Capacity 700
This multiplex, built on the tip of the Japan Center and initially intended to play a mix of mainstream and independent/foreign films, has in recent years served as the main venue of the San Francisco International Film Festival. The largest of the theaters was originally designed for live shows; the rest of the cinemas were built around it to become the movie house complex.
I should add, for those not familiar with the area, that the Kabuki is a block from both the Fillmore and the site of Winterland. The Kabuki is at Post and Fillmore, while the Fillmore is at Fillmore and Geary (Geary is a block from Post), while Winterland was at Post and Steiner (Steiner is a block from Fillmore). (1)
The main auditorium seats over 700 people on two levels. The theatre has a stage, japanese art deco with hanging red lanterns, and a great balcony. The bottom seats over 400 and the balcony seats over 300.
The Kabuki was also an excellent concert venue.
It was great because the stage was set so low.
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| This poster was designed by Alton Kelley and was used for an April 1984 show at the Kabuki Theater. |
Jerry performed here
8/23/82 early and late shows JGJK
6/3/84 JGJK
1.)^Arnold, Corry
Robert Hunter opened for the June 3 '84 Garcia and Kahn show.
ReplyDeleteI should add, for those not familiar with the area, that the Kabuki is a block from both the Fillmore and the site of Winterland (RIP). The Kabuki is at Post and Fillmore, while the Fillmore is at Fillmore and Geary (Geary is a block from Post), while Winterland was at Post and Steiner (Steiner is a block from Fillmore).
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ReplyDeleteWhen Garcia played it in '82, it was being referred to as the Kabuki Nightclub (or Kabuki Night Club). I had the capacity as 1,400 rather than 700, but not sure where I got that.
ReplyDeleteOh, and if you keep the current name, it should definitely be "Theatre" rather than "Theater".
ReplyDeleteI see that Selvin's Musical History Tour says it held 1,400 when it was built in 1960. To confuse matters, the brief review of the 6/3/84 show in Golden Road says the place held 1,100. ("Deadline," Golden Road no. 03 [Summer 1984], p. 6.)
ReplyDeletePretty sure the 1100 number is correct, or closest to it of those suggested. I worked shows at the Kabuki from 1983 until it was closed to make room for the movie multiplex in '85. The 700 number is way too low, as the Kabuki was the next step up in size from its sister club Wolfgang's, which could hold 700 or more depending on floor configuration.
Deletei seem to remember seeing The Cure there in the early 80s
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