March 30, 2023
Going Out, March 31-April 7, 2023
Jim Provenzano READ TIME: 31 MIN.
We've got events, in abundance! Our online listings continue to grow, now that venues have opened and arts and nightlife events fill our weekly schedule.
ARTS
(Click here for listings of LGBTQ movies, TV series, podcasts and community organizations.)
DANCE, OPERA, THEATER
"Always ... Patsy Cline"
@ 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa
6th Street Playhouse's production of Ted Swindley's music-filled biographical play about the legendary Country singer-songwriter's friendship with a devoted fan; extended thru April 30. $28-$45. 52 West 6th St. https://6thstreetplayhouse.com/
"Blithe Spirit" @ City Lights Theater, San Jose
City Lights Theatre Company's production of Noël Coward's ghostly 1941 comic play. $26-$54. thru April 23. 529 S. Second St. https://cltc.org/event/blithe-spirit/
"Cambodian Rock Band" @ Berkeley Repertory
Lauren Yee's drama-comedy about a Khmer Rouge survivor and his war criminal-hunting daughter, with rousing live rock music by Dengue Fever. $24-$97; thru April 2. Roda Theatre, 2015 Addison St. https://www.berkeleyrep.org/
"Clue" @ SF Playhouse
Sandy Rustin's farcical stage play based on Jonathan Lynn's screenplay and the popular board game. $30-$100; thru April 22. 450 Post St. www.sfplayhouse.org
Cuba Caribe Festival @ ODC Theater, Dance Mission Theater
17th annual festival of dance, music, master classes and parties; performers include Alayo Dance Company, Alafia Dance Ensemble, Los Lupeños de San José, Agua Doce Dance, Cuicacalli, Embodiment Project, La Unión Matancera, Batey Tambó and others. $25-$35; thru April 10. ODC Theater, 3153 17th St; Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th St. https://www.cubacaribe.org/2023
Dance Mission Theater
Dance and performance space; also classes in many forms. 3316 24th St. https://dancemissiontheater.org/
"Dear San Francisco" @ Club Fugazi
The 'high-flying love story' weaves local history with acrobatic theatrics and live music by The 7 Fingers company, now with new cast members, and a full food and beverage menu, celebrated its one-year residency; extended run. Through March, a portion of ticket sales benefit seven local community nonprofits. $35-$99. 678 Green St. https://www.clubfugazisf.com/
"A Distinct Society" @ Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
TheatreWorks Silicon Valley's production of Kareem Fahmy's play about a quiet library that straddles the United States and Canada and becomes the battlefield for border control amid the Muslim travel ban. $30-$50. April 5-30. 500 Castro St., Mountain View. https://theatreworks.org/
"English" @ Berkeley Repertory
West Coast premiere of Sanaz Toossi's Obie Award-winning seriocomic play about Iranian adult students facing cultural challenges in learning English. $31-$106. March 31-May 7. 2025 Addison St. https://www.berkeleyrep.org
"Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Hamer" @ Lucie Stern Theatre, Palo Alto
Silicon Valley TheatreWorks' production of Cheryl L. West's musical about the pioneering singer and Black voting rights activist. $35-$77; thru April 2. 1305 Middlefield Road. https://theatreworks.org/
"Jack Absolute Flies Again" @ Hammer Theatre, San Jose
in-person and online screenings of the UK's National Theatre production of Richard Bean and Oliver Chris' comic play about a fighter pilot and a young heiress; based on Richard Brinsley Sheridan's 'The Rivals.' $17-$20. March 30, 7pm. 101 Paseo De San Antonio , San Jose, and online. https://hammertheatre.com/
Jason Stuart @ The Throckmorton, Mill Valley
The gay comic and actor performs his new stand-up act. $25-$35. April 4, 8pm. 142 Throckmorton Ave. https://www.throckmortontheatre.org https://www.jasonstuart.com
"Locusts Have No King"
@ New Conservatory Theatre Center
West Coast premiere of C. Julian Jiménez' darkly comic play about four gay priests at a contentious dinner party. $25-$31. April 7-May 14. $25-$65. 25 Van Ness Ave. www.nctcsf.org (Read our feature article.)
