San Francisco’s Castro Theatre Will Reopen With a Sam Smith Residency

In February 2026, the Castro Theatre will reopen its doors after two years with a concert residency by British hitmaker Sam Smith, ushering in the 103-year-old movie palace’s new era as a concert and entertainment venue.

Smith, who was recently spotted filming a music video in San Francisco’s historic gayborhood, posted a TikTok video of themself under the Castro Theatre’s marquee with the words “coming soon.” Their residency, named after their new ballad, “To Be Free,” quickly sold out the first 12 concert dates between Feb. 10 and 28. Another four shows on March 3, 4, 6 and 7 were announced on Oct. 9, and yet another four shows on March 10, 11 13 and 14 were announced on Oct. 13. Tickets are available here.

Another Planet Entertainment, the production company that books Outside Lands and prominent venues such as Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, took over the Castro Theatre in 2022. The move sparked backlash from some movie enthusiasts, who objected to Another Planet deemphasizing film programming, removing the orchestra seats and flattening the raked auditorium.

Meanwhile, Another Planet has maintained that film will remain part of the Castro Theatre’s offerings, alongside concerts, talks, comedy shows and other events.

“Our goal is to activate and re-energize the building with equity, inclusion, and community at the forefront,” Another Planet CEO Gregg Perloff said in a statement. “We look forward to contributing to the vibrancy and economic health of the Castro while honoring its legacy as an LGBTQ+ landmark and cultural anchor.”

The Castro Theatre recently completed renovations, with upgrades to its HVAC, sound, lighting and video systems, as well as its restrooms and ADA accessibility. According to a press release from Another Planet, the auditorium floor has been reworked to allow flexibility for screenings, seated events and standing room-only shows. Another Planet projects that the theater will attract over 200,000 annual visitors, which could be a boon to the neighborhood’s bars, restaurants and other small businesses.