In the summer of 2003, Los Angeles bid adieu to the Hollywood Palace, the regal, 76-year-old theater and club that for decades hosted the biggest names in music. Bing Crosby, Judy Garland and Louis Armstrong graced its stage in the '50s, followed by The Clash, Duran Duran, Prince and Nirvana the '70s, '80s and '90s. Those are tough acts to follow, but in September of 2003, Avalon Hollywood arose from the construction jumble to offer itself as the premiere nightlife destination north of Hollywood and Vine.