Margaret Jenkins Dance Company
Through March, 'Encounters Over 60,' weekly talks with acclaimed women choreographers; at various venues. https://www.mjdc.org/encounters
"Merrily We Roll Along" @ Gateway Theatre
42nd Street Moon's production of the under-appreciated Stephen Sondheim/George Furth musical about friendship, told in reverse. $35-$80. March 23-April 9. 215 Jackson St. https://42ndstmoon.org/
"Mondragola" @ Berkeley City Club
Gary Graves' comedy about Machiavelli. $35-$40; thru April 16. 2315 Durant Ave. https://centralworks.org/
Oakland Ballet @ Oakland Asian Cultural Center
The company performs their Dancing Moons Festival, featuring works by AAPI choreographers Phil Chan, Seyong Kim, Elaine Kudo, and Caili Quan. $40-$100. April 7 & 8 at SF's Presidio Theatre, 99 Moraga Ave. www.oaklandballet.org
ODC/Dance @ YBCA
The acclaimed local dance company's Dance Downtown home season includes world premieres by Brenda Way and Amy Seiwert, and repertory works by Way, Dexandro Montalvo, KT Nelson and Kate Weare. $25-$100. March 29-April 2 (Gala fundraiser March 31, $190 and up). LGBTQ+ night is on April 1, with free admission for anyone in drag (no fooling!), and an after-party hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Honey Mahogany. Blue Shield of California Theater, 700 Howard St. https://odc.dance/downtown
"Poor Yella Rednecks" @ A.C.T.'s Strand Theater
A.C.T.'s production of the second chapter of Qui Nguyen's hip-hop trilogy about a Vietnamese family who swap war-torn Saigon for rural 1970s Arkansas. $25-$60. March 30-May 7. 1127 Market St. https://www.act-sf.org/
"Private" @ Potrero Stage
SF Bay Area Theatre Company's production of Mona Pirnot's play about privacy rights and personal intimacy. $10-$40; thru April 2. 1695 18th St. www.sfbatco.org
Queering Dance Festival @ Live Oak Theater, Berkeley
New works by five local LGBTQ choreographers. $15-$40. April 1 & 2. 1301 Shattuck Ave. https://www.shawl-anderson.org/queeringdance
"A Raisin in the Sun" @ 6th Street Playhouse, Santa Rosa
6th Street Playhouse's production of Lorraine Hansberry's classic drama about a struggling Black family. $24-$44; extended thru April 2. 52 West 6th St. https://6thstreetplayhouse.com
San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Performing Arts Center
The company performs Christopher Wheeldon's 'Cinderella,' set to Sergei Prokofiev's score. $29-$455. March 31-April 8 (April 7 includes an LGBT Nite Out after-party). 301 Van Ness Ave. https://www.sfballet.org
San Francisco Opera
'Bohéme Out of the Box,' a mobile abridged version of the Puccini opera, is performed at Alameda, South San Francisco, Los Gatos and Dublin venues. Free; thru April 2. www.sfopera.com/
Sasha Velour @ Palace of Fine Arts
The talented drag performer's new show also celebrates her new book, "The Big Reveal: An Illustrated Manifesto of Drag." $45-$100, April 6, 8pm. 3301 Lyon St. https://palaceoffinearts.com/| (Read our interview.)
Solo Shows @ The Marsh
New and return engagements with acclaimed local storyteller/performers. Kathryn Keats' musical, 'The Hummingbird,' thru April 15. Brian Copeland's 'Grandma & Me: an Ode to Single Parents,' thru April 29. 'Adam Strauss is Not Unhappy,' March 10-31. 1062 Valencia St. At The Marsh Berkeley: Dan Hoyle's 'Talk to Your People,' thru April 15 (Fri. 7pm & Sat. 5pm). Don Reed's 'The Never Too Late Show,' extended, April 1-30. Fred Pitts' 'Aren't You...?' 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley ($10-$35). www.themarsh.org
"Strands for Trans"
Online events with performances by Billy Porter and others celebrating transgender people. March 31, 1pm. https://strandsfortrans.org/
"Sweat" @ Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek
Center Repertory Company's production of Lynn Nottage's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama about a group of factory workers facing layoffs. $45-$70; thru April 16. 1601 Civic Drive. https://www.lesherartscenter.org/
Tenderloin Arts Festival @ Various Venues
Inaugural festival of dance, theater, drag, music and more, at CounterPulse, Hospitality House, Aunt Charlie's Lounge and in parks. April 6-29. https://counterpulse.org/event/tlartsfest/
Theyfriend Nonbinary Performance Festival
Streaming version of the arts festival, with writer-performer Rawiyah Tariq, multimedia artist Sharmi Basu, musician Tyler Holmes, with performances and video from national and international contributors. $5-$15. thru March 31. www.eventbrite.com
Transgender Day of Visibility
@ SOMArts Cultural Center
Evening of talks and performances by Mateo Briscoe, Dylan McKeever, Laksha Dantran, the Bay Area Trans Masc Calendar, and Bionka Simone. Gabby from the Transgender District will speak about current issues, also DJ Rapture. Free. March 31, 5:45pm-9:30pm. 934 Brannan St. www.eventbrite.com
LITERARY/LECTURES
Events @ The Green Arcade
Bookstore presents author readings often with California and social justice themes. 1680 Market St. https://thegreenarcade.com/
Jim Van Buskirk @ Jewish Learning Works
The gay historian and author presents 'Unpacking My Grandmother's Suitcase,' his fascinating talk about his family's opera history. Free. April 2, 2pm. 1835 Ellis St. https://jewishlearning.works
LGBT Events @ Fabulosa Books
Author readings, in-store and online monthly (4th Saturdays) book club group discussion of literary works, 8:30pm-10pm. March 30, 7pm: Lucy Jane Bledsoe ('Tell the Rest'). April 4, 7pm: a diverse panel of local LGBT authors (Dior J. Stephens, Shobha Rao, Matthew Clark Davison, Baruch Porras-Hernandez, and Julian Delgado Lopera) read from their current work to celebrate Miah Jeffra's latest novel, 'American Gospel.' April 11, 7pm: Matt Albo discusses his new Young Adult SciFi novel, 'Another Dimension of Us.' 489 Castro St. https://www.fabulosabooks.com/
Love on the Page @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
'Writers on the Stage, a reading with authors Swetha Amit, Matthew Clark Davison, Matt Hose, Monique Jenkinson, K.M. Soehnlein and Jake Warren. April 3, 7pm. 1901 Ashby Ave. https://shotgunplayers.org/
