Hero photo by Charles Lewis III on Flickr, CC BY-ND 2.0
Rising from the ashes of the 1906 earthquake, the Toni Rembe Theater (formerly the Geary Theater) is more than just a venue—it is a symbol of San Francisco's resilience. Located in the heart of Union Square, this architectural masterpiece serves as the flagship home for the American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.).
Whether you are a theater history buff, an architecture lover, or looking for the best shows in the Bay Area, this guide covers everything you need to know about this iconic landmark.
A History of Resilience and Rebirth
From the Columbia to the Toni Rembe
The story of the theater is one of constant evolution. Originally built in 1910 as the Columbia Theater, the building was designed by renowned architects Walter D. Bliss and William B. Faville featuring Classical Revival styles.
- 1924: The venue was renamed the Geary Theater, hosting everything from vaudeville acts to cinema.
- 1967: It became the official home of the American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.), cementing its place in dramatic history.
- 1989: The Loma Prieta earthquake caused severe damage, forcing a closure until its triumphant restoration and reopening in 1996.
- 2022: The theater was renamed the Toni Rembe Theater in honor of philanthropist Toni Rembe, whose generous $35 million gift ensured the venue’s future.
Today, the theater stands as a testament to the fact that while earthquakes can shake the ground, they cannot break the spirit of the arts in San Francisco.
Architectural Splendor
Historic Design
The theater is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The exterior features ornate cornices and pilasters that transport visitors back to the Edwardian era. Inside, the auditorium is famed for its intimacy. Despite seating over 1,000 patrons, the tiered balconies and the proscenium arch create a close connection between the actor and the audience.
Modern Enhancements & Seismic Safety
Following the 1989 earthquake, the theater underwent massive seismic retrofitting. These renovations fortified the structure without erasing its history. Modern updates include:
- Acoustics: Vaulted ceilings that naturally amplify sound, now supported by state-of-the-art audio technology.
- The Garret: A penthouse space used for cabaret performances and private events, offering a modern contrast to the historic main stage.
- Sustainability: Energy-efficient lighting and sustainable materials were integrated during recent renovations to reduce the theater’s ecological footprint.
World-Class Performances and Events
As the home of A.C.T., the Toni Rembe Theater hosts a diverse range of productions that draw critics and audiences from around the world.
Theatrical Productions
The programming blends the classic with the cutting-edge. Recent and historical highlights include:
- Seminal Dramas: From A Streetcar Named Desire to the epic The Lehman Trilogy.
- Holiday Traditions: The annual production of A Christmas Carol is a staple of San Francisco’s holiday season.
- Musicals: High-energy productions like Hippest Trip – The Soul Train Musical.
- Innovative New Works: Plays like Big Data that explore modern anxieties through a dramatic lens.
Beyond the Main Stage
The theater experience extends beyond the curtain call. InterACT events offer workshops and Q&A sessions, allowing the audience to engage directly with the creative process. Pre-show talks and post-show discussions help democratize theater, making complex themes accessible to everyone.
Visiting the Toni Rembe Theater: A Patron’s Guide
Planning a visit? Here is what you need to know about tickets, seating, and getting there.
How to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online via the official A.C.T. website or at the box office.
- Subscriptions: Season subscribers get the best seats and significant savings.
- Dynamic Pricing: Ticket prices may fluctuate based on demand, so booking early is recommended.
- Discounts: Look for student, senior, and group rates. A.C.T. also offers "Rush" tickets for last-minute deals.
Getting There and Parking
Located at 415 Geary Street, the theater is easily accessible.
- Public Transit: The theater is a short walk from the Powell Street BART and Muni station.
- Parking: While street parking is difficult in Union Square, there are several parking garages nearby. Valet service is often available for evening performances.
- Accessibility: The venue is fully ADA accessible, featuring ramps, elevators, and assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired.
Community Impact and Future Vision
The Toni Rembe Theater is a non-profit entity deeply embedded in the civic life of San Francisco. Through Studio A.C.T. and various educational initiatives, the theater trains the next generation of actors and provides arts education to local schools.
Looking forward, the theater continues to evolve. With a commitment to inclusivity and digital integration, the Toni Rembe Theater is not just preserving the past—it is actively defining the future of American theater.