Local arts and nightlife events are in full spring swing this week, as shown by our expanding listings in Going Out.
ARTS
(Click here for listings of LGBTQ movies, TV series, podcasts and community organizations.)
DANCE, OPERA, THEATER
Alonzo King LINES Ballet @ YBCA
The acclaimed local choreographer's contemporary ballet company perform a new work, with Grammy-winning vocalist Lisa Fischer and photographer Richard Misrach. $40-$115. April 15-23. Blue Shield of California Theater at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. https://linesballet.org/l
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater @ Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley
The acclaimed dance company performs Ailey classics, West Coast premieres of dances by Twyla Tharp and Paul Taylor, and recent works by Kyle Abraham and Jamar Roberts. $42-$150; thru April 16. Bancroft Way at Dana St., Berkeley. calperformances.org
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/
Bay Area Dance Week
Dancers Group's ten-day celebration of dance, with dozens of companies performing, leading classes and workshops at venues around the Bay Area. April 21-30. https://dancersgroup.org/badw/
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/
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
Come From Away @ Golden Gate Theatre
The touring company of Irene Sankoff and David Hein's Tony-nominated hit musical about stranded passengers who land in a small town in Newfoundland returns. $55-$137; thru April 23. 1 Taylor St. https://www.broadwaysf.com
Cyrano @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley
Edmond Rostan's classic play about a large-nosed romantic go-between is adapted and directed by Josh Costello; thru May 7 (also streaming May 2-7). 2081 Addison St. https://www.auroratheatre.org/cyrano
Dance Mission Theater
Dance and performance space; also classes in many forms. April 15-23: D.I.R.T. Festival — Dance In Revolt(ing)Times' 'Citizen Supreme,' with three programs of works by 16 artists. 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. $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; thru April 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; thru May 7. 2025 Addison St. https://www.berkeleyrep.org
Exhaustion Arroyo: Dancin' Trees in the Ravine @ Cutting Ball Theater
W. Fran Astorga and Jesse Sanchez' psychedelic queer bilingual musical about friends on a druggy camping trip in the Santa Cruz mountains. $15-$100; thru May 21. 277 Taylor St. https://cuttingball.com
Home @ Z Below
Word for Word theater company opens its 30th season with a stage adaptation of George Saunders' story about a war veteran returning home to absurd complications. $5-$25; thru April 29, 470 Florida St. https://www.zspace.org/wfw-home
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; thru May 14. $25-$65. 25 Van Ness Ave. www.nctcsf.org (Read our feature article.)
Lockdown Comedy
Lisa Geduldig's monthly online gigglefest presents Wendy Liebman, Joseph Nguyen, Sergio Novoa, Lisa and her mom, Arline. $15-$25. April 20, 7pm. CityBoxOffice.com/LockdownComedy
Mondragola @ Berkeley City Club
Gary Graves' comedy about Machiavelli. $35-$40; thru April 23. 2315 Durant Ave. https://centralworks.org/
ODC Dance Jam @ ODC Dance Commons
'Through the Repetition,' a concert of new student works. $15. April 15, 8pm, 16 at 4pm & 4pm. 351 Shotwell St. https://odc.dance/jam
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; thru May 7. 1127 Market St. https://www.act-sf.org/
The Rita Hayworth of This Generation @ Theatre Rhino
Tina D'elia performs her new solo play about Carmelita Cristina Rivera, a queer Latina whose love of Rita Hayworth and desire for movie stardom leads her to Las Vegas. $15-$25; thru April 23. 4229 18th St. https://www.therhino.org (Read our review.)
San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Performing Arts Center
The company performs Helgi Tomasson's 'Romeo & Juliet,' set to Sergei Prokofiev's score. $29-$455. April 21-30. 301 Van Ness Ave. https://www.sfballet.org
San Francisco International Film Festival
66th annual festival of many features, documentaries and short films; thru April 23 at several Bay Area cinemas. www.sffilm.org (Read our advance feature.)
