A Weekend of Silent Film Magic

The Catalina Museum of Art & History is thrilled to announce the 38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase, a prestigious event celebrating the artistry of silent cinema.Scheduled for may 16th and 17th, 2025, this year’s showcase promises a captivating experience with rare film screenings, live musical accompaniment, and insightful commentary at two of Avalon’s most cherished landmarks.

Opening Night: Creature from the Black Lagoon in 3-D

The showcase commences on May 16th with a unique outdoor screening of the classic horror film, Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954), presented in immersive 3-D. the event will take place under the stars at the ackerman Family amphitheater of the Catalina Museum.

Film historian Eric Kurland, a specialist in 3-D cinema, will provide an engaging introduction, offering historical context and showcasing rarely seen production stills. Attendees will receive complimentary 3-D glasses to enhance their viewing experience.

Celebrating a Century of The Phantom of the Opera

The festivities continue on May 17th at the magnificent Avalon Casino Theatre, an Art Deco masterpiece completed in 1929 by William Wrigley Jr. This year’s highlight is a special presentation of The Phantom of the opera (1925),starring Lon Chaney,commemorating the film’s 100th anniversary.

Adding to the spectacle, a newly composed score by Michael D. Mortilla will be performed live by the composer and a talented ensemble of musicians, creating a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Ticket Information

don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the world of silent film. Tickets are available for purchase through the Catalina Museum of Art & History.

• May 16th (Creature from the Black Lagoon): $10
• May 17th (The Phantom of the Opera):
  • Museum Members: $20
  • Non-Members: $25
  • Children: $10

A Weekend of Unforgettable Cinema on Catalina Island

Prepare for a unique cinematic journey as Catalina Island gears up to host the 38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase. This year’s event promises an exploration into the roots and enduring impact of what can be described as gene-definent horrors, all within the captivating setting of an unforgettable film weekend on Catalina Island.

Delving into the Depths of Silent Film

Silent films, frequently enough overlooked in today’s world of high-definition and surround sound, offer a raw and unfiltered storytelling experience. The absence of dialog forces filmmakers to rely on visual cues, compelling performances, and evocative scores to convey emotion and narrative. This showcase provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the artistry and innovation of early cinema, notably in its exploration of complex themes.

Consider, for example, the impact of films like Nosferatu (1922), which, despite its age, continues to resonate with audiences due to its masterful use of shadow and atmosphere to create a sense of dread. The avalon Silent Film Showcase aims to present films that similarly push the boundaries of the genre, inviting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about humanity and its potential for darkness.

Event Details: Dates, Times, and Locations

Mark your calendars for a weekend immersed in cinematic history. The showcase will take place across two iconic Catalina island venues:

Schedule

• 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-Gebäude, Avalon, CA 90704)

Ticket Information and Further Details

For those interested in attending this unique event, further details, including ticket purchasing information, can be found [here]. don’t miss this chance to experience the power and artistry of silent film in the stunning setting of Catalina Island.