The renovation of the historic theater drew attention from within the mainstream LGBTQ community, sparking debate about nostalgia for what the 100-year-old building represented and what it could be next.
SAN FRANCISCO (CN) — San Francisco is renovating its popular Castro Palace theater and approving major changes to the theater that some San Franciscoers have debated for months.
The Planning and Historic Preservation Commissions met for the first time Thursday to consider code changes to allow the $15 million redevelopment project to move forward.
The renovation of the historic theater drew attention from within the mainstream LGBTQ community, sparking debate about nostalgia for what the 100-year-old building represented and what it could be next.
In 2022, San Francisco residents learned that management had been signed with Another Planet Entertainment, a concert promoter based across the bay in Berkeley. Another Planet manages numerous prestigious venues throughout the Bay Area, including the Greek Theater in Berkeley, the Fox Theater in Oakland, and the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium and The Independent in San Francisco.
Another Planet’s renovation plans included installing an HVAC system and heating system, restoring murals and decorative elements, and adding a security gate to the front.
The company wants to remove the theater’s sloped floor and orchestral seating to make way for tiered platforms that will accommodate standing audiences and serve alcohol. The Nasser family, who have owned the theater since it opened in 1922, say the planned renovation is the only way to keep the company financially stable.
In February, the Historic Preservation Commission recommended that the Oversight Board extend monument status to the interior of the theater, since the exterior was a listed building in the 1970s. Many people protested in February, saying the 1,400-seat theater offered fellowship in shared experiences that included watching old-fashioned movies, joining in sing-alongs and just hanging out with like-minded people — many of whom had fled their home countries to San Francisco’s hometowns across the country to live their lives openly.
Public comments on Thursday lasted more than four hours. So many people stood waiting for comment that they had to be asked to temporarily leave.
Drag artist Donna Sachet, often referred to as the “First Lady of the Castro,” is supporting the renovation of San Francisco’s Castro Theater. (Screenshot via Courthouse News)
Drag artist Donna Sachet, known as “the First Lady of the Castro,” advocated for the theater’s redesign.
“We are entrusting our Castro Theater to a local community group willing and able to invest more than $15 million in a faded venue,” said Sachet.
The Friends of Castro Theater Coalition claimed Another Planet has not been transparent or inclusive with the LGBTQ community and has not signed an agreement promising to hold public community events during the 180 days it will be open.
Some speakers opposed serving alcohol indoors, noting that the removal of fixed seating has ruined other theaters — like San Diego’s North Park Observatory, which is now classified as a public nuisance.
Others have dubbed it “gentrification,” turning the theater into an expensive venue that only a few can afford. Tab Buckner said it was already too expensive for working-class people to enjoy private venues.
“Given the huge wealth gap in our region, are you going to make this any worse?” Buckner asked. “That’s no offense to our allies, but also keep in mind the types of venues that will be open frequently with these proposals. I can imagine that many straight men who drink heavily come out of the concerts.”
Some parents support the theater, which offers more capacity for various community events to revitalize the Castro neighborhood. A large group of homeowners who live near the theater also support the project.
The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved motions to allow nightly entertainment and interior and exterior modifications, including the removal of the permanent seats. They included some conditions, including that $1.1 million in conservation work must first be completed.
The planning commission then voted 4-2 to approve the planning code change and certification allowing bars to operate at night.
Another Planet pledges at least 25% LGBTQ programs – including a partnership with non-profit residency program Oasis Arts, which hosts local LGBTQ artists – and said it’s never aimed to focus on private events.
In addition, it must meet twice a year with the Castro Cultural Quarter and obtain at least half of the concessions from local companies.
Another Planet refused to register private and ticketed events. Commissioner Kathrin Moore said without her one could not be sure how affordable ticket prices would be – and the commission then decided to require reporting of free or discounted events.
“The problem with theater refocusing is that theater isn’t going to be as affordable as it is right now,” Moore said.
Moore, along with Commissioner Theresa Imperial, opposed approving the project. She said she was disappointed with the “unresponsiveness of the applicant”.
“Rarely have I seen that in a discussion as high profile as this one,” Moore said, thanking the audience for many passionate arguments to save the theater.
Categories:History, Regional
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