The Paramount Ballroom is the most celebrated ballroom in Shanghai's history, and for good reason. I will be posting more info about this famed ballroom soon. Here is a sneak preview of what the ballroom looked like and how it was designed, for readers anticipating its opening in December 1933.

Paramount Ballroom To Open Here Soon

(The China Press Nov 12, 1933)

The new Paramount Ballroom here is emerging from its cocoon plaster and steel, paint and carpentry, with the full luxurious  beauty or an oriental butterfly. Almost every country in the world has contributed of its wealth and beauty towards this social rendezvous. 

Five countries have contributed their finest marble for the exterior and interior decorations. There are two dance floors the larger floor being laid upon the sensationally new floating-spring bed. The smaller dancing floor is an innovation to the Far East. It is of milky crystal from under which glow soft rainbow lights. 

There is a truly modern sophistication throughout the entire decorative scheme. All metal grill work is chrome plated giving the impression of silver against the blue and black marble backgrounds. There is a cocktail bar and banquet rooms separated from the main ballroom by gorgeous sound proof drapes especially imported from Vienna. The Paramount kitchen will leave nothing to be desired as there will be three foreign culinary artists assisted by a staff of 30 cooks. 

The orchestra, now on its way to Shanghai, was hand picked by Duke Ellington leader of America's sensational dance band. From the 11 members who comprise this orchestra a second tango orchestra will be created headed by two musicians formerly featured at the Winter Casino in Havana Cuba.

Joe Farren will be the ballroom manager.