What we offer
CLassic & cult film projection
Experience cinema the way it was meant to be, in the beautifully preserved upstairs balcony cinema space—inside a beautifully restored 1920s theatre, complete with vintage canvas sling seats, original latticework, and state heritage charm.
Since reopening in 2014, The Paragon Theatre has become a destination for film lovers, hosting regular classic and cult film days and nights. We’ve welcomed guests from across Australia (and beyond) seeking an experience you just can’t stream.
Looking for something specific? We may be able to arrange a private screening of your favourite film—just ask!
🎟️ Keep an eye on our socials and events page for upcoming movie sessions and ticket releases.
Private function hire & Group Packages
The Paragon is the ideal space for:
- Corporate functions & seminars
- Private film screenings with morning tea
- Historic group tours
The venue is fully licensed, with a bar and espresso service on-site, and additional tables, chairs, and open floor space to suit your layout. Whether it’s an intimate event or a grand celebration, we work with you to create something memorable.
We regularly welcome clubs, bus tours, and tour groups for Behind-the-Scenes Historic Theatre Tours.
Contact Merissa to discuss your event and tailor a package to suit your needs.
pERFECTLY IMPERFECT COLLECTIVE – FOR ART & VINTAGE LOVERS
New for 2025, we’re proud to introduce The Perfectly Imperfect Collective—a curated artisan and vintage retail space located inside the theatre itself.
Perfectly Imperfect is a creative boutique environment offering:
- Artisan & handmade goods
- Upcycled & sustainable products
- Vintage & retro homewares
- Original art, stationery & collectibles
Stallholders enjoy a shopfront without needing to be onsite—we handle all the sales for you! This is a rare opportunity to be part of a vibrant, high-traffic creative hub inside one of Queensland’s most loved venues.
Interested in becoming a vendor?
Our STORY & History
Built in 1927 and lovingly restored by owner Merissa Ricciardi, The Paragon Theatre stands on the foundations of Gee’s Hall, the district’s first silent film venue (est. 1909).
Designed by Brisbane architect Arthur Robson, the theatre reflects a tropical cinema style, with high louvred openings, ornate latticework, and timber interiors. After decades of ownership by the Gee, Sourris, and Ricciardi families, the theatre was closed for many years until Merissa undertook a full restoration beginning in 2007.
She reopened The Paragon in 2014 and was awarded the National Trust Queensland Heritage Award for her conservation work in 2015. That same year, she launched the Espresso Bar to ensure the theatre’s sustainability, and new ventures—like the Perfectly Imperfect Collective—continue to evolve its legacy today.
Design Details of The Paragon
The Paragon is more than a theatre—it’s an architectural experience. Some of its notable features include:
- A face brick and stucco façade with period casement windows and original awnings
- Entry via folding timber doors, with decorative pylons and arches
- Original deckchair canvas seating, timber balcony seating, and retro projection room
- A spacious layout featuring timber fretwork, painted lattice, and decorative arches
- A fully preserved 1920s ambience that celebrates Queensland’s tropical theatre style
Inside, you’ll find timber lattice walls, vintage ticket booths, and layered seating from dress circle to orchestra pit—an authentic cinematic and theatrical journey from every angle.
Get ready for your next movie night
Peruse our roster of upcoming movies and even purchase tickets for the movie or event that takes your fancy.