San Francisco · Est. 1922
Preservation Foundation
Historical Landmark No. 100 · An International Cultural Icon
Mission Statement
The Castro Theatre Preservation Foundation is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the historic Castro Theatre as an international cultural landmark. Through grants and targeted fundraising, we safeguard the Theatre's architectural integrity and ensure its continued role as a community hub for cinema, arts, and cultural events.
Our Focus Areas
Cinema will remain at the heart of the Castro Theatre. Keeping film as an integral component of the theatre’s programming is one of Castro Theatre Preservation Foundation’s (CTPF) missions. This includes ensuring that the Theatre continues be a home for a wide range of film festivals such as, but not limited to, Frameline, one of the largest LGBTQ+ performing arts organizations, who the Jewish Film Festival, Arab Film Festival, Cinema Italia, Third I South Asian Independent Film Festival, Berlin and Beyond, and the Silent Film Festival. As part of this mission, CTPF is working to support the multi-million dollar investment in film infrastructure, such as a mechanical tiered raked floor system providing enhanced sightlines, 7.1 surround-sound cinema audio system, and a new state-of-the-art movie screen.
CTPF is focused on continuing the legacy of the Theatre’s programming, including the Theatre’s ability to host a series of varying and diverse events—especially those that uplift LGBTQ+ programming in an affirming and positive manner that honors the Castro community, such as the Annual Holiday Gay Men’s Chorus performance, PRIDE activities, and Harvey Milk Day. CTPF plans to work with other non-profit organizations to establish a grants program to subsidize performing LBGTQ+ artists, filmmakers, and local community groups.
Although a new customized organ has been designed and built by the Castro Organ Devotees Association (CODA) at a cost of approximately $1 million. One of CTFP’s missions is to ensure that the Theatre has the proper infrastructure to support the new organ for generations to come. This includes creating education surrounding the organ, a fund for maintenance and repair, and other resources.
A Century of Stories
Over a hundred years of cinema, community, and culture in the heart of San Francisco's most iconic neighborhood.
June 22, 1922
The Castro Theatre first opened, thanks to the Nasser brothers — one of the oldest families in San Francisco's film industry.
1930s
The renowned neon "CASTRO" sign and signature Art Deco decorative upgrades were completed.
1967
Designated San Francisco Historical Landmark No. 100, the Theatre began supplementing first-run presentations with LGBTQ+ programming.
1980's
Hosted the opening night of the SF Lesbian/Gay Film Festival and the world premiere of "Buddies," the first film to address the AIDS crisis.
Early 2000's
The façade was restored and featured in the film "Milk," the story of California's first openly gay elected official.
2010's
Hosted RuPaul's Drag Race contestants and the funeral of Gilbert Baker, creator of the rainbow pride flag.
2022 – 2024
Reopened under Another Planet Entertainment, who launched a $41 million historic restoration and renovation project.
February 2026
The Castro Theatre reopened its doors to the public — a new chapter begins.
Giving Levels
Your generosity helps preserve a century of cinema, community, and culture for generations to come.
Oscar
$1,000,000 or more
Big Screen
$500,000
Front Row
$250,000
Orchestra
$100,000
Grand Tier
$50,000
CHOOSE YOUR OWN AMOUNT
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Leadership
Phil Tagami
President & CEO, CCIG
For over 34 years, Phil has served as a developer and consultant on projects representing hundreds of millions in rehabilitation and new construction, with expertise in tax credits, grants, and complex infrastructure.
Caroline Marringa
Board Director
A Bay Area native and Fit Health Coach, Caroline has designed and managed fitness centers throughout California for 45 years, bringing deep appreciation for diverse cultural expression to the Foundation.
Paul Sullam
Professor Emeritus, UCSF
Professor Emeritus of Medicine at UCSF specialising in infectious diseases. Prior to retirement in 2022 he published over 100 scholarly articles and has been a lifelong devotee of Cinema Italia and the SF Silent Film Festival.
David Perry
Founder/CEO, David Perry & Associates
Recipient of the "Exceptional Business Award" from the SF Business Arts Council. Has represented the Lucas Museum, Port of San Francisco, America's Cup, Super Bowl 50 Committee, and seven San Francisco Mayoral administrations.
Dan Serot
VP Business Affairs, Another Planet Entertainment
An entertainment and real estate attorney who has worked closely with the Nasser Family since 2020 to develop a long-term preservation plan for the Theatre, including the current $41M restoration.
The Castro Theatre belongs to all of San Francisco — and to all who have been moved by the magic of cinema and community within its walls. Your support keeps that magic alive.