Hamilton’s historic Avon Theatre hits the market for $3 million

A piece of Hamilton history is officially on the market as the Avon Theatre on Ottawa Street North looks for a new owner.

The streamline moderne building, which carries a price tag of just under $3 million, has been owned by Bill Jarman for over a decade. Jarman, an antique dealer, purchased the property as a passion project back in 2014.

“I like the bones of the theatre. It was built in 1941,” Jarman said, noting his appreciation for the building’s art deco style. He added that it is time for a new owner because he hasn’t been using the space to its full potential.

Originally built in 1941 as the Avalon, the 770-seat theatre has changed hands several times over the decades. Jarman currently uses the building to store antiques and occasionally host auctions. He says he would now like to see the property go into “better hands” to reach its full potential.

Matt Phillips, a sales representative with CV Real Estate, said there has been significant interest in the listing from both local buyers and those across the GTHA. Phillips noted that potential buyers have pitched several different ideas for the space, ranging from a co-working hub to restoring it as a cinema or music venue, similar to the restoration of the Westdale Theatre.

The theatre has remained a staple on Ottawa Street for decades and holds deep nostalgic value for many residents. Jennifer Horgan, who grew up in the area, recalls walking to the theatre to meet friends and seeing the movie Grease there in the 1970s. She remembered a time when moviegoers would visit the nearby Ward’s Diner for a milkshake before a show.

Stephanie Weiler of the Ottawa Street BIA said many in the community would love to see the building become a venue for music and connection. She noted she would like to see the site serve as a hub for community building.

As for Jarman, he said he has other ideas he would like to explore once the theatre finds a new owner.

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