In this edition of the “Sacred Houses Series,” we pay homage to the historic Castro Theatre in San Francisco as we continue to honor notable movie theaters worldwide.
The Castro Theatre is a beautiful and historic movie palace located in the Castro District of San Francisco, California. It was designated as San Francisco Historic Landmark #100 in September 1976. The theatre was built by the Nasser Brothers (whose family still owns it) and designed by Timothy L. Pfleger, and it was completed in 1922. The California Churrigueresque façade pays tribute to the nearby basilica of Mission Dolores. The theatre has more than 1,400 seats, with approximately 800 downstairs and 600 on the balcony.
The Castro Theatre’s journey began in 1910 at 479 Castro Street. However, in the mid-1920s, it underwent a transformation, evolving into a retail store that is now home to Cliff’s Variety. This change was prompted by the construction of a larger Castro Theatre at 429 Castro Street, just a few doors away from its original location.
The theatre boasts luxurious, ornate decor with subtly curved walls and ceilings. It’s also noted for the dramatic “Mighty Wurlitzer” pipe organ, which was played before films and events. The large neon “Castro” sign is emblematic of both the theatre and the Castro District and is somewhat of an iconic symbol beyond the City of San Fransisco.
The Castro Theatre is not just a venue for movies but a cultural hub that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. It has been the stage for numerous film festivals and special events, often with an LGBT and multicultural focus. These include the San Francisco International Film Festival, Frameline: the SF International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, Noir City: The Film Noir Festival, the SF International Asian American Film Festival, the SF International South Asian Film Festival, Berlin and Beyond: German Film Festival, the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, SF Indiefest, the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, Midnites For Maniacs, and the Shock It To Me! Classic Horror Film Festival.
If you know of a theater that deserves recognition in our “Sacred Houses” series, please contact us and provide details about its location, name, and significance to you or your community. We are passionate about supporting local theaters and believe they should be celebrated alongside the more well-known historic venues.
The Other Cinema 
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