The Catalina Museum for Art & History is proudly showcasing the 38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase. This showcase is one of the world’s longest-standing tributes to silent cinema. This year’s event happens over two days, Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, 2025 and offers rare film screenings, live music events, and expert commentary in two iconic Avalon venues.
May 16th: Creature from the Black Lagoon
The showcase kicks off on May 16 with an unforgettable evening under the stars at the Catalina Museum’s Ackerman Family Amphitheater. Guests will enjoy a special 3-D screening of Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954). This classic film is the final installment in Universal Pictures’ iconic monster series.
Film historian and 3-D specialist Eric Kurland will share rarely seen production photos and offer an engaging introduction that places the film in its historical context. Complimentary 3-D glasses are included with admission—and yours to keep.
May 17th: The Phantom of the Opera
The celebration continues on May 17 at the historic Avalon Casino Theatre, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece built in 1929 by William Wrigley Jr. In honor of the 100th anniversary of a cinematic classic, the museum will present a special screening of The Phantom of the Opera (1925), starring the legendary Lon Chaney.
This landmark event will feature the world premiere of a newly commissioned score, performed live by acclaimed composer Michael D. Mortilla and a gifted ensemble of musicians.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the May 16 screening are $10. And tickets for the May 17 screening are $20 for museum members, $25 for non-members, and $10 for children.
You can get more information about the 38th annual Silent Film Showcase and purchase tickets here.
These two landmark films provide a unique chance to explore the roots and enduring impact of genre-defining horror all celebrated during an unforgettable weekend of cinema on Catalina Island.
38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase
🗓️ When:
- Friday, May 16, 2025
- Doors Open: 7:30 p.m.
- Film Screening: 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Doors Open: 1 p.m.
- Film Screening: 1:30 p.m.
📍 Where:
- Catalina Museum for Art & History’s Ackerman Family Amphitheater (217 Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704)
- Avalon Casino Theatre (1 Casino Way, Casino Building, Avalon, CA 90704)