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; 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 thru April 30. Fred Pitts' 'Aren't You...?' 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley ($10-$35). www.themarsh.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; thru April 29. https://counterpulse.org/event/tlartsfest/
Who's Your Mami Comedy @ Brava's Cabaret
Laugh it up on 4/20 (no toking indoors) with Marga Gomez, Sampson McCormick, Shanti Charan and Natasha Muse. $15. April 20, 7:30pm. 2773 24th St. https://www.brava.org
LITERARY/LECTURES/SPECIAL EVENTS
Charlie Jane Anders @ Green Apple Books
The award-winning scifi author reads from and discusses 'Promises Stronger Than Darkness,' with Isaac Fellman. April 14, 7pm. 1231 9th Ave. www.eventbrite.com
Events @ The Green Arcade
Bookstore presents author readings often with California and social justice themes. 1680 Market St. https://thegreenarcade.com/
Grace Notes @ Grace Cathedral
Litquake celebrates National Poetry Month with readings by James Cagney, Henri Cole, Jewelle Gomez, Jacques Rancourt, and Rachel Zucker. April 21, 7:30pm. free. 1100 California St. www.eventbrite.com
LGBT Events @ Fabulosa Books
Author readings, in-store and online monthly (4th Saturdays) book club group discussion of literary works, 8:30pm-10pm. April 13, 7pm: Orlando Ortega-Medina ('The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants') in conversation with Baruch Porras-Hernandez. April 20, 7pm: Mumblers Press authors Susie Hara, Chris Lombardi and Mike Karpa. April 21, 7pm: Robbie Couch with Adam Silvera ('If I See You Again Tomorrow'). April 25, 7pm: music, poetry and prose with Yeva Johnson, Edward Gunawa, antmen pimentel mendoza, D'mani Thomas, and Lourdes Figuroa. 489 Castro St. https://www.fabulosabooks.com/
Literary Speakeasy @ Martuni's
James J. Siegel hosts the monthly authors and alcohol night at the intimate martini bar, with a nod to National Poetry Month via poets Heather Bourbeau, Lourdes Figueroa, Benjamin Gucciardi, Sarah Heady, and Carla Sarett. April 27, 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
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 at The Hormel Center; April 18, 6pm: Zinething, the queer zine-making meetup hosted by SF Zinefest. April 19, 6pm at the African American Center: readings from Audre Lorde's 'TheBlack Unicorn' with Yeva Johnson and Dr. Crystal Edwards. April 23, 2pm online: author Chen Chen in conversation with Sam Hershel Wein. '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/
Cal Performances @ UC Berkeley
Music and dance concerts and more. Zellerbach Hall, Bancroft Way at Dana St., Berkeley. calperformances.org
Considering Matthew Shepard
@ Hammer Theatre Center, San Jose
The Choral Project and San Jose State University Choraliers perform Craig Hella Johnson's vocal/poetry homage to the gay murder victim. $10-$40. April 14 & 15, 7:30pm. 101 Paseo De San Antonio. https://www.choralproject.org
Darren Hayes @ Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
The hunky gay Australian pop/rock singer stops by on his world tour. $20-$100. April 17, 8pm. 3601 Lyon St. https://www.darrenhayes.com/
Feinstein's at the Nikko
The upscale nightclub presents cabaret concerts. Faith Prince and Jason Graae perform April 14 & 15, 8pm ($65). Eleri Ward performs April 20, 8pm. $65. Grammy winner Alexandra Silber April 21 & 22, 8pm. $59. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. https://www.feinsteinssf.com/
Freight & Salvage
Music venue presents folk, rock, blues musicians and more. 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/
Julie Benko & Jason Yeager @ The Venetian Room
The Broadway star ('Funny Girl') and the jazz pianist/composer perform songs from their new album, 'Hand in Hand.' $30-$70. April 16, 5pm. 950 Mason St. https://bayareacabaret.org/ (Read our interview with Benko.)
Kim Nalley Band @ Keys Jazz Bistro
The talented vocalist and her band perform a tribute to the late composer Burt Bacharach. $25. April 12-15, 7pm & 9pm. 498 Broadway. https://www.kimnalley.com/ https://keysjazzbistro.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. April 18; pianist José López. 660 California St. www.noontimeconcerts.org
Oakland Gay Men's Chorus
The chorus performs 'True Colors,' with works by Black composers; Dr. Ben Riggs conducts, with guests New Voices Bay Area TIGQ Chorus. $15-60. April 15, 7:30pm, Montclair Presbyterian Church, 5701 Thornhill Drive, Oakland. April 16, 4:30pm, First Presbyterian Church of Oakland, 2619 Broadway, Oakland. www.oaklandgmc.org (Read our interview.)
