A Century of Cinema Magic: The History of the Avalon Theatre
For over 100 years, the Avalon Theatre has been a cultural cornerstone in Washington, DC.
As one of the last remaining neighborhood theaters in the DC region, the Avalon is more than just a cinema—it’s a piece of living history.
From its opening as a neighborhood movie house to its transformation into a thriving nonprofit film center, the Avalon has remained committed to preserving the magic of cinema—past, present, and future.
A Community Theater is Born
The Avalon began its story in 1923 as the Chevy Chase Theatre, welcoming guests into a single-screen auditorium that seated 1,200 people.
A grand pipe organ provided live musical accompaniment for silent films. With its striking architecture, upstairs space originally occupied by a music school, and bustling street-level shops, the theater quickly became a beloved gathering place in the neighborhood.
In 1929, after being acquired by Stanley Warner, the theater was renamed the Avalon and became one of the area’s first neighborhood cinemas to be wired for sound. That same year, the Avalon screened The Singing Fool, one of the earliest “talkies,” ushering in a new era of moviegoing.
Surviving Change, Embracing Innovation
Over the decades, the Avalon evolved alongside the film industry. It was air-conditioned in 1937, remodeled in art deco style, and expanded in 1970 with the addition of a second upstairs auditorium, Avalon 2.
In 1985, the large auditorium was fully renovated, featuring new sound equipment, updated seating, and the creation of the now-iconic ceiling mural, which depicts Mercury, the Roman god of messages, passing film reels to Cupid.
In 1990, the Avalon’s façade was granted landmark status, ensuring the protection of its historic exterior for generations to come.
Saved by the Community
In 2001, the Avalon closed abruptly when its commercial owner declared bankruptcy. The building was stripped of its projection equipment and seats, and the future of the historic space was at risk.
But the community rallied: That same year, a group of dedicated neighbors founded the Avalon Theatre Project, a nonprofit organization formed to restore and operate the Avalon. With support from individuals, foundations, and the DC government, the Avalon reopened in April 2003 to overwhelming enthusiasm.
In 2006, the nonprofit officially purchased the building. A capital campaign brought much-needed upgrades, including an elevator and accessibility enhancements.
In 2013, the Avalon transitioned to digital projection, ensuring high-quality cinematic experiences while honoring the charm of its original architecture.
A Living Landmark
In 2023, the Avalon proudly celebrated its centennial anniversary and 20 years as a nonprofit. Throughout the year, we honored the past with a “100 Years of Cinema Magic” film series, showcasing classic movies from each decade since Avalon’s founding.
From wartime epics and romantic comedies to groundbreaking animation and beloved blockbusters, the films we screened reflected the evolution of storytelling and the changing world around us.
As part of this celebration, we also invited longtime patrons to share their personal stories through our Avalon Memories video series; a touching collection of reflections that highlight the Avalon’s lasting impact on the community.
Dating at the Avalon
For generations, the Avalon has been the site of memorable dates. Here a few patrons share
some of their charming dating memories.
The Heart of Our Community
Long-time Avalon patrons reflect on how the theater has impacted their community and their lives.
Watch all Avalon Memories Videos
Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
Every visit to the Avalon supports the preservation of this beloved building and its mission to entertain, educate, inspire, and engage the greater Washington, DC community through the power of film.
With your support, we’ll continue to keep the Avalon vibrant and accessible for generations to come.