tour at 8 p.m., with a re-booted line-up for 2013 boasting some of the great pop and rock stars of the 1960's: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie; Gary Puckett & Union Gap; Gary Lewis & The Playboys, and past members of Three Dog Night and Paul Revere & The Raiders.

Paramount's 2013-14 season continues with Vegas comedian Terry Fator (October 12), SELECTED SHORTS featuring Denis O'Hare, Kate Burton and Kirsten Vangsness (October 13), MOMTOURAGE starring Caroline Rhea, Carol Leifer and Kym Whitley (October 18), Larry The Cable Guy (October 19), Garrison Keillor (November 19), THE SECOND CITY'S NUT-CRACKING HOLIDAY REVUE (December 6-22, in the Copley Theatre), Ballet Folklorico (December 6), A CHRISTMAS CAROL (December 7-9),Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis (December 14), Christmas with the Celts(December 18), magician Bill Blagg (December 28), two New Year's Eve performances of PIANO MEN: A TRIBUTE TO Elton John & Billy Joel (December 31), a special Valentine's Day performance byThe Midtown Men (February 14), The Peking Acrobats (February 16), VOCA PEOPLE (April 19), 3 Redneck Tenors (May 16), THE KING, THE KILLER & CASH: A TRIBUTE TO SUN STUDIOS starring members of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, and Imagination Movers (May 17). Stay tuned for more shows to be announced, including a full slate of children's productions.

"Last year Paramount's total attendance jumped from 140,000 to more than 200,000," said Tim Rater, President and CEO of Paramount Theatre. "That's the largest annual attendance since this theater opened its doors 82 years ago. We credit that to launching a new downtown-quality Broadway subscription series that has made Paramount a frequent destination for nearly 20,000 subscribers, then rounding out our schedule with what else our audiences tell us they want - the very best comedians, music acts, family shows and holiday performances, all at an affordable price, with none of the expense or hassle of travelling downtown. We think Paramount audiences will agree, our 2013-14 season is no exception, and one of our best ever."

Current Paramount subscribers get first dibs on tickets and the best seats through Wednesday, August 7. On Friday, August 9 at 10 a.m., the Paramount General Season will go on sale to the public. If you are not already a subscriber, you can choose to become one at this time by purchasing a minimum of four shows (General Season and/or Broadway) and receive at least five percent off additional single tickets and the best remaining seats. To become a subscriber or to purchase single tickets to individual shows, please call the box office at 630.896.6666, stop by in person at 23 E. Galena Blvd. in Aurora, or go online at ParamountAurora.com.

Subscriber benefits at the Paramount have never been better. Purchase four or more shows and you automatically reap many benefits as a season subscriber, including the best seats in the house, easy ticket exchange privileges, and first notice of added shows and special subscriber events. Subscriber discounts range from 5% to 20% off single ticket prices, depending on how many shows you buy. Purchase eight or more shows and you're a V.I.P. member with exclusive pre-show access to the theatre's private bar and lounge.

Following are more details about new shows announced today for the Paramount's 2013-2014 General Season:

Season Kick Off Party

Friday, August 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Tickets: $10

Help us celebrate the 2013-14 Season with a party before the Happy Together concert. Your $10 ticket gets you in this annual event where you'll sample mouth-watering cuisine from area restaurants while browsing cool silent auction items. Space is limited and this event sells out. Cash Bar. Concert ticket purchased separately.

Happy Together Tour 2013

Friday, August 23 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $59.50

The colossal concert event returns with some of your favorite acts from the last tour and some new artists ready to take you back to the golden age of rock. Songs that used to play on your car radio and sound-tracked your favorite memories come alive again, right before your ears. The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie; Gary Puckett & Union Gap; Gary Lewis & The Playboys, and past members of Three Dog Night and Paul Revere & The Raiders join forces for a special evening of classic rock music.

