Paragon Theatre: A Dream Realized in Coraopolis
Deborah Metzger is owner of Paragon Theatre, a live theater production company based in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. The business started in 2004 as Paragon Studios, a training facility specializing in the performing arts. However, their dream was always to have their own theatre as a permanent home for their productions and the ability to do as many shows as they wanted.
About a year ago, they began the search for a building where they could perform full-time. It was exciting, but also overwhelming. They were unsure where to begin concerning the securing of a loan or navigating the financial side of the business. That’s when they came to the Duquesne University Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and were introduced to Senior Business Consultant Doug Harding.
With the assistance of Doug, Deborah worked through her business plan, explored loan options from several banks in the Pittsburgh area, and ultimately purchased real estate for her new business location.
Thanks to that support, the transformation has been incredible. Paragon Theatre now has the freedom to produce as many shows as they want, whenever they want. Their sound system is perfectly tuned, their lighting is customized, and they have built a loyal audience that comes to their space to experience the magic of live theater.
Paragon Theatre recently had their opening night and it was a resounding success. A cast of nearly 40 performers took the stage to a full house. The community came out in force, even joining the theatre for the ribbon cutting. Seeing the space come to life—from new carpets and seats to an extended stage—was truly a dream come true for Deborah.
Paragon Theater is now a thriving, independent hub for the arts in Coraopolis, and Duquesne University SBDC wishes Deborah and her family nothing but the best on their Paragon Theatre business journey.
To view the video of this success - watch here