San Francisco's Castro Theatre Reopens After $41M Renovation

Controversial new seating configuration put to the test as historic venue welcomes back the public.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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After a two-year, $41 million renovation, San Francisco's iconic Castro Theatre has reopened with a new removable seating system, restored interiors, and a revamped organ. The reopening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a screening of the cult classic 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.' The changes, including flattening the raked floor and removing permanent seats to facilitate concerts, were controversial but backed by the theater's owners.

Why it matters

The Castro Theatre is a historic landmark and cultural hub for San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community. The renovation was necessary to keep the theater financially viable, but sparked debate over preserving its iconic design and character. The outcome will impact the future of this beloved venue and set a precedent for balancing preservation and modernization of legacy entertainment spaces.

The details

The $41 million renovation included removing the theater's permanent seating and installing a new system of motorized risers with removable seats, reducing capacity from 1,400 to 1,150 for movies. Other upgrades include restored ceilings and artwork, new bathrooms and concession stands, and a $1 million custom organ. The changes, backed by the theater's owners but opposed by some in the community, were necessary to make the venue financially viable for new operator Another Planet Entertainment.

  • The Castro Theatre closed for renovation on February 4, 2024 after a screening of 'Victor/Victoria'.
  • The theater reopened on February 6, 2026 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and screening of 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert'.
  • A special event honoring filmmaker John Waters is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

Another Planet Entertainment

The Berkeley-based concert promotion company that took over operations of the Castro Theatre in early 2022 and spearheaded the $41 million renovation.

Nasser family

The owners of the Castro Theatre since its opening in 1922, who backed Another Planet Entertainment's renovation plans.

David Hegarty

The Castro Theatre's organist since 1978, who collaborated on the design of the venue's new $1 million organ, one of the largest in the world.

Daniel Lurie

The Mayor of San Francisco who attended the Castro Theatre's reopening ceremony.

Rafael Mandelman

The President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors who attended the reopening ceremony and supported the renovation despite some community opposition.

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What they’re saying

“This is such a great day for the Castro. It is a community that constantly changes and stays connected to its roots and its spirit. And that is the spirit that today, in particular with everything happening, is so important. A spirit where we embrace everyone and where no one is illegal.”

— Scott Wiener, State Senator (sfchronicle.com)

“It was hard fought and I definitely had sympathies for people on all sides of the argument about what should happen to the theater. Ultimately I sided with the people who felt like the project needed to go forward because there was not another real alternative. I think we have to keep our eye on the building and make sure that we hold true to the promises that were made around film (screenings) and around queer representation.”

— Rafael Mandelman, President, San Francisco Board of Supervisors (sfchronicle.com)

“This isn't just the Castro neighborhood or even just San Francisco, and that's why we have made it a point not to cut corners and to do everything the right way.”

— Mary Conde, Senior Vice President, Another Planet Entertainment (sfchronicle.com)

What’s next

A special event honoring filmmaker John Waters is scheduled for March 17, 2026 at the newly renovated Castro Theatre.

The takeaway

The Castro Theatre's $41 million renovation, including the controversial decision to install removable seating, highlights the challenges of preserving historic entertainment venues while also making them financially sustainable. The outcome will set an important precedent for how San Francisco balances preservation and modernization of its iconic cultural landmarks.