The Castro Theatre

Renovated, and really looking nice on both the outside and inside. Heads up - if you are in the lodge or balcony, you will be walking downstairs to use a bathroom - though there is a nice bar upstairs. The front row, center, of the lodge is an excellent place to sit for shows at this theater.

Great venue! The staff were really kind and helpful. Something that seems to be so rare when it comes to concerts. I will say, I know its a concert, but the speakers where a little too loud. So loud it almost made it drowned out the music. And CMAT was incredible! What a performer. She's got incredible talent and stage presence.

Tonight's reopening was fabulous, especially with David Haggerty, the long time organist being sainted by the Sisters of Perpetuoant Indigenous as "The Phantom of the Castro," after he rose from the pit on the new organ. The tent like ceiling was amazing in restoration and brilliant colors, chandelier as well. One draw back was the theatre floor and the new seats, not a fan, but sitting in the balcony felt like old times. Concession bar has mostly alcohol, popcorn ran out, they need more popcorn machines and butter! But overall, happy to be back and knowing the theatre will be around for another hundred years.

I was there this evening to see a movie. I'm happy to see the Castro Theatre reopened after a successful renovation but there are so many corners cut in the experience that it becomes a distraction. As others have mentioned the poor sound quality and I second that. It's one channel coming from the front and so, mixed dialogue gets jumbled and loudness even gets distorted. The seats have all the comfort of a departure gate. They're horrible. The popcorn was stale - likely because they premade dozens of bags, presumably before they opened the doors and so there was nothing fresh about it. Nice touch with the organ coming up from the stage but in every way, this is a digital pipe organ. Sounds great - just not authentic. The concessions were as expensive as a mega-theatre. That was a surprise. If you're looking for the ultimate American theatre experience, visit The Stanford Theatre in Palo Alto. That's how it's done.

Wonderful venue. The entrance process could improve. One guest got screened at a time and had to go through multiple rounds of security screens. Once inside it’s lovely. New bathrooms (shared genders and single stall). Big bar with good cocktails. Comfortable seating and feels really clean. Oh and Jonathan Van Ness is fabulous 🤩

Gorgeously grand ceiling details! Caught a silent film with live music accompaniment. Really delightful evening in a bustling little neighborhood!

Visited the Castro Theatre recently (Sam Smith concert) and it was an amazing experience. The building is absolutely beautiful and full of history. From the classic architecture to the unique atmosphere inside, you can really feel the character and legacy of this place. The ambiance, charm, and historic vibe make it a must-visit spot in San Francisco. Truly a gem that captures the spirit of the city.