Silent Film Festival Near LA
Avalon Silent Film Showcase Celebrates Cinema Classics
Table of Contents
- Avalon Silent Film Showcase Celebrates Cinema Classics
- Avalon Silent Film showcase: Your Questions Answered
- What is the Avalon Silent Film Showcase?
- When and where does the Showcase take place?
- What films will be screened?
- Can you tell me more about the “Creature From the Black Lagoon” screening?
- What’s so special about the ”Phantom of the Opera” screening?
- Where can I buy tickets, and what are the prices?
- What is the schedule for the event?
- What are the addresses for the event locations?
- Why should I attend the Avalon Silent Film Showcase?

AVALON, Calif. (AP) — The Catalina Museum of Art and History will host its 38th annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase, a long-standing tribute to silent film, May 16-17, 2025.The two-day event features screenings of rare films, accompanied by live music and commentary from film experts, at two locations in Avalon.
May 16: “Creature from the black Lagoon” in 3-D
The showcase begins May 16 with an outdoor screening of “Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954) at the Ackerman family Amphitheater of the Catalina Museum. The Global Pictures classic will be presented in 3-D.
film historian Eric Kurland will provide context for the film with rarely seen production photos and historical background. Admission includes complimentary 3-D glasses.
May 17: ”The Phantom of the Opera” at the Avalon Casino Theatre
On May 17, the event moves to the historic Avalon Casino Theatre, an Art Deco landmark built in 1929. The museum will present a screening of “The Phantom of the Opera” (1925), starring Lon Chaney, to commemorate the film’s 100th anniversary.
A newly commissioned score for the film, composed by Michael D. Mortilla, will be performed live by Mortilla and a musical ensemble.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the May 16 screening are $10. Tickets for the May 17 screening are $20 for museum members, $25 for non-members, and $10 for children.
Tickets and further details about the 38th annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase are available online.
The weekend offers a chance to explore the origins and lasting impact of the horror genre with an immersive film experiance on Catalina Island.
Event Details
Dates:
- Friday,May 16,2025
- Doors open: 7:30 p.m.
- Film screening: 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, May 17, 2025
- doors open: 1:00 p.m.
- Film screening: 1:30 p.m.
Locations:
- Ackerman Family Amphitheater of the Catalina Museum of Art and History (217 Metropolis Ave, Avalon, CA 90704)
- Avalon Casino Theatre (1 Casino Way, Casino Building, Avalon, CA 90704)
Avalon Silent Film showcase: Your Questions Answered
Are you a silent film enthusiast, a lover of classic cinema, or simply looking for a unique experience? The Avalon Silent Film showcase on Catalina Island might be just what you’re looking for! This Q&A will provide you with all the essential details about this exciting two-day event.
What is the Avalon Silent Film Showcase?
The Avalon Silent Film Showcase is an annual event hosted by the Catalina Museum of Art and history. It’s a tribute to the art of silent film. This long-standing tradition features screenings of rare silent films, accompanied by live music and commentary from film experts.
When and where does the Showcase take place?
The 38th annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase will be held on May 16-17, 2025, at two locations in Avalon, California:
Ackerman Family Amphitheater of the Catalina Museum of Art and History
Avalon Casino Theater
What films will be screened?
This year’s showcase includes two classic films:
“Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954): Presented in 3-D at the Ackerman Family Amphitheater on May 16.
“The Phantom of the Opera” (1925): Screened at the Avalon Casino Theatre on May 17 to commemorate its 100th anniversary.
Can you tell me more about the “Creature From the Black Lagoon” screening?
The screening of “Creature from the Black Lagoon” on May 16th will be held outdoors at the Ackerman Family Amphitheater of the Catalina Museum. This screening of the 1954 classic will be presented in 3-D! Film historian Eric Kurland will provide insights, context, and past background during the screening, including rarely seen production photos. Admission includes complimentary 3-D glasses.
What’s so special about the ”Phantom of the Opera” screening?
The screening of “The Phantom of the Opera” on May 17th is a highlight of the showcase. It will be held at the historic Avalon Casino Theatre, an Art Deco landmark perfect for enjoying this classic. The 1925 film, starring Lon Chaney, will be accompanied by a newly commissioned score composed by Michael D. Mortilla,performed live by Mortilla and a musical ensemble.
Where can I buy tickets, and what are the prices?
Tickets and further details about the 38th annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase are available online.
Here’s a breakdown of ticket prices:
| Screening Date | Ticket type | Price |
| :————- | :—————– | :—— |
| May 16 | General Admission | $10 |
| May 17 | Museum Members | $20 |
| May 17 | Non-Members | $25 |
| May 17 | Children | $10 |
What is the schedule for the event?
The event schedule is as follows:
Friday, May 16, 2025
Doors Open: 7:30 p.m.
Film Screening: 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Doors Open: 1:00 p.m.
Film Screening: 1:30 p.m.
What are the addresses for the event locations?
Ackerman Family Amphitheater: 217 Metropolis Ave, avalon, CA 90704
Avalon Casino Theatre: 1 Casino Way, Casino building, Avalon, CA 90704
Why should I attend the Avalon Silent Film Showcase?
The Avalon Silent Film Showcase provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of classic cinema on Catalina Island.It’s a chance to experience rare films with live music, expert commentary, and a vibrant atmosphere. It also offers a chance to explore the origins and enduring impact of the horror genre.
