Article Contributed by Falcon Publicity
Published on November 4, 2025
Following a $41 million renovation and careful historic restoration by the Bay Area’s Another Planet Entertainment (APE), the historic Castro Theatre will celebrate its grand reopening in February 2026, with international sensation, Sam Smith for their “To Be Free: San Francisco” twenty-night residency. Today, November 4, APE is pleased to announce the first round of shows confirmed for the return of the beloved cultural landmark, featuring Amber Mark, Alaska, Father John Misty, Jonathan Van Ness, Lucy Dacus, The Breeders, Santigold and many more. Tickets for all new shows go on sale November 7 at 10am PT at thecastro.com.
The Castro makes its grand return in a new era of programming that bridges cinematic tradition, live music, comedy, community gatherings and service to the LGBTQ+ communities for whom the venue is a treasured asset. Stay tuned for film screenings and more to be announced soon! Newly announced shows include a variety of talents from 49th & Main, Perfume Genius and Alyssa Edwards to MARO, José González and Santigold. Plus, some not-to-miss two night runs featuring Father John Misty on March 24 & 25, The Format on April 16 & 17, and Lucy Dacus on May 18 & 19. In addition, The Castro will also help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Frameline Film Festival June 17-27.
The Castro Theatre is pleased to welcome:
February 10 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 11 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 13 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 14 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 17 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 18 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 20 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 21 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 24 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 25 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 27 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
February 28 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 3 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 4 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 6 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 7 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 10 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 11 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 13 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 14 Sam Smith – SOLD OUT
March 18 Amber Mark
March 20 Alaska
March 21 49th & Main
March 24 Father John Misty
March 25 Father John Misty
March 26 Perfume Genius
March 28 Tycho
March 31 Nick Lowe
April 8 Gayme Show w/ Matt Rogers and Dave Mizzoni
April 11 Alyssa Edwards
April 14 On Cinema Live! w/ Tim Heidecker and Gregg Turkington
April 16 The Format
April 17 The Format
April 18 Vandelux
April 19 CMAT
April 25 Alice Phoebe Lou
April 26 Jessica Kirson
April 28 MARO
April 30 Jonathan Van Ness
May 3 José González
May 16 Santigold
May 18 Lucy Dacus
May 19 Lucy Dacus
August 22 The Breeders
June 17-27 Frameline Film Festival *screenings TBA
Under APE’s stewardship, the century-old venue has undergone a comprehensive renovation, restoring its architectural splendor while upgrading mechanical systems, accessibility, acoustics, and patron amenities. The refreshed neon blade & marquee, decorative ceiling, and restored chandelier signals the reborn destination for cultural life in the Castro neighborhood and beyond. Inside, the sloped auditorium floor has been reimagined with new telescoping tiers that allow for flexibility between seated shows, film screenings, and standing-room events. Meanwhile, upgraded HVAC, sound, lighting, video systems, additional public restrooms, and expanded ADA accessibility will enhance both the fan and artist experience.
The reopening of The Castro Theatre is poised to deliver meaningful economic gains to the surrounding neighborhood — especially for restaurants, retail, cafés, and bars that rely on cultural foot traffic. APE projects the venue will draw 200,000+ visitors annually, reenergizing business corridors and stimulating local employment.
For the LGBTQ+ community, the venue has long been a symbolic and literal gathering place. Its revival reaffirms its role as a beacon of queer culture, affirmation, and visibility — extending beyond film to performances, panels, and celebrations that reflect the diversity and resilience of the community.
Additional booking announcements and programming details for 2026 will be rolling out very soon. The reopening underscores APE’s commitment to preserving the venue’s roots in film and community. The theatre will welcome back music, comedy, film, community events, and private events that will diversify how The Castro Theatre serves San Francisco and its communities.
