New Entertainment Complex Set To Open in Coconut Grove

COCONUT GROVE, Fla., April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The wait is over. Paragon Theaters ("Paragon"), the entity founded by the former executives of MUVICO, is moving full-steam ahead with a new entertainment complex at CocoWalk in Coconut Grove, Miami.  The first component of the complex will be a 1,500 seat luxury movie theatre featuring reserved stadium seating, the only all SONY 4K high-definition digital projection in Miami, three 3D screens, valet parking, deluxe concessions, and full bar service.  Such amenities promise amusement for patrons of all ages.  The theatre will open its doors the weekend of June 4th with the much-anticipated SEX AND THE CITY 2. 

Future plans for the project include luxury bowling, a private screening room, alternative content such as sporting events and concerts, and the opening of the trendy bar/lounge, U Bar.  "We are thrilled about the opening of this unique complex; it will be such an important addition to the heart of this area," states Bob Whelan of PMAT, the owner of CocoWalk. 

Much dialogue has surrounded the new theatre and when it would open.  Whelan explains, "We could not discuss the particulars of this project until the successful restructuring of our loan agreements were complete.  We're so pleased to now be able to share all of the exciting details." He continues, "When we decided to replace the old CocoWalk theatre with a modern, premiere movie-going experience, we hadn't realized how blessed our timing would be.  The former executives of the popular chain, MUVICO, were creating a new concept and we wanted that concept here."

"Upon reviewing many possible locations around the country, we fell in love with CocoWalk and the Coconut Grove area," explains Mike Whalen (no relation to Bob Whelan of PMAT), CEO of Paragon Theatres and the former CEO of MUVICO.  "This will be the most differentiating movie-going and entertainment experience not only in Miami but in the entire region.  We fully believe downtown Coconut Grove is on the verge of a major rebirth, and we are overjoyed to be a part of it."  

While the initial plan was to open the theater under the MUVICO name, Bob explains the new approach, "We decided licensing the MUVICO name simply wasn't the right match for this project.  We felt that the funds and energy should go towards the visionaries behind this extraordinary concept."  

Paragon is a fast-growing company currently in development of two other similar complexes, including a 75,000 square foot entertainment center in Fredericksburg, Virginia (a partnership with the bowling phenom, Splitsville).   Whelan continues, "CocoWalk will be the flagship location for the Paragon brand, a concept founded by the same team that built the tremendous brand equity of MUVICO. CocoWalk will once again be the premier destination for those who want to shop, dine, and unwind."

The Paragon team has taken into consideration the people and businesses of the area throughout all phases of development.  Paragon partner Hank Lightstone explains, "We feel it's very important to bring a community theatre to this region that will play Hollywood hits as well as independent and alternative content." Paragon will be a support center for film in all of its forms; Lightstone continues, "We are in discussions with the University of Miami Film School to undertake some exciting programs together.  We are also finalizing plans for a series of screenings, seminars and a pioneering film festival."

Paragon's third partner, Mike Wilson, explains the details of the project, "The design of Paragon's CocoWalk theatre is sleek, visually stimulating, and technologically advanced. We are well-aware of the importance of art to this community, and are thrilled to be featuring the stunning works of local artists throughout the complex."   Wilson continues, "Our goal was to create a balance between the modernity of today's movie going experience with the traditionalism of a community theatre."  

Mike Whalen summarizes the company's approach, "We are all Florida residents so this project was important to us on a very personal level.  We look forward to offering a source of entertainment and enjoyment for the people of Miami for years to come."

Visit www.paragontheaters.com for information or contact [email protected]

SOURCE Paragon Theaters