"Queer Words"
Listen to online literary chats hosted by author Wayne Goodman, with guests Kelliane Parker, Brian Broome, Michael Nava, Vi Khi Nao, Anne Shade, Brontez Purnell, Christopher Castellani, the late Leslie Cohen and many others. https://queerwords.org/
SF Public Library
Online and in-person author events; 'I Still Love You: Queerness, Ancestors and the Places that Made Us,' a unique, intimate and community-based exhibit co-curated by local queer women of color artists Tina Bartolome and Natalia M. Vigil; thru June 29. Also, check out books and DVDs, see various book-themed exhibits. 100 Larkin St. www.sfpl.org
MUSIC
Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center
International music and dance concerts at the East Bay venue celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special schedule of concerts. 1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. https://www.ashkenaz.com/
Betty Who @ The Warfield
The fun queer pop singer stops through on her new tour; Shea Couleé opens. $30-$55. March 31, 8pm. 982 Market St. http://www.bettywhomusic.com/
Cal Performances @ UC Berkeley
Music and dance concerts and more. Zellerbach Hall, Bancroft Way at Dana St., Berkeley. calperformances.org
Connie Champagne @ Martuni's
The talented local singer returns as Judy Garland in 'Fool in Love,' a new concert of songs, with accompanist JR Kennedy, at the intimate martini bar. $40. April 1, 7pm; April 2, 7:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.eventbrite.com
Feinstein's at the Nikko
The upscale nightclub presents cabaret concerts. Stage star Samantha Pauly ('Six,' 'Evita') performs her new cabaret concert, March 31 & April 1, 8pm ($65). Meow Meow's unique cabaret concert, April 5, 8pm ($69). Broadway star Caissie Levy ('Frozen,' 'Ghost, 'Les Miserables') performs April 7 & 8, 8pm ($89). Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. https://www.feinsteinssf.com/
Freight & Salvage
Music venue presents folk, rock, blues musicians and more. March 31, 8pm: Mary Gauthier performs songs from her new album, 'Dark Enough to See The Stars ' with her partner Jaimee Harris, who also opens. (Read our 2022 interview.) $22-$26. 2020 Addison St, Berkeley. https://thefreight.org/
Great American Music Hall
Enjoy live music at the classic venue. 859 O'Farrell St. https://gamh.com/
The Lost Church
Intimate music and theater venue presents local and touring performers in a variety of styles. 988 Columbus Ave. https://thelostchurch.org/
Noe Music
In-person and online concerts in many genres; classical, folk, early music. 1021 Sanchez St. https://www.noemusic.org/
Noontime Concerts @ Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
Enjoy concerts in a variety of genres, Tuesdays at 12:30pm. 660 California St. www.noontimeconcerts.org
Old First Concerts
Enjoy in-person, live-streamed and archived music concerts of classic and contemporary music. 1751 Sacramento St. https://www.oldfirstconcerts.org
Queer Vibes @ SF Center
LGBT musicians perform a variety of genres; in-person shows return. www.eventbrite.com
San Francisco Performances @ Herbst Theatre
Chamber music, classical, vocal concerts and recitals. April 1, 7:30pm: Chiaroscuro Quartet. April 5, 7:30pm: Modigliani Quartet. April 8, 7:30pm: Mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke and guitarist Jason Vieaux. $45-$65. 401 Van Ness Ave. http://sfperformances.org/
San Francisco Symphony @ Davies Symphony Hall
In-person and online concerts. 201 Van Ness Ave. http://www.sfsymphony.org/
SF Jazz
The acclaimed venue presents their concert series. 201 Franklin St. https://www.sfjazz.org
SF Live Arts @ Cyprian's
Concerts by acclaimed musicians in a variety of genres. 2097 Turk St. https://sflivearts.org/
Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus
@ Santa Clara University Recital Hall
The chorus performs 'Bloom,' a concert of works by musical theater LGBTQ composers and lyricists. $30. April 1, 8pm; April 2, 3pm. 114 Franklin St., Santa Clara. https://svgmc.org/
Sweetwater Music Hall, Mill Valley
Intimate restaurant, nightclub and music venue presents all kinds of music, in the historical Masonic Lodge. 9 Corte Madera Ave. https://sweetwatermusichall.com/
Yoshi's
The elegant nightclub-restaurant features jazz and R&B musicians. 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. https://yoshis.com
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
111 Minna Gallery
Downtown gallery exhibits vibrant contemporary artworks. Seventh Son Tattoo presents 'Year of the Tiger,' a group exhibition of stunning contemporary tiger-themed art; thru March 23. March 30 & 31: ArtSpan's juried benefit art auction. 111 Minna St. 111minnagallery.com
Acion Latina
Community organization sponsors events, and hosts exhibits in its gallery. 2958 24th St. https://accionlatina.org/en/
Angelic/Trimble Gallery
Rigo 23's 'February 31st with the Angola-3' thru April 29. 1275 Minnesota St. https://www.anglimtrimble.com/
Arion Press Gallery
Print and design art exhibits. 1802 Hayes St., The Presidio. https://gershoni.com/culture/dyslexic-dictionary
ArtHaus
Gallerists James Bacchi and Annette Schutz showcase multiple visual artists. 228 Townsend St. http://www.arthaus-sf.com/main-gallery/
Art Visit
Meet with visual artists in your area at their studios. https://artvisit.org
Art Works Downtown, San Rafael
Exhibits of works by local artists. 1325 4th St., San Rafael. http://artworksdowntown.org/
Asian Art Museum
New: 'Beyond Bollywood: 2000 Years of Dance in Art,' a multimedia showcase of dance, bringing a wide array of sculpture, painting, textiles, jewelry, photographs, and more. March 31- July 10; opening party April 8, 6pm with Nonstop Bhangra. 'Into View: Bernice Bing,' 20 works by the contemporary artist, thru June 26. (Read our feature article.) 'Color Trip: Yoshida Hodaka's Modern Prints,' thru May 1. Fri-Mon 10am-5pm. Thu. 1pm-8pm. 200 Larkin St. asianart.org
Berkeley Art Center
Diverse arts exhibits. 1275 Walnut St., Berkeley. https://www.berkeleyartcenter.org
Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive
'Endless Knot: Struggle and Healing in the Buddhist World,' thru June 11. 'Amalia Mesa-Bains: Archaeology of Memory.' 'Quilts, Blankets, and Tapestry: Contemporary Art and Textiles.' Pioneers of Queer Cinema, a touring two-month series, with screenings of 'The Times of Harvey Milk,' 'Tongues Untied,' 'Parting Glances,' 'Paris is Burning' and other classics. $5-$14. (Read our article) thru May 3. Also, March 17-19: Lizzie Borden presents her 'New York Feminisms Trilogy' films. 2155 Center St., Berkeley. www.bampfa.org
"Cacophonies of Resistance" @ Worth Ryder Art Gallery, Berkeley
Exhibition of works and performances by MFA students. 116 Anthropology and Art Practice Building, UC Berkeley. https://art.berkeley.edu/gallery
California Academy of Sciences
The fascinating science museum includes live creatures (aquarium, terrarium) and educational exhibits. 'Bugs,' a fascinating giant-plants-scale insect-view exhibit. 'Wander Woods,' an outdoor kids and families play space. Also, 'Living Worlds,' a planetarium show. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. https://www.calacademy.org/
California institute of Integral Studies
Art and culture center hosts classes, workshops, exhibits. 1453 Mission St. http://www.artsatciis.org/
Cartoon Art Museum
New: 'Thor and Loki: Midgard Family Mayhem,' an exhibition of original artwork from the forthcoming book by Jeffrey Brown, thru Aug. 27. Robert Liu-Trujillo, creator of the children's book Furqan's First Flat Top' signs books in a Q&A, April 2, 1pm-3pm. 'An Edward Gorey Menagerie,' thru July 9. Meggie Ramm's art ('BatCat'), part of the Emerging Artist Showcase thru Aug. 6. Ongoing: 'The Batman Armory.' Open daily (except Wed.) 11am-5pm. 781 Beach St. www.cartoonart.org
Catharine Clark Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 248 Utah St. https://cclarkgallery.com/
Chabot Space & Science Center
Programs include live science programs each Wed., 10:30am, virtual telescope viewings each Sat. 9pm. Free/$15. 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland. chabotspace.org
Chinese Cultural Center
Exhibition of new work by Bay Area-based contemporary ceramic artist Cathy Lu. 750 Kearny St. https://www.cccsf.us/
Conservatory of Flowers
Beautiful indoor and outdoor floral exhibits in the classic arboretum; special events and parties, too. 100 JFK Drive, Golden Gate Park. Free/$12. www.conservatoryofflowers.org
Contemporary Jewish Museum
'Gillian Laub: Family Matters,' an exhibit of her family portraits. 'Cara Levine: To Survive I Need You to Survive,' thru July 30. 'L'chaim: Celebrating Our Building at 15,' thru June 9, 2024. Free/$16. 736 Mission St. thecjm.org
"Crossing Lines/Lineas que Cruzamos" @ SF Arts Commission Gallery
Two-person exhibition features the works of Mexican-born artists Arleene Correa Valencia and Georgina Reskala; thru April 29. War Memorial Veterans Building, 401 Van Ness Ave. https://www.sfartscommission.org
David Ireland House
Home converted into an intimate gallery of unusual art projects by the later artist and designer; also, Ann Hamilton's 'here, there, then, now,' a mixed media homage to Ireland's work. 500 Capp St. https://500cappstreet.org/ (Read our article.)
de Young Museum
New: 'Kehinde Wiley: An Archaeology of Silence,' an exhibit of stunning paintings and sculptures; thru Oct. 15. (Read our feature.) 'Ansel Adams in Out Time,' an exhibit of the renowned landscape photographer's prints, paired with 23 other environmental artists; April 8-July 23. 'Lhola Amira: Facing the Future,' The Obama portraits by Kehinde Wiley; collections of American, African, Oceanic, costume arts, sculpture and more. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. deyoung.famsf.org
Exhibits @ SF Public Library
Book displays at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, 3rd floor. Also, book exhibits on the 6th floor. 100 Larkin St. https://sfpl.org/
Exploratorium Events
'40 Years of Cinema Arts,' thru March; ¡Plantásticas! Our Lives With Plants' thru Sept. 10. Also, talks and demos with a science theme, including comet-cam and more; weekly After Dark nighttime parties (6pm-10pm) have returned; March 30: Trans Day of Visibility event. Pier 15. www.exploratorium.edu
Gallery Wendi Norris
Contemporary artists' works; María Magdalena Campos-Pons' solo exhibition, 'Finding Balance,' thru April 29. 436 Jackson St. https://www.gallerywendinorris.com
GLBT History Museum
New: 'Matchmaking in the Archive: 19 Conversations with the Dead and 3 Encounters with Ghosts,' a companion exhibit to E.G. Crichton's book about historic archival subjects. Also, 'Queer Past Becomes Present,' the original Rainbow Flag, and 'The Flag in the Map: Charting Rainbow Flag Stories,' 'Out in the World: Ireland's LGBTQ+ Diaspora.' Online exhibits include 'Stories of Our Movement: Bay Area Reporter at 50,' 'AIDS Treatment Activism,' 'Legendary: African American LGBTQ Past Meets Present, Fighting Back,' and other exhibits. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
Gregangelo Museum
Take tours at the 27-room mansion filled with eccentric unusual interactive artworks and performances. www.gregangelomuseum.com
Gray Area
Unusual and contemporary art exhibits and installations; 'TECHS-MECHS,' Rafael Lozano-Hemmer's immersive survey of Mexican technological culture; thru May 31. 2665 Mission St. https://grayarea.org/
Haight Street Art Center
Exhibit of rock music and 1960s photographer Herb Greene. Also, 'Enough is Enough: End Gun Violence.' Thu-Sun 12pm-6pm. 215 Haight St. https://haightstreetart.org/
Harvey Milk Photo Center
View exhibits of masterful photographic art; also online galleries. 50 Scott St. https://www.harveymilkphotocenter.org/
Headlands Center for the Arts
40th anniversary exhibits include 'Process + Place,' Mark Thompson's 'Semaphore,' a striking installation at the scenic arts center (paired with Ann Hamilton's 'here, there, then, now' at 500 Capp St.) 944 Simmonds Road, Sausalito. https://www.headlands.org/ (Read our article.)
