Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Historic Cinema in Washington, DC
As the oldest operating movie house in the Washington, DC region, Avalon Theatre has been a cultural cornerstone since 1923. After a community-led restoration effort, we reopened in 2003 as a nonprofit dedicated to film exhibition, education, and historic preservation. Our diverse programming includes independent films, foreign cinema, educational initiatives, and special events that engage audiences of all ages. With a restored 1923 auditorium and modern amenities, we blend historic charm with contemporary relevance. Our team combines decades of experience in film curation and community engagement, ensuring every screening and program reflects our commitment to artistic excellence.As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on donor support to maintain our mission-driven work. Our staff includes industry professionals with expertise in film studies, nonprofit management, and historic preservation. We adhere to strict operational standards, maintaining our buildings architectural integrity while providing accessible, inclusive programming. Transparency in operations and community collaboration remain central to our trusted role in the regions cultural landscape.
Services
Film Screenings
Educational Programs
Special Events
Gift Cards
Membership Benefits
Details
- Year established: 1923
Highlights and features
- We offer the Washington, DC regions longest-running independent cinema experience since 1923.
- Our nonprofit mission prioritizes community engagement and film education programs.
- We maintain historic preservation standards while providing modern viewing experiences.
- Our programming includes exclusive international films and award-winning documentaries.
- We provide discounted tickets for seniors, students, and military personnel.
Services
Film Screenings
Avalon Theatre presents diverse film programming including independent features, foreign films, and special cinematic releases. Our historic auditorium offers an immersive viewing experience with digital projection and restored architectural elements. Screenings cater to varied audiences through matinees, evening shows, and seasonal festivals.
Educational Programs
Our Cinema Classroom initiative provides free film education for 6th-12th graders, combining screenings with expert-led discussions. Programs align with school curricula while fostering critical thinking about cinema as an art form. We've engaged over 4,000 students since launching in 2013 through partnerships with local schools and educators.
Special Events
We host unique film experiences including Q&A sessions with filmmakers, themed movie nights, and partnerships with cultural organizations. Special programs like Senior Cinema Thursday and Weekend Family Matinees create inclusive community gathering opportunities through cinema.
Membership Benefits
Avalon memberships offer discounted tickets, concessions, and exclusive access to member-only screenings. Benefits include neighborhood retail discounts and special pricing tiers that support our nonprofit operations. Members receive priority access to limited-engagement films and event announcements.
Gift Cards
Avalon gift cards provide flexible access to all theatre offerings including tickets, memberships, and concessions. Available in denominations from $25 to $100, they make ideal gifts for film enthusiasts while directly supporting our nonprofit mission.
People
Lisa Banks
Chair
Lisa Banks is a partner at Katz Banks Kumin LLP with extensive experience in nonprofit governance and legal advocacy. She leads Avalon Theatre's board in strategic decision-making while maintaining community engagement priorities.
Bill Oberdorfer
Executive Director
Bill Oberdorfer oversees Avalon Theatre's daily operations and programming strategy. With deep local arts administration experience, he guides the organization's mission to preserve historic cinema while expanding educational initiatives and community access.
Andrew Mencher
Programming Director
Andrew Mencher curates Avalon Theatre's diverse film selections and special programs. His programming expertise ensures a balanced mix of classic cinema, contemporary independent films, and culturally significant screenings that attract broad audiences.
Rebecca Dupas
Director of Education
Dr. Rebecca Dupas develops Avalon's educational initiatives, including the Cinema Classroom program. She connects film studies to academic curricula while managing partnerships with local schools and educators to enhance student engagement with cinema as art.
George Smith
Director of Operations
George Smith manages Avalon Theatre's facilities and technical operations. He ensures the preservation of the historic building while maintaining modern standards for projection, safety, and audience comfort across daily operations.
Questions
What types of films does Avalon Theatre show?
We screen independent films, foreign cinema, documentaries, classic films, and special programming including award-season contenders and themed festivals.
Are there membership benefits for frequent visitors?
Yes! Members receive discounted tickets, concessions, neighborhood retail discounts, and exclusive access to member-only screenings and events.
Does Avalon Theatre offer educational programs for students?
Our free Cinema Classroom program provides film education for 6th-12th graders with curriculum-aligned screenings and expert-led discussions.
How can I support Avalon Theatre's mission?
Support options include tax-deductible donations, purchasing gift cards, becoming a member, or including Avalon in estate planning.
What is Avalon Theatre's historical significance?
Opened in 1923 as Chevy Chase Theatre, it's Washington's oldest operating movie house, restored in 2003 as a nonprofit cultural institution celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2023.
Can I rent Avalon Theatre for private events?
We occasionally host special events through partnerships, but the theatre is primarily dedicated to public film programming and educational initiatives.
