For movie palace fans, the castro is a dream come true. This 1920's deco/spanish/baroque theatre is an architectural marvel and it is sad that so many of these fine movie houses are gone forever. Before each show, the original organ rises from the orchestra pit and an organist plays a few old silent movie scores to the apreciative crowd. This is a majical place, especially when it is full. I ususally try to go to movie palaces in every city I visit. This is one of the best. Check it out!

Also, have a sip of water from the wonderful deco drinking fountains in the lobby.

The Castro Theatre is a well-preserved, ornate movie palace from 1922 with room for 1,400 and a well-known movie palace that's still very popular today. It became a registered landmark in 1977.

Art film exhibitor Mel Novikoff leased the theatre from the Nassers in 1976 and restored it to grandeur with the Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ installed by the Taylors from pieces wherever they could find the parts. The audience hears a live performance in the evening before the film.

The schedule of films varies from repertory cinema, festivals, and special first-run presentations under Novikoff and Anita Monga's dedication. Anita has been terminated from her film programmer position. Help her get rehired by writing to: Ted Nesser, c/o Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114; Don Nasser, Bay Properties, 870 Market St 1114, San Francisco, CA 94102; and Nasser Brothers, Central California Theatres Company, 851 Burlway Rd. 627, Burlingame, CA 94010, and buy your snacks and drinks prior to entering the theatre and boycotting the concession stands inside.

Tel: (415) 621-6120
Email: blcastrotheatre@aol.com

Muni 24, 33, 35, 37, F, K, L, M.