Hunters Point Shipyard Artists
Gallery, artists in residence and open studios events throughout the year. 451 Galvez; 1 Rankin St. www.shipyardartists.com
Jenkins Johnson Gallery
Contemporary art exhibits. 1275 Minnesota St. https://www.jenkinsjohnsongallery.com
Land's End @ Former Cliff House
Group exhibit of artists' varied works where their charge is twofold: to discover artwork in unlikely places and to consider the planet's health. 1090 Point Lobos Ave. https://www.for-site.org
Legion of Honor
'Sargent and Spain,' an expansive exhibit of the painter's works created during his Spanish residency, thru May 14. (Read our feature on the exhibition.) Also, 'Michelle Erickson: Wild Porcelain,' thru April 2, and 'Paperworks: Fifteen Years of Acquisitions, thru June 25. European and ancient art, giant Renaissance landscapes and historic paintings, plus classical sculptures and contemporary works, from Degas, Manet, Caillebotte and Vuillard to Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts; also, Wangechi Mutu's fascinating modern outdoor and indoor sculptures. Tue-Sun, 9:30am-5:15pm. Free/$15. 100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park. legionofhonor.famsf.org
Letterform Archive
'Strikethrough: Typographic Messages,' an exhibit of varies protest movement posters and graphics by Emory Douglas, Favianna Rodriguez, Jenny Holzer, W.E.B Dubois, ACT UP, Amos Kennedy, Jr., Corita Kent, Atelier Populaire, Guerrilla Girls, Ben Shahn and others. 2325 3rd St. https://letterformarchive.org/
Lost Art Salon
Intimate gallery exhibits small and unusual works of note by contemporary and early 20th-century artists. 245 S. Van Ness. #303. https://lostartsalon.com
MAG Galleries
New art gallery presents its first exhibit, "Squint: Recent Photography by Chris Komater," pixilated portraits; thru March 26. 3931 18th St.
Manna Gallery
'Flux,' Elaine Maute's exhibit of paintings. Also, Orlando Smith retrospective. 473 25th St., Oakland. https://www.mannagallery.com/
Minnesota Street Art Project
Multiple galleries -Nancy Toomey Fine Art, Municipal Bonds, Eleanor Harwood Gallery, The Jones Institute and more- host different artist exhibits. 1275 Minnesota St. https://minnesotastreetproject.com/
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Exhibits of art by Latino artists, plus events. 2869 Mission St. missionculturalcenter.org
Museum of the African Diaspora
'Black Venus,' an exhibition surveying the legacy of Black women in visual culture from fetishized, colonial-era caricatures to the work of over 20 contemporary artists who are reclaiming the rich complexity of Black womanhood including Sadie Barnette, Deana Lawson, Zanele Muholi, Kara Walker, and Carrie Mae Weems; April 4-Aug. 20. Other exhibits include contemporary works by African and Black artists, and about Black culture; also, award-winning films, talks and music performances focusing on Black artists in multiple media. Free-$12. 685 Mission St. www.moadsf.org
Museum of Craft & Design
Innovative art and design exhibits. 2589 3rd St. www.sfmcd.org
NIAD Exhibits
The art studio for developmentally disabled adults shares in-person online exhibits and sells beautiful works of art; in-person window displays and weekly online exhibitions. www.niadartstore.org
Oakland Museum
'Angela Davis: Seize the Time,' an exhibit examining the image, influence, and activism of the Oakland-based icon; thru June 11. 'Black Power' and 'Dorothea Lange: Photography as Activism,' both ongoing. Friday night interactive displays and live music. 1000 Oak St., Oakland. museumca.org
The Pink and Purple Church in the Castro
Online multimedia exhibit documenting the history of Metropolitan Community Church, its LGBTQ-inclusive services and outreach through the AIDS pandemic. http://arspgallery.com/mccsf-exhibit-main/
"The Power of Creativity and Community"
@ City Hall Gallery
SFAC Galleries partners with Art With Elders for a group exhibition of works by diverse senior artists; thru Aug. 25. Ground Floor and North Light Court, 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Place. https://sfartscommission.org/
"Pride and Progress"
The Victory Fund's online exhibit showcases a timeline of LGBT political history. https://www.prideandprogress.org/
Queer Arts Featured
New LGBTQ-owned pop-up gallery set in the former site of Harvey Milk's camera shop. 575 Castro St. Donate to their emergency rent hike fundraiser. www.queerartsfeatured.com
"Queering the Crip, Cripping the Queer"
Online version of a new group exhibit at Berlin's Schedules Museum that explores the multiple historical, cultural, and political intersections of queerness and disability. https://queer-crip.schwulesmuseum.de/en/
Robert Koch Gallery
