The Castro Theatre will welcome the public for a special Community Opening on Friday, February 6, following a $41 million renovation and restoration led by Another Planet Entertainment. Announced on Thursday, January 8, the event marks the first opportunity for guests to step inside the renewed landmark, offering a film screening and a celebration of the neighborhood’s cultural legacy.
The evening on Friday, February 6 will feature a 35mm presentation of The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, chosen to honor the theatre’s long-standing identity as a cultural and LGBTQ+ landmark. The screening also serves as the 20th Anniversary fundraiser for the Castro Community Benefit District, the nonprofit dedicated to neighborhood beautification, safety, and cultural preservation.
Gregg W. Perloff, CEO of Another Planet Entertainment, emphasized the significance of the partnership. He noted that the Castro Community Benefit District has long been a vital advocate for LGBTQ residents, visitors, and the many small businesses that define the neighborhood. Perloff added that hosting a benefit screening for the organization is a fitting way to reopen the theatre and acknowledge its role as a cultural icon.
Andrea Aiello, Executive Director of the Castro Community Benefit District, described the event as a homecoming. She invited the community to be the first to experience the “New Castro,” highlighting the importance of preserving the queer history and culture that make the neighborhood a global beacon. Guests entering the theatre will see the extensive restoration firsthand, including the ceiling returned to its original colors and detail, the fully restored 1937 Art Deco chandelier, the mezzanine, and newly designed seating created for optimal film viewing in the multi‑use space.
Aiello noted that the evening will embrace the spirit of the Castro, encouraging attendees to dress in their best Priscilla‑inspired drag to enhance the celebratory atmosphere.
Doordash is an early sponsor of the event, joined by Alaska Airlines and Zoox. Information on supporting the fundraiser and the Castro Community Benefit District’s Neighborhood Beautification Fund is available at https://www.castrocbd.org/theatre.
The Castro Theatre, built in 1922 and designed by architect Timothy Pflueger, remains one of San Francisco’s most cherished landmarks. Its interior blends Spanish, Asian, Italian, and Art Deco influences, creating a distinctive and intimate movie palace. In 2022, Another Planet Entertainment entered an exclusive partnership with the theatre to undertake a major rehabilitation, preparing the venue for a wider range of entertainment including standing‑room musical performances while preserving seated experiences for cinema, comedy, and other programming.
The reopening will highlight the revitalized ceiling artwork, restored sgraffito murals, and a long‑hidden historic proscenium, all restored by Evergreene Architectural Arts. BuildIT, the world’s first LGBTQ construction advocacy organization, contributed specialized trade professionals to the project. Additional upgrades include modernization of the historic chandelier, revival of the neon blade sign and marquee, installation of the world’s largest and most versatile digital organ, a new HVAC system, additional restrooms, and fully ADA‑accessible orchestra, stage, and dressing rooms. These improvements ensure the theatre will continue to serve as an inclusive global beacon for cultural expression.
The Castro Theatre’s official website and social channels offer additional information and updates:
Website: https://www.castrotheatre.com
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