Architecturally, the Avalon Regal's atmospheric and Moorish Revivalist theme was conceived by Austrian-born architect John Eberson, who was nationally known for his exotic motifs.

Eberson was reportedly inspired by an ornate Persian incense burner he found in an antique market in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

[6] In June 2003, after 18 years, the Gardners closed the theater due to low attendance and operational cost of the building.

[citation needed] In 2008, the theater was purchased by Regina Evans, police chief of Country Club Hills, Illinois, and a state fund of $2.36 million, with the intent of reviving it as a cultural venue.

[8][12] In September 2018, Rapper and Chicago native Kanye West committed to help restore the theater, pledging to donate $1 million dollars.