Edward Burtynsky's 'African Studies,' an exhibit of stunning landscape photography. 49 Geary St. https://kochgallery.com/
Root Division
Gallery hosts exhibits, classes, artist studios and events. 1131 Mission St. https://rootdivision.org/
Rosie the Riveter Historical Park, Richmond
Museum showcases the real women who built WWII planes, with films, events and talks. Open daily 10am-5pm. 1414 Harbour Way. https://rosietheriveter.org
San Francisco Historical Society Museum
Ongoing and new exhibits, and historian talks, of fascinating local history. Thu-Sat 10am-4pm. 608 Commercial St. https://www.sfhistory.org/
Schlomer Haus Gallery
New Castro/Duboce gay-owned art gallery; Hunter Harvey's 'Go West,' colorful queer versions of cartoon heroes; also Joseph Abbati's 'Shape Shifters: Queering the Metaverse,' thru April 29. 2128 Market St. Tue-Sat 12pm to 6pm and by appointment. https://schlomerhaus.com/
SF Botanical Garden
Beautiful spacious gardens with multiple plants, trees and flowers. Free entry for SF residents; others $3-$10. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. https://www.sfbg.org
SF Museum of Modern Art
'Bay Area Walls: Sadie Barnette,' 'Afterimages ,' SECA Art Award exhibition, with new works by several artists, thru May 29; Diego Rivera's massive 1940 mural 'Pan American Unity'; 'Conversation Pieces: Contemporary Furniture in Dialogue;' 'Sightlines: Photographs from the Collection;' also, Pop, Abstract, and Figurative art collections. Free/$25; reserved, timed ticketing. Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. First Thursdays free. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org
SOMArts Cultural Center
Various art exhibits and events. 934 Brannan St. www.somarts.org
Southern Exposure
Unusual art and installations and online projects. 3030 20th St. https://soex.org
Telematic
Gallery focusing on innovative experimental works in video and electronic media; Carla Gannis' 'Virtues and Vices: Voices from the wwwunderkammer; thru April 1). Saturdays, 1pm-6pm or by appointment. 323 10th St. https://www.tttelematiccc.com
Tenderloin Museum
New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. 'Legends of San Francisco,' an exhibit of 81 drag performer portraits by Harry James Hanson, Deb Leal, and floral designs by Devin Antheus; thru April 1. Also, 'Education for Action: California Labor School, 1942-1957.' thru July 1. 398 Eddy St. http://www.tenderloinmuseum.org/
Tunnel Tops @ Presidio
New outdoor beautifully landscaped area with scenic views, recreation, ranger talks, murals, and visiting food trucks. www.presidiotunneltops.gov
Vessel Gallery
The "F" Show, a group exhibit of works by women artists Cherisse Alcantara, Pamela Merory Dernham, Cheryl Patrice Derricotte, Christy Kovacs, & Cyrus Tilton; thru April 9; appointments only. Also online exhibits. 490 Lake Park Ave. #10022, Oakland. www.vessel-gallery.com
Walt Disney Family Museum
Located in The Presidio, the museum dedicated to the art of Disney films hosts online and in-person exhibits, classes and events. 104 Montgomery St. www.waltdisney.org
"We Were There"
Online tours of art museums, showcasing hidden and overlooked LGBT themes, subjects and artists. http://wewerethere.org/
"Worker"
Online exhibit showcases photos and historic paintings of sex workers by 19 artists, from the late 19th-Century of Edouard Manet and Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec to modern day contemporaries such as Felix Gonzalez-Torres, David Hockney, Nan Goldin, Bruce LaBruce and Margie Schnibbe. NSFW. www.artreporttoday.com
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Unusual modern art exhibits, film screenings, murals, and tours. Lobby art: Taravat Talepasand's 'Peace in the Middle East.' Also, 'Brett Cook & Liz Lerman: Reflection & Action,' a video, dance and multimedia installation, thru June 4. Alex Strada and Tali Keren's 'Proposal for a 28th Amendment? Is it Possible to Amend an Unequal System?' thru March 19. 701 Mission St. https://ybca.org
NIGHTLIFE
440 Castro
Friendly neighborhood bar has ample outdoor seating, and indoor drink specials, Monday underwear parties and two bars. 440 Castro St. http://www.the440.com/
The Academy
LGBTQ social club offers membership, plus public events; art exhibits, music, community talks, wine-tastings and more. 2166 Market St. www.academy-sf.com
After Dark @ Exploratorium
Evening cocktail parties at the interactive science museum, with different themes; Thursdays 6pm-10pm. Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St.) https://www.exploratorium.edu/
Asia SF
Dining, nightlife and classy drag performers mix at the popular SoMa club; dinner shows from $59-$79. 201 9th St. https://asiasf.com/
Aunt Charlie's Lounge
The intimate bar serves strong drinks and hosts frequent drag shows. 133 Turk St.
