Burlington Nurtures Their Creative Class

An Example and Inspiration

Despite Burlington’s population being half that of its nearby neighbors, this small town sets the example for a flourishing theater scene. We believe the downtown venue, The Paramount Theater, has played a significant part in boosting the theater scene. Owned and operated by the City of Burlington since its renovation in 1998, this converted movie house draws many clients, including an impressive eight local theater companies who book their entire seasons at this central, affordable space. Before this space was available, Burlington had only one theater company. Now, there are 12 in this town with a population of just under 54,000.

“The Paramount has proved important to downtown, particularly in the area of civic involvement and business expansion. Since 1998, at least seven new businesses have opened, categories of which include restaurants, coffee shop, brewery, ice cream parlor, and wine shop. Citizens have availed themselves of these businesses while attending plays, musicals, concerts, civic and religious functions, and other events at ‘The Showplace of Alamance County.’” ~Dave Wright, Managing Director of The Paramount Theater

An intimate and affordable theatre located in Kernersville would create a nurturing atmosphere for artists in the Triad to produce more shows. It would satisfy pent-up demand. A Kernersville location would not only pull from around the Triad but would cause Kernersville itself to support a higher level of theatrical activity. As Burlington provides an affordable theatre and thereby supports local artists, having the Krossroads Playhouse in Kernersville would support artists in this area.