Broadway Subscription Series
The professional Chicago debut of

IN THE HEIGHTS

Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Book by Quiara Alegría Hudes

Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Directed by Rachel Rockwell

September 11-October 6, 2013

Tickets: $36.90-$49.90

Rated PG

Paramount's first professional area staging of one of Broadway's most acclaimed contemporary musicals will be the show all of Chicago will be talking about this fall. Nominated in 2008 for 13 Tony Awards, taking home four including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestration, IN THE HEIGHTS follows three days in the lives of residents living on 183rd Street in New York's Washington Heights. A largely Hispanic neighborhood, family bonds are strong; neighborhood ties are equally as binding; but change is in the air that will impact everyone. It's a story of dreams and sacrifices, loyalties and love, all taking place in one city block surrounded by millions. The pure energy of Washington Heights pulses with the poetry of rap, soaring ballads and powerful Latin-inspired grooves resulting in one of the most original scores to hit Broadway in years. In a community on the brink of change, full of hopes and dreams, the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you and which you leave In the Heights.

Rachel Rockwell, who staged Paramount's wildly acclaimed productions of HAIR, ANNIE and THE MUSIC MAN, and was subsequently named "2012 Chicagoan of the Year in Theatre" by the Chicago Tribune, returns to direct her fourth production at the Paramount, IN THE HEIGHTS.

Terry Fator

Saturday, October 12 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $79, $89, $99

He sings; he dances; he does stand-up comedy and ventriloquism - and that's all in just one performance! Terry Fator is one of The Strip's premier entertainers and his audiences pack the Mirage's Terry Fator Theatre nightly. Now Fator is bringing his crowd-pleasing act to Aurora - one night only! You'll laugh, cheer and be amazed at Fator's endless talents.

SELECTED SHORTS Live in Performance!

FUNNY FICTIONS

Sunday, October 13 at 3 p.m.

Tickets: $25

The hit public radio series and podcast SELECTED SHORTS tours to Aurora this fall, with a program of hilarious, wacky, and moving, classic and new comic tales performed by three actors from TV's hottest shows: Denis O'Hare (the Tony Award-winning, former Chicago stage actor noted for his performances in TAKE ME OUT and SWEET CHARITY as well as HBO's TRUE BLOOD and THE GOOD WIFE),Kate Burton (THE GOOD WIFE, SCANDAL) and Kirsten Vangsness (CRIMINAL MINDS).

MOMTOURAGE

Starring Caroline Rhea, Carol Leifer and Kym Whitley

Friday, October 18 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $35

Whether you're a parent or just remember what you put your own through, you'll love Momtourage, featuring three notable comediennes and comedy writers letting loose with their wit on the ups-and-downs of being a modern day mom. Caroline Rhea (SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH, Caroline Rhea SHOW), Carol Leifer (SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE, SEINFELD) and Kym Whitley (THE CLEVELAND SHOW) will have you roaring with laughter and nodding in empathy at stories of family life so funny and familiar that they might be your own.

Larry The Cable Guy

Saturday, October 19 at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Tickets: $65 and $85

Brash, irreverent and 100 percent blue collar, Larry The Cable Guy is a stand-up comedian and radio personality with a style all his own. Whether recounting stories of his family or offering unique takes on all sorts of other topics, Larry will have you busting out of your overalls. With only two shows at The Paramount on one hilarious evening, you won't want to wait until the last minute to buy tickets! GIT-R-DONE!

Broadway Subscription Series
MISS SAIGON

Music by Claude-Michel Schonberg

Lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr. and Alain Boublil

Directed by Jim Corti, Paramount Artistic Director

October 30-November 24, 2013

Tickets: $36.90-$49.90

Rated PG-13 for adult themes and language

From the creators of LES MISERABLES comes one of the most epic stage productions of modern theater. MISS SAIGON is the riveting story of an American soldier that has fallen in love with a Vietnamese bargirl as the fall of Saigon is looming. Following a quick wedding and an evening of passion, the GI is forced to evacuate, pledging to return for his new bride. Years later, he learns his love escaped the country with their son he never knew...beginning a quest that will change everyone.

