Reports: Live Nation Acquires The Paramount in Huntington
The Paramount, a cornerstone of Huntington’s downtown entertainment scene, has officially been sold to Live Nation, according to reports from The Long-Islander and Long Island Business News. The venue, owned by Dominick Catoggio, Jim Condron, Brian Doyle, and Stephen Ubertini, has been a cultural hub for 13 years, occupying the former IMAC space on New York Avenue. Since its inception, The Paramount has hosted thousands of performances, featuring top-tier acts like Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran, and comedian Kevin James.
In a statement quoted by The Long-Islander’s Peter Sloggatt, the founders expressed excitement about the sale, saying they are happy that The Paramount will continue its legacy partnership with Live Nation, their booking partner for 13 years.
The deal includes not only the main stage but also the VIP Founders Room, the Spotlight art bar, and Ella’s restaurant, ensuring the venue’s unique atmosphere remains intact. According to the reports, all current staff members will retain their positions.
Changes for the area have been happening recently with the Tap Room officially opening its doors in Huntington on June 29th, taking over the location briefly occupied by Craft Kitchen & Cocktails right across the street from the venue.
In 2022, the Huntington-based club was named the number one club in the world by ticket sales, according to Pollstar, a trade publication that tracks data for the global concert industry. The Paramount had gross sales of $10,509,155 in 2022, edging out the next closest competitor, House of Blues Boston, which garnered $10,328,655. The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York City raked in $9,942,330 and came in third. Outside the US, a club called MTELUS in Montreal Canada did $7,133,162 in gross sales and came in number six worldwide. That accomplishment comes on the heels of being nominated by Pollstar Magazine as “Nightclub of the Decade,” according to a statement released by The Paramount.
As the world’s largest live-entertainment company, Live Nation is expected to bring additional industry-leading benefits to The Paramount. The company plans to continue the “On The Road Again” program, which supports emerging artists, ensuring a platform for both established and up-and-coming talent.
“This next chapter for The Paramount promises continued incredible entertainment for the Huntington community,” the founders added, setting the stage for a seamless transition and the venue’s bright future under new ownership.
Lisbeth R. Barron and her firm Barron International Group was the exclusive financial advisor to The Paramount, acting as strategic advisory for the owners of the venue in the deal. Barron International Group is a music and entertainment strategic advisory and capital-raising company.
We will update this story as more information becomes available.
Photo: Google Maps.