Much like the city it calls home, The Avalon is filled with history.
Built in 1922 and openening for business in 1923, it is the oldest operating theater in Washington, D.C, showing classic, independent, foreign, documentary and commercial films.
Originally titled Chevy Chase Theater, given its location, the name changed to The Avalon in 1929. It has had its ups and downs over the years, undergoing internal and external physical changes and even closing for business in March of 2001, due to the bankruptcy of Loews Cineplex. As the direct result of an outcry in the community, the theater was fully restored and reopened for business in April of 2003. More than $200,000 was raised by the community to restore the theater after it had been gutted by Loews. It cost about $750,000 to fully restore the theater to all of its beautiful, historical glory and is once again enjoyed by the public as an integral part of community life.
The theater is a great change of pace from the multiplex cinemas in which we, as patrons, have grown accustomed to. While it is great to have 10 to 15 different movie options, and nearly as many people waiting to sell us popcorn and fountain sodas, there is something missing from those theaters that only a place like The Avalon can fill. It is much like stopping by your local, family-owned restaurant, where you know who your server is going to be before you walk through the front door and where you can relax in the knowledge that you're going to be treated like family. There is warmth and comfort in a place like that, and no matter how much the chain restaurants, superstores, and multiplexes of this world try, they'll never be able to call you by your name or provide you with the opportunity to look into the window of a soul filled with artistic history, character and familial comfort.
Memberships to The Avalon are available, and proceeds help to keep this independent movie theater open for business. As a member of The Avalon, you can enjoy special membership rates, free concessions, invitations to exclusive membership screenings and events and discounts on other offers by participating businesses. Annual memberships range from a $35 student membership to a $2,500 Producer membership, each with their own special privileges. If you choose not to be a member, though, ticket rates and concessions are reasonably priced. Make sure you bring the kids, or your nieces and nephews, on Saturdays for the 10 a.m. movie, prices being only $5 for non members.
Visit The Avalon in Chevy Chase if you're looking for a great date alternative to the normal blockbuster experience. You will not only enjoy a memorable movie experience, but you will participate in a part of history.
The Avalon
5612 Connecticut Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20015
Info Line: 202-966-6000
Business Office: 202-966-2149
Box Office: 202-966-3464
Website: www.theavalon.org