An emotionally-charged production, MISS SAIGON is an experience filled with brilliant imagery, rich unforgettable orchestrations and lyrics, and a story that will pierce your being. Love, loss and the ultimate sacrifice...be a part of Paramount's remarkable production.

Garrison Keillor

Tuesday, November 19 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $40 and $55

Lake Wobegon's most famous resident is on his way down from The Edge of the prairie to share a fun-filled evening of offbeat tales and oddball characters. Garrison Keillor is one of America's National Treasures, an unparalleled spinner of stories whose weekly radio show, A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION, has been on the air for nearly four decades. For one night you can experience Keillor enrapture and entertain an audience as only he can. Don't miss this rare chance to hear - AND see - a truly special live performer.

Ballet Folklorico

Friday, December 6 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $18 children 12 and under, $25 adult

The colorful and exciting music and dance troupe returns to The Paramount Theatre once again to dazzle audiences of all ages with traditional Mexican folkloric performance. The choreography and costuming are all drawn from the richest and most vibrant heritage and customs of Mexico, and the dancers are renowned across the nation for their talent, grace, and artistry. You'll tap your feet, you'll clap your hands, you'll feel your spirits rise and your eyes light up when you witness Ballet Folklorico!

THE SECOND CITY'S NUT-CRACKING HOLIDAY REVUE

December 6-22

Presented in the 216-seat Copley Theatre located directly across from the Paramount

Tickets: $35

You've seen some of their brightest stars in TV and movies, and now the comedians of Chicago's world-famous Second City return to the intimate 216-seat Copley Theatre with their usual brand of brash and irreverent humor-and a different sort of holiday cheer. This troupe will put grins on your face and laughs in your belly with their whip-smart improvisation, hilarious and offbeat songs, and a willingness to skewer any topic you can name. Last season's revue sold out nearly every show, so buy tickets now if you don't want to be left out in the cold.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

By Charles Dickens, Adapted by Charles Jones

December 7-9

Saturday, December 7 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Sunday, December 8 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Monday, December 9 special daytime performances 9 a.m. and Noon

Tickets: $25 for children 12 and under, $35 for adults

The holiday tradition returns to life at The Paramount Theatre in a delightful and surprising new production, featuring lively music, gorgeous dance, breathtaking costumes, and magical design that evokes the wonder and spirit of Christmas. In Dickens' classic tale, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and given the chance to redeem himself and be better to his fellow man. Featuring a host of iconic characters, this is A CHRISTMAS CAROL that makes a perfect holiday outing for the whole family.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

Saturday, December 14 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Tickets: $59 and $69

For over a quarter of a century the American Christmas season has included the musical arrangements and uplifting harmonies of Mannheim Steamroller. With over 16 best-selling albums of classical Christmas music to their credit, it's easy to hear why they're considered the premier choral interpreter of Yuletide standards. This December, experience this beloved act live with your whole family, led by the group's founder Chip Davis. 'Tis the season to be jolly - let Mannheim Steamroller get you in the holiday mood.

Christmas with the Celts

Wednesday, December 18 at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $30 and $35

Give yourself and the family an early Holiday gift. It's high-energy, fast-dancing Christmas with music from the green and rocky lands of Ireland and Scotland. For over 15 years the Celts have traveled the world playing the passionate songs of their homeland with a pop twist, including both fiery traditionals and the hits of beloved contemporary artists like Van Morrison and The Chieftains. Now, they bring their unparalleled talent and witty banter to Aurora for the holiday season. Reserve your seats now...but once the music starts, don't expect to stay in them!