Beaux
Popular Market Street club, with drag entertainers, gogo studs, drinks and food. Shangri-La second Saturdays. Latin Divas Live 4th Saturdays, You/nique 3rd Saturdays. Big Top Sundays and Friday Manimal with studly gogos. Drag brunch Sat & Sun, 2pm & 4pm. Pan Dulce Wednesdays, and weekly 'Drag Race' viewings. 2344 Market St. https://www.beauxsf.com/
Blackbird
Classy Duboce area bar known for its artisanal cocktails. 2124 Market St. https://www.blackbirdbar.com/
The Cafe
Popular Castro nightclub with a dance floor and lounge areas, two bars, drag shows and gogo dancers on select nights; Picante Latin night on Thursdays. 2369 Market St. https://cafesf.com/
The Cinch
Historic bar in the Polk district. 1723 Polk St. http://www.cinchsf.com/
Club 1220
Walnut Creek's gay bar, with drag shows, karaoke and dance nights. 1220 Pine St., Walnut Creek. https://club1220.com/
Club OMG
Intimate mid-Market nightclub includes DJed dancing, drag shows and a karaoke night. 43 6th St. http://www.clubomgsf.com/
Curio
Rexy hosts 12pm & 2pm drag brunch shows with Kylie Minono, Kipper Snacks, Bionka Simone and other talents. 775 Valencia St. https://www.curiobarsf.com/
Detour
Castro bar and restaurant with pinball and arcade games; drag bingo Wed. nights. 2200 Market St. https://www.detoursf.com/
Dirty Habit, Hotel Zelos
Hotel's fifth-floor bar & restaurant hosts themed nights, crafted cocktails and heated rooftop elegant ambiance. 12 4th St. https://www.zhotelssf.com/
DNA Lounge
SoMa nightclub hosts many queer-friendly events. 475 11th St. https://www.dnalounge.com/
The Sisters' Easter @ Dolores Park
The celebrated drag nuns hold the 44th annual outdoor event, with live music, drag galore, kids egg hunt 10am; Honey Mahogany hosts the stage show, with Connie Champagne, Kitten on the Keys, Polesexual, Baloney, The Cockettes featuring Steven Satyricon, Trixxie Carr, Alex U Inn and The Mommaz Boyz, and more, plus the annual Hunky Jesus, Foxy Mary and Easter bonnet contests. Free. April 9, 11am-4pm. https://www.thesisters.org/
The Edge
Musical Wednesdays, the weekly Monster Show, Beards & Booze and other events have returned to the popular bar. 4149 18th St. www.edgesf.com
The EndUp
Historic SoMa nightclub hosts straight, gay and whatever late-night dance events. 401 6th St. https://theendupsf.com/
Eros
SF's queer sex club in a new location (site of the historic Bulldog Baths), open daily at 2pm to 10pm-12am; memberships available. 18+ only. $10-$30. 132 Turk St. www.erossf.com
Fireside Lounge, Alameda
Woman-owned LGBT-friendly bar with live shows, outdoor lounge, cool cocktails. 1453 Webster St. https://www.thefiresidelounge.com/
Golden Bull, Oakland
LGBT-friendly bar presents diverse live music acts; Queeraoke on 2nd and 4th Sundays at 7pm. 412 14th St. https://goldenbullbar.com/
Hi Tops
Popular sports bar with multiple TV screens, events, and an irresistible snack menu. 2247 Market St. https://www.hitopsbar.com/hi-tops-sf
The Hole in the Wall Saloon
Local rock DJs like Don Baird play at the SoMa 'friendly neighborhood gay biker bar.' 1369 Folsom St. https://blackwolfmetal.com/ Also, listen online: https://www.twitch.tv/donbaird
Jolene's
SoMa queer and woman/trans-owned nightclub and restaurant; Coyote Queer, second Saturdays, with DJs Koslov & Livv, costume contest. Queer Karaoke Thursdays; UHaul SF, Fridays. Sunday brunch drag show 11am-5pm. 2700 16th St. http://jolenessf.com/index.html
Last Call
Small, neighborhood bar with a fireplace and old school jukebox. 3988 18th St. https://www.thelastcallbar.com/
Lookout Castro bar with a panoramic view. Bounce (Sat. nights), Lips & Lashes Drag Brunch with host Carnie Asada (Sat. afternoons), Jock (Sunday nights). 3600 16th St. http://www.lookoutsf.com/
Lone Star Saloon
DJed events at the historic bear bar, plus regular nights of rock music and patio hangouts. April 6, 6pm-9pm, opening reception for photographer Jeffrey Braverman's 'Wild West Tarot,' an exhibit of icon cards portrayed by local community members (www.jeffreybraverman.com) 1354 Harrison St. https://www.lonestarsf.com/
Lyon & Swan
New gay-owned North Beach supper club with a diverse array of live cabaret acts; vocalists, jazz bands and comedy acts, including vocalist Marshall Forte, Saturdays thru April 29 (Read our feature article). Also, specialty cocktails and meals (closed Tue-Wed). 124 Columbus Ave. https://www.lyonandswan.com/
Martuni's
The intimate martini bar hosts music cabaret acts. Pianist Russell Deason hosts the fun weekly Monday Happy Hour open mic gathering. On last Sundays, 7pm, singer Carly Ozard hosts a monthly concert series (Read our interview), 5:30pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Midnight Sun
The popular bar celebrates 50 years; Timeline Tuesdays, Honeypot Fridays with gogo studs; Galaxy Saturday nights with DJ Lu; K-Pop and drag shows like Munro's at Midnight, 10pm Monday nights. plus Thursday Media Noche, and more. 4067 18th St. https://www.midnightsunsf.com/ (Read our interview with Media Noche host Betty Fresas.)
