Friday, June 14, 2013

Avalon Theatre Elevator Installation

Illustration by Kim Abraham

From our friends at the Avalon Theatre...

The Avalon 2 Gets 'Elevated'

On June 24th, the Avalon will begin the project to install elevator access to Avalon 2 as the final project funded by the Avalon Legacy Campaign. In addition, the downstairs and upstairs lobby areas of theater 2 will be renovated, and new, fully accessible bathrooms will replace the existing restrooms. Avalon 2 will remain open throughout the construction.

Information about the renovations will be shared on our website, on Facebook and Twitter, and in the theater throughout the process.

Our thanks to the generous donors who made these renovations possible. We can't wait to unveil the results this fall!

Avalon 2 Renovation FAQs...

Why is theater 2 under construction?

The renovations are the last stage of the Avalon Legacy Campaign. The most notable change will be the much-requested addition of an elevator that will make theater 2 fully accessible. In addition, the downstairs and upstairs lobby areas of theater 2 will be renovated and new accessible restrooms will replace the existing restrooms. The new downstairs lobby will include a donor board recognizing those who generously gave to the Legacy Campaign.

Is the Avalon building an elevator to comply with ADA requirements?

No, the Avalon, because of the age of the building, is not required to install an elevator. The Board of Directors has, ever since the Avalon began operating as a nonprofit in 2003, made it a goal to make the entire theater handicapped accessible in order to better serve our community.

When does construction start?

Construction is scheduled to begin on June 24th.

What days/times will construction be going on?

Construction is scheduled between 7:00am – 2:30pm Monday through Friday.

How long will construction last?

We expect construction to finish in early fall.

Will the Avalon be closed during the renovations?

No, both screens will be up and running during the renovations, though weekday shows may start later in the day than usual.

Will the bathrooms be affected?

The existing men’s and women’s restrooms in theater 2 will be demolished to make way for the elevator, and new, fully accessible restrooms will be built as part of the project. Patrons attending shows in theater 2 will be directed to other restrooms during the construction process.

Will the entrance/exit to the theater be affected?

The walkway between the theater 1 and theater 2 lobbies will be blocked off during construction. Patrons will need to enter Avalon 2 from the outside.

Where will I purchase my tickets?

Tickets will be sold at the box office window or in the café just as they are now. Tickets may also be purchased online.

Will the café be affected?

No. The café will be open daily throughout the construction from 8am until 30 minutes after the start of the last show of the day.

Will the theaters still be available to rent for birthdays and events?

We will not be taking any bookings for birthday parties during the construction. Theater 1 will be available for evening rentals.

Where can I find the latest updates about construction progress?

Check the Avalon webpage or signs in the theater for the latest updates.