Bill Blagg

Saturday, December 28 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Tickets: $25 for children 12 and under, $35 for adults

Even the most skeptical audience member will have to think twice about believing what they see when they watch the magic of Bill Blagg. A consummate entertainer and spellbinding stage magician, Blagg has been perfecting his art since he was given his first kit of magic tricks at five-years-old. Since then, he has thrilled and flabbergasted scores of people, all of whom want to know: "How did he do that?" Experience for yourself Bill Blagg and be sure to buy your tickets early... because if you blink, they're going to vanish.

PIANO MEN: A TRIBUTE TO Elton John & Billy Joel

New Year's Eve, Tuesday, December 31 at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

10 p.m. performance includes champagne toast and party favors

Tickets: $55

It's the ultimate tribute to two of the greatest singers/songwriters/performers of our time by two of the best Elton & Billy tribute artists in the country. Each with an endless catalog of hits, you'll spend the night singing your heart out and dancing in the aisles as two amazing performers - Paramount favorite Craig A. Meyer as Elton, and Donnie Kehr in his Paramount debut as Billy - take the stage together with their pianos.

Broadway Subscription Series

42ND STREET

Music by Harry Warren

Lyrics by Al Dubin

Book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble

Based on the novel by Bradford Ropes

Original Direction and Dances by Gower Champion

Directed by Rachel Rockwell

January 15-February 9, 2014

Tickets: $36.90-$49.90

Rated G

It's the classic story of Broadway. Peggy leaves her small town to pursue her dreams in New York. While keeping the big city wolves at bay, she befriends the working class of the theater world - the chorus - and lands a part on the line in the newest play Pretty Lady. But Broadway is full of heroes and villains on-and-off the stage, and Peggy encounters them all on her way to eventual stardom.

Filled with the biggest show-stopping tap numbers on Broadway, 42ND STREET is a true spectacle with its gorgeous 1930s costumes, beautiful sets and hit-after-hit including "We're in the Money, "Lullaby of Broadway," "Shuffle Off to Buffalo," and of course the title number "42nd Street," all performed by the Paramount's full orchestra.

The Midtown Men - Special Valentine's Day Performance

Friday, February 14 at 1:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Tickets: $45 and $55

The original stars of Broadway's runaway hit JERSEY BOYS take The Paramount stage with a whole new musical act that celebrates the music of the 1960s. The Midtown Men branch out from their acclaimed renditions of songs by the Four Seasons to bring you more sensational music by The Beatles, The Beach Boys and the best artists from the golden age of Motown. More than just a tribute to a bygone era, this performance will show you - or remind you - of what it was like to see those groundbreaking artists live onstage, playing their greatest hits.

The Peking Acrobats

Sunday, February 16 at 5 p.m.

Tickets: $25 for children 12 and under, $35 for adults

Renowned for their grace, artistry and feats of seemingly impossible physical daring, The Peking Acrobats are a marvel to behold. Many of this troupe have been studying the ancient art of acrobatics since they were children, and now you can watch them as they climb, flip, and fly their way into The Paramount Theatre on their journey to astound audiences everywhere. Your whole family will be enthralled by this amazing display, practiced by some of the most talented performers in the world!

Broadway Subscription Series
RENT

Book, Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Larson

Musical Arrangements by Steve Skinner

Original Concept/Lyrics by Billy Aronson

Directed by Jim Corti, Paramount Artistic Director

March 12-April 6, 2014

Tickets: $36.90-$49.90

Rated R: Includes strong adult language and themes. Not recommended for those under 17.

Possibly no other musical in recent Broadway history received such anticipation for its opening or such immediate stardom after its very first performance than RENT. Rolling Stone, New York Times, Wall Street Journal and even the front cover of Newsweek all heralded RENT as THE modern musical of our time. It went on to win four Tony Awards, including Best Musical and a Pulitzer Prize.

Based on the experiences of creator Jonathan Larson - and loosely based on the opera La Boheme- RENT immerses audiences in the lives of eight young artists and musicians living in the Lower East Side of the Bohemian Alphabet City. From a poet and a musician to a lawyer and a drag queen, their lives are intertwined as they fight to survive in the Big Apple and, in some cases, fight for their mortality from HIV. In the end, it's friendship, love and the ability to maintain their individuality that keeps these souls together.

