By: Stuart Adelberg
I am sad to report that this has been another slow week at the Avon. This morning, I asked myself, once again, if it makes sense to be open. But then I am reminded that a mission driven, non-profit organization does not measure itself by numbers, but rather the meaningful difference it makes. With that as a goal, the Avon Theatre Film Center remains open!
After a long, costly closure, the Avon reopened a few months ago with rigorous safety protocols and seating capacity reduced to under 40%. We knew it would take time for many patrons to return and we knew there would be limited new film offerings, but we were excited to welcome our staff and even a small audience back into our historic theatre. Since reopening, we have hosted “crowds” from five to fifty, a major reduction from our pre-pandemic capacity of over 240 in each of two theatres. Social distancing at the Avon is clearly not a problem! Despite these numbers, there are stories that give me a sense that our decision to stay open is the right one.
Shortly after reopening, we agreed to show a new independent film. At the time, we were the only option in the tri-state area, so even though this was a lesser-known project, we showed it. Not only was it an excellent film, but our theatre welcomed several of the stars who eagerly engaged with our audience for an impromptu Q and A. These aspiring young actors had achieved the dream of a film role, and we gave them and their families the only chance they would get to see their work on the big screen.
A couple of months ago, I was approached by Kids in Crisis. This amazing agency has a program called The Lighthouse, which provides a supportive environment for LGBTQ teens. The spaces in which they previously met were closed, putting their future in jeopardy. They are now meeting at the Avon, at a time each week when we are not showing films. Our family has grown, and I could not be prouder.
A few weeks ago, I was asked if we could help a gentleman propose to a young lady he hoped would become his wife. He invited a small group of friends who sat masked throughout the theatre, as he arrived with his intended. The young man had created a wonderful video that played on our screen, which ended with him on his knees proposing marriage! Yes, it ended as he hoped!
Just last week, the Avon hosted a small private event for a group of toddlers and their parents. The children sat, with masks, in the theatre to watch a 28-minute film. They were completely mesmerized and enchanted, as they experienced of what was undoubtedly their first time in a movie house.
In early December, we hosted our annual free holiday film (Elf), and this coming weekend, we are offering the Bolshoi’s version of The Nutcracker. We are doing all we can to ensure that the holidays, despite the pandemic, can be safely enjoyed. And, of course, we still offer new art house films every single week, to a small but loyal group of people who thank us profusely for being there.
This pandemic has once again cemented this beautiful, historic theatre’s role and mission as a welcoming place and a source of inspiration. The Avon is certainly challenged, but we’re not going anywhere! Wishing you all the joys of the season – from a Miracle on Bedford Street!