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 14, 7:30pm: Emerson String Quartet. $50-$75. 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/
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. April 20, 5pm-10pm; opening reception for The Bay Area 5 group exhibit. 111 Minna St. 111minnagallery.com
Acion Latina
Community organization sponsors events, and hosts exhibits in its gallery. 2958 24th St. https://accionlatina.org/en/
African American Art & Culture Complex
Exhibits include 'Entrapment to Entertainments: a Celebration of Blacks in the American Circus,' curated by Uncle Junior Project founder Veronica Blair; thru June 30; 'Kemba Village' thru June 30, and 'Closer: 6 Feet Apart.' 762 Fulton St. https://aaacc.org/
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 Market @ Fort Mason Center
11th annual large-scale exhibition of visual art by dozens of artists, plus unique site-specific installations. April 20-23, 2 Marina Blvd. https://artmarketsf.com/
Art Visit
Meet with visual artists in your area at their studios. https://artvisit.org
Art With Elders: 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/
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, thru July 10. Also, '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, 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
'Thor and Loki: Midgard Family Mayhem,' an exhibition of original artwork from the forthcoming book by Jeffrey Brown, thru Aug. 27. '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, thru 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
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. 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
April 21, 6:30pm-9pm: opening reception for 'Doris Fish: Ego as Artforms,' curated by Bob Davis. $10. '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; new: 'Our Mothers Ourselves: Legacies That Shape Us,' a group exhibit of motherly imagery. April 15 (opening reception, 2pm—5pm) thru June 3; 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, '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
Louise Lawrence Transgender Archive
Renovated and re-opened archives, sponsored by the GLBT Historical Society; open to students, scholars, and the public by appointment only. 3021 Irwin St. Vallejo. https://lltransarchive.org/
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
April 15, 3pm-5pm: screening of 'The Girl from 7th Avenue,' Pat Cleveland in conversation with Kevan Hall ($15-$25). '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; thru Aug. 20. Ramekin O'Arwisters' 'Freeform and Razor-Sharp,' thru June 11. 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, like Anne Hicks Siberell's 'Fight and Flight: Crafting a Bay Area Life Concrete Journals,' thru Sept. 10. 2589 3rd St. www.sfmcd.org
NIAD Art Center, Richmond
The art studio for developmentally disabled adults shares in-person and online exhibits and sells beautiful works of art; window displays and weekly online exhibitions. 551 23rd St., Richmond. https://niadart.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/
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's 'The New Eagle Creek Saloon,' a recreation of the historic Black-owned gay bar;' '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. April 19, 6pm-1am; Art Bash, with seven floors of art, music, drinks, food and fun; $95, $250 and up. Reg. admission free/$25; reserved, timed ticketing. Mon 10am-5pm. Thu 1pm-8pm. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. First Thursdays free. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org
SF Public Library
Book displays at the James C. Hormel LGBTQIA Center, 3rd floor. Also, book exhibits on the 6th floor. April 25, 6pm in Koret Auditorium; screening of 'Jimmy in Saigon,' a personal documentary about a gay soldier in the Vietnam war. 100 Larkin St. https://sfpl.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. 323 10th St. https://www.tttelematiccc.com
Tenderloin Museum
New and permanent exhibits of neighborhood history. '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
In-person and 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. 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/
Art Bash @ SFMOMA
Enjoy seven floors of art, music, drinks, food and fun; $95, $250 and up (VIP dinner and/or 10pm-1am party); art experiences include DJed and live music, Sadie Barnette's 'The New Eagle Creek Saloon,' a recreation of the historic Black-owned gay bar, and much more. April 19, 6pm-1am. 151 Third St. www.sfmoma.org
Asia SF
Dining, nightlife and classy drag performers mix at the popular SoMa club that's celebrating 25 years; 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.
Bal Masque XX @ The Cafe
Krewe de Kinque hosts a Mardi Gras party and fundraiser for Rainbow World Fund's Ukraine emergency fund. April 15, 6pm-9pm. $10 and up ($50-$100 VIP). 2369 Market St. www.rainbowfund.networkforgood.com
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/
Bong-o Bingo @ Mission Cannabis Club
Get a double-hit of pot-friendly parties, hosted by DJ Dank, Thee Pristine Condition and Brandelicious. April 15, 6pm-9pm at Mission Cannabis Club, 2441 Mission St. https://www.facebook.com/events/891222792141070
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/
Crescendo @ Four Seasons Hotel
San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus' annual gala benefit includes festive cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by a multi-course gourmet seated dinner with live music, awards, a live auction, and a champagne and dessert reception. $450 and up. April 22, 5pm-11pm. 757 Market St. https://www.sfgmc.org/crescendo
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 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/
Fixation @ The Big Easy, Petaluma
Trixxie Carr hosts a night of glam drag with Raya Light and Queera Nightly, with Goth & New Wave DJed grooves. $15. April 22, 8pm. 128 American Alley. https://bigeasypetaluma.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, and a costume contest. Queer Karaoke Thursdays; UHaul SF on 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/
LaTrice Royale @ Bimbo's 365 Club
The drag star performs her 'Prison to Pristine' show, with live vocals, storytelling and tea-spilling fun. $35 and up. April 13, 8pm. https://bimbos365club.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 (https://www.jeffreybraverman.com/https://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. Katya Presents, a music series hosted by Katya Smirnoff-Skyy (next; April 16, 7pm with Paige Turner and pianist Joe Wicht). On last Sundays, 7pm, singer Carly Ozard hosts a monthly concert series (Read our interview), 5:30pm-8:30pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market.
Mascara @ Eureka Valley Rec. Center
The Castro Country Club's sober drag show and party takes on mythological theme, with performances, soft drinks and fun. $20. April 15, 7pm. 100 Collingwood St. https://www.castrocountryclub.org/
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/ (Read our feature article.)
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: April 13-29, 7pm: Baloney, the all-male revue, 'Comes Together.' April 16 & 23, 7pm: Ryan Patrick Welsh's "Sex, Camp, Rock 'n' Roll," ($25-$35). April 17 &18, 8pm: Save Her! an Earth Day Drag Show. 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 (April 15 with Loosey Laduca). 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 (next April 16, 2pm-8pm, $15-$20), 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/
Soirée @ City View @ Metreon
The SF LGBT Center's annual gala benefit, with hosts Sister Roma and Honey Mahogany, food, drinks, live and DJed music, auctions, and a scenic veranda. April 15. $95 and up (VIP dinner 5:30pm; after-party 8:30pm). 135 4th St. https://www.sfcenter.org/event/soiree-2023/
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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