The music is a myriad of styles from rock and funk to gospel and heart-aching ballads. The stage is filled with extraordinary dance numbers celebrating life and mourning mistakes. And when the curtain goes down, RENT will revitalize your soul.

VOCA PEOPLE

Saturday, April 19 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $35 and $40

You've never seen or heard anything quite like the VOCA PEOPLE - at least not on this planet! Hailing from the faraway world of Voca on the other side of the sun, these alien entertainers descend upon the Paramount Theatre as ambassadors from a culture where all communication comes in the form of music. You'll be thrilled at the array of sounds that come from this strange but delightful troupe, who use a capella singing, beat box and vocal mimicry to perform both familiar songs, and songs you've never imagined. It's an experience that's out of this world.

3 Redneck Tenors

Friday, May 16 at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $40

Bravissimo, y'all! The 3 Redneck Tenors are a multiple-NASCAR pileup of highbrow and lowbrow, combining the chicken-fried culture of the Deep South with the virtuoso vocalizations of classical music and opera. Billy Joe, Billy Bob and Billy Billee may just be a trio of good ol' boys, but they can hit the high notes as easily as they can chug down a six pack of lite beer. You'll follow their adventures from the family hog pen to Carnegie Hall, as the whole world discovers the amazing voices within the muddy overalls.

THE KING, THE KILLER & CASH: A TRIBUTE TO SUN STUDIOS

Saturday, May 17 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Tickets: $35 and $45

Starring three incredible tribute artists from MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET. Sun Studios in Memphis launched the careers and provided the soundtrack for its three biggest stars: Elvis Presley, Jerry Lewis and Johnny Cash. Hailed as the "birthplace" of Rock & Roll, the music of Sun Studios is the spotlight of this musical tribute to those amazing artists.

Imagination Movers
Sunday, May 18 at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20 children 12 and under, $29 adults

They're the hottest live kid's show on Disney Junior and their concerts are unmatched. You'll be singing, dancing, laughing, learning and most importantly, you'll be doing it with your kid or kids. This is the family show that creates a lifetime of memories.

ABOUT THE PARAMOUNT THEATRE:

The Paramount Theatre is the center for performing arts, entertainment and arts education in Aurora, the second largest city in Illinois. Named "One of Chicago's Top 10 Attended Theatres" by the League of Chicago Theatres, the 1,888-seat Paramount Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Aurora at 23 E. Galena Blvd., is nationally renowned for the quality and caliber of its presentations, superb acoustics and historic beauty.

The Paramount Theatre opened on September 3, 1931. Designed by nationally renowned theater architects C.W. and George L. Rapp, the theater captures a unique Venetian setting portrayed in the art deco influence of the 1930s. The first air-conditioned building outside of Chicago, the Paramount offered the public a variety of entertainment, including "talking pictures", vaudeville, concerts and circus performances for more than 40 years.

In 1976, Aurora Civic Center Authority purchased the Paramount and closed the theater for restoration. The $1.5 million project restored the Paramount to its original grandeur. On April 29, 1978, the Paramount Arts Center opened, offering a variety of theatrical, musical, comedy, dance and family programming. In 2006, a 12,000-square-foot, two-story Grand Gallery lobby was added, with a new, state-of-the-art box office, cafe and art gallery.

Today, the Paramount Theatre continues to expand its artistic and institutional boundaries under the guidance of President and CEO Tim Rater, Artistic Director Jim Corti, a dedicated Board of Trustees and a devoted staff of live theater professionals.

Paramount's 2013-14 General Season is sponsored by the Daily Herald. The 2013-14 Paramount Broadway Series is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank. The 2013-14 season is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency. For more, visit ParamountAurora.com.