Upgrades have been made recently to the Paramount Theatre . Last week, the theatrical supply company Norcostco, owned by Austin native Erik Schindler, dead hung our theatrical rigging system.
For those unfamiliar with theaters, the rigging is a system of ropes, pulleys and counterweights that allow technicians to move components like scenery, lighting, curtains clear of the audience view above the stage.
Essentially, our system had been the original sandbag system installed in 1929. Ropes on the system had been replaced over the years to improve its safety, but Norcostco was unable to approve the overall safety rating of the system because of its age; therefore, we decided to chain the lines to the ceiling to guarantee safety. At some point, we can replace the chained lines with motorized ones.
Photos of the rigging process can be seen on our Facebook page . Another addition to the Paramount is a 1919 restored Mason and Hamlin grand piano. The piano was generously donated to the Hormel Historic Home by MarySue Hormel Harris. To best utilize this valuable donation, the HHH has agreed to loan the piano to the Paramount on a long-term basis to use at our events. It will also be able to be moved back to the HHH as needed.
Our current piano, donated by Paula Sherman, will find a new home at the Mower County Senior Center for use at events and activities.
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There are still great events coming up at the Paramount. At 7:30 p.m. June 16, Coco Walters will present "The Patsy Cline Story." Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 434-0934 or online .
