In this edition of the “Sacred Houses Series,” we pay homage to the Roxie Theater in San Francisco, California, USA, as we continue to honor notable movie theaters worldwide.
The Roxie Theater, located at 3117 16th Street in San Francisco’s Mission District, is one of the oldest continuously operating cinemas in the United States. Its origins date back to the early 1900s, and over the years, it has undergone several name changes, including “The Poppy Theatre,” “The Rex,” and “The Gem.” In 1933, the theater was remodeled, and the name “Roxie” was adopted, and its distinctive neon marquee was installed.
In the late 1960s, the Roxie briefly functioned as an adult movie theater. However, in March 1976, film enthusiasts Robert Christopher Evans, Dick Gaikowski, Peter Moore, and Tom Mayer acquired and renovated the venue, transforming it into a center for art and independent films.
The Roxie Theater has a rich history of hosting various film festivals, such as the Frameline Film Festival, San Francisco IndieFest, and the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, among others. Today, it remains a cultural landmark committed to showcasing independent, foreign, and classic films to the San Francisco community.
You can visit the theater HERE.
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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