1. Name, Title, and 2-3 sentences about your business/organization:
The Avalon Theatre has been a cornerstone of the community since opening in 1923. After the theater was abruptly closed in 2001, a grassroots effort by the newly formed Avalon Theatre Project successfully restored the historic theatre and it reopened as a nonprofit in 2003. The Avalon screens a diverse selection of films that includes its Wednesday Signature Series, first-run studio films, independent and foreign films, and special programs for students, children, and seniors.
2. What is your business’s connection to Lafayette Elementary School and/or the HSA?
For many years, the Avalon has been connected to Lafayette as a donor to its auction and supporter of the Fall Festival. The theater has welcomed Lafayette parents and students into its café, film screenings, and special events for decades.
3. How does your business or organization engage with/support the Lafayette community?
The Avalon prides itself on being an active member of the Chevy Chase DC community alongside Lafayette. The popular Weekend Family Matinee series caters to families with children, many of whom are associated with Lafayette, by providing essential weekend morning programming of family-friendly films and live performances (click here to learn more about upcoming screenings). In addition to participating in Lafayette’s Fall Festival, members of the Avalon team staff tables at other community events geared toward families including the annual Spooktacular and Chevy Chase DC Day.
4. What is your favorite Lafayette tradition?
After years of supporting the Fall Festival without being able to attend in that capacity, members of the Avalon team were able to staff a table at the 2024 Festival and provide free popcorn to event attendees. The team greatly appreciated the opportunity to engage with the Lafayette community and its families, noting the warm reception from families and positive feedback on theater programming they received.
5. What is your favorite thing to do in the neighborhood?
The Avalon values being an active and visible member of the community, welcoming families to its many film screenings and educational programs, interacting with the public at community events, and supporting other neighborhood institutions that make life in the community more enjoyable.
