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Impresario Of Castro Street: An Intimate Showbiz Memoir

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Impresario of Castro Street: An Intimate Showbiz Memoir

by Marc Huestis

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6341 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	276 pages

John Capsis's memoir, "Impresario Of Castro Street," is a captivating journey into the world of San Francisco's iconic Castro Theatre. As the theatre's impresario for over two decades, Capsis played a pivotal role in shaping the venue's legacy and bringing countless legendary shows and performers to its stage.

In this in-depth review, we delve into the pages of Capsis's memoir, exploring his personal journey, the theatre's rich history, and the unforgettable stories behind some of the most iconic performances that graced the Castro stage.

John Capsis: The Impresario

John Capsis, The Impresario Of The Castro Theatre Impresario Of Castro Street: An Intimate Showbiz Memoir

John Capsis's love for the performing arts began at an early age. Growing up in San Francisco, he immersed himself in the city's vibrant theatre scene, attending countless shows and developing a deep appreciation for the power of live entertainment.

In 1979, Capsis's passion led him to the Castro Theatre, a majestic venue that had fallen into disrepair. With a vision to restore the theatre to its former glory, Capsis embarked on a journey that would forever change the course of his life.

Over the next two decades, Capsis transformed the Castro Theatre into one of the most beloved performance spaces in San Francisco. Under his guidance, the theatre hosted an eclectic mix of shows, from Broadway musicals to avant-garde performances, attracting a diverse audience that embraced the venue's unique spirit.

The Castro Theatre: A Historical Gem

The Castro Theatre, A Historical Landmark In San Francisco Impresario Of Castro Street: An Intimate Showbiz Memoir

The Castro Theatre opened its doors in 1922, showcasing silent films and vaudeville acts. Over the years, it evolved into a leading movie palace, hosting premieres and special events that drew the biggest names in Hollywood.

In the 1960s, the Castro Theatre became a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, hosting drag shows and other events that celebrated diversity and inclusion. By the time Capsis took over as impresario, the theatre had become a beloved landmark, deeply rooted in San Francisco's cultural fabric.

Legendary Shows and Unforgettable Performers

Under Capsis's leadership, the Castro Theatre witnessed some of the most iconic performances in its history. These included:

Barbra Streisand: The legendary singer and actress graced the Castro stage in 1986, delivering a sold-out performance that left audiences spellbound.
The Who: The British rock band performed two legendary shows at the Castro in 1989, showcasing their explosive energy and unforgettable anthems.
The Grateful Dead: The iconic San Francisco band played multiple shows at the Castro throughout the 1980s and 1990s, creating unforgettable memories for their devoted fans.
RuPaul's Drag Race: The popular reality TV show filmed several episodes at the Castro, showcasing the talents of drag queens from around the world.

Behind the Scenes: The Impresario's Journey

Beyond the glamour and excitement of the stage, Capsis's memoir provides a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of being an impresario. He shares stories of booking legendary acts, managing demanding performers, and navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry.

Capsis also reflects on the Castro Theatre's role in the LGBTQ+ community, showcasing its importance as a safe and inclusive space where diverse voices could be heard.

"Impresario Of Castro Street" is a captivating memoir that transports readers into the heart of San Francisco's vibrant theatre scene. Through John Capsis's intimate storytelling, we experience the magic of the Castro Theatre, the passion of legendary performers, and the transformative power of live entertainment.

Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, a fan of San Francisco history, or simply appreciate the art of storytelling, this memoir is a must-read. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring legacy of a beloved performance space.

Impresario of Castro Street: An Intimate Showbiz Memoir

by Marc Huestis

4.7 out of 5