Milk SF
Queer cafe in the Mission offers coffee, pastries, food, local drag shows. Sober Karaoke on 4th Wednesdays, 6pm-9:30pm. 302 Valencia St. https://www.milk-sf.com/
The Mix
Castro bar with pool table, jukebox, popular patio. 4086 18th St.
Moby Dick
Popular neighborhood bar known for its colorful aquarium and tasty drinks celebrates 40 years. 4049 18th St. https://www.facebook.com/MobyDickBar/
Mother Bar
New women's bar at the former Esta Noche. 3079 16th St. https://www.instagram.com/motherbarsf/
Muevelo @ Que Rico, Oakland
Enjoy the new nightclub's weekly dance party with DJed grooves, drag divas, and gogo studs. Fridays, $10 and up, 9:30pm-3am. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
Oasis
The multiple award-winning nightclub's shows include: March 31, 7pm: Trans Day of Visibility Cabaret hosted by Vanilla Meringue with several performers. April 1, 7pm: singer Joey Arias. April 5-8, 7pm: Varla Jean Merman's 'Ready to Blow!' ($30-$50) Ongoing: Oasis Tea Dance with D'Arcy Drollinger, Yves St. Croissant and Per Sia, 4pm-8pm Sundays. Also, Princess, the weekly Saturday night drag show, 10pm-2am. Reparations, the Fridays all-Black drag show, 10pm-2am; Legacy, a trans women artistry night, Thursdays, 10pm-2am. Karaoke & Cocktails with Emma Peel, Tuesdays, 7pm-11pm. 398 11th St. www.sfoasis.com
Off the Grid @ Fort Mason Center
The popular nighttime food, drinks and music outdoor event returns. Fridays, 5pm-10pm thru June 23. https://offthegrid.com/event/fort-mason-center/
Pilsner Inn
Historic neighborhood bar (since 1980) with an easy vibe, pool table, an excellent beer selection, and a spacious back patio. 225 Church St. http://www.pilsnerinn.com/
Port Bar, Oakland
Shake It Up Saturdays and Juicy (also Saturdays); Women's night Sundays; Wednesdays are a Drag shows at 9pm, 10pm & 11pm; Big Gay Trivia with Jeremy Jones on Tuesdays; Thursdays, Karaoke Star hosted by Amoura Teese, who also hosts the Sunday Drag Brunch, 11:30am and 2pm. 2023 Broadway. www.portbaroakland.com|
Powerhouse Bar
Popular cruisy SoMa bar; Underwear Thursdays; Juanita MORE's Powerblouse (fun drag makeovers) 1st Saturdays, Glamamore's Pillows drag show on Mondays; and Beat Pig, 3rd Saturdays. 1347 Folsom St. https://www.powerhousebar.com/
Que Rico
LGBT Latinx nightclub features cute gogo guys and fun drag shows, DJed dance floor, brunch and dinner menus, too. 381 15th St., Oakland. www.quericonightclub.com
El Rio
The popular bar with a spacious outdoor patio hosts multiple LGBTQ events, including Hard French, Daytime Realness, Mango, live bands, comedy and more. 3158 Mission St. https://www.elriosf.com/
Rize SF @ Origin
New LGBTQ dance party with K-Pop and other styles, DJ DNZA, drag performer Miss Shu Mai; first and third Saturdays. 1538 Fillmore St. www.simpletix.com
Roller Disco @ Church of 8 Wheels
Roller-skating nights with groovy tunes, plus skate rentals. $5-$15. 554 Fillmore St. http://www.churchof8wheels.com/
SF Eagle
The famed leather bar has numerous events. BLUF Cigar Buddies 2nd Fridays; monthly Lair with host Suppository Spelling; Frolic cosplay/furry party, 2nd Saturdays, 8pm-2am, $8-$12. Sunday beverage bust, 3pm-7pm, $10-$15. Safe Words Comedy hosted by Wonder Dave, 7pm, 4th Wednesdays. 398 12th St. https://thesfeagle.com/
Steamworks Berkeley
The award-winning bathhouse hosts special events, DJed nights, and a cruisy vibe. $5-$200 (6-month membership). 18+ only. Open 24/7 every day. 2107 4th St., Berkeley. https://www.steamworksbaths.com/berkeleyhome
Suavecito @ Space 550
Valentino Presents and Club Papi present a weekly Latin dance night with DJs Mike, Mr. Biggs, and Lola; Sonora Tropicana band, drag acts, gogo guys, three dance rooms, outdoor lounge. Saturdays, $15-$25. 9:30pm-3am. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.suavecitosf.com
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The (mostly) Country music line-dancing, two-stepping nights (Sundays and Thursdays) has returned. $5, 5pm-10:30pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org
Toad Hall
Spacious Castro bar with a small dance floor and back patio. 4146 18th St.
Trax
Historic Haight gay bar (since 1940!) serves up cheap and strong drinks. 1437 Haight St. http://traxbarsf.com/
Twin Peaks
Enjoy a great view and strong drinks at the historic tavern, now in its 50th year. 401 Castro St. https://www.twinpeakstavern.com/
Underground SF
Reopened and renovated intimate Lower Haight nightclub hosts varied DJed events, including LGBTQ nights like Hella Tight; also a cafe by day. 424 Haight St. https://undergroundsf.com/
White Horse Bar
Enjoy outdoor dining and drinks at the famous Oakland bar; monthly music nights, 7:30pm. 6551 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. whitehorsebar.com
Wild Side West
Historic lesbian and friends bar in Bernal Heights with an airy backyard garden (stairs). 424 Cortland Ave. https://www.wildsidewest.com/
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