Avalon Purchases Bannings Tavern During Its Theatre’s 100th Anniversary Year

The Avalon Foundation purchased Bannings Tavern, completing its ownership of the entire Avalon Theatre Building in downtown Easton. Both the Bannings Tavern real estate and business were owned by Easton residents, Tom Haschen and Chef Stephen Mangasarian, along with other minority owners. The Avalon Board of Trustees had long seen ownership of the entire Theatre building as integral to its long-term plan, but it was Mr. Haschen who initiated the sale by approaching the Avalon to discuss his desire to divest of the property and business.

In discussing the sale, Haschen said, “I have long appreciated the tremendous value that the Avalon Foundation brings to our community. It was the decisive reason that I chose to invest on that corner in the first place and I am very pleased to play a part in the Foundation’s long-term sustainability through this sale.”

Because community-building is the cornerstone of the Avalon Foundation’s mission, community input will be solicited prior to finalizing plans for the usage of this expanded space. Al Bond, Avalon CEO, said, “Owning the corner opens up a wide range of possibilities for the Avalon Foundation both in the short and long term. This is a huge opportunity and we are determined to get it right.”

Founded in 1994 and located in Easton, Maryland, the Avalon Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c)3 charitable organization that began as a community theatre and has grown into the largest arts organization on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The Avalon enriches the lives of over 100,000 people each year through nearly 300 events, performances, educational programming and celebrations throughout the year. Both inside the historic Avalon Theatre and Stoltz Listening Room and outside throughout the community, the work of the Avalon Foundation is an integral part of life on the Eastern Shore. The Foundation employs a full-time staff of nine and relies on hundreds of volunteers and donors to accomplish its mission. For more information, visit the Foundation’s website: avalonfoundation.org.