Coming Soon to a Theater Near You

Alamo Drafthouse to Breathe Life in Historic New Mission Theater. Ever notice how many empty, historic theaters there are up and down Market Street and in the Mission? Soon there will be one less. That is, the currently defunct New Mission Theater and its historic façade will stay right where they are but will be reborn as the next location of the Alamo Drafthouse. Popular in other cities for offering moviegoers the option of purchasing alcohol as well as casual-dining selections, instead of the usual popcorn-and-soda fare, Alamo has a history of reinvigorating old theaters. According to its founder, Tim League, Alamo is working closely with the city to ensure that historic architectural and decorative details are preserved, while maximizing the utility of the theater. In exchange, the city will grant a healthy property tax break, something that helped make the purchase of the theater attractive in the first place. When renovations are complete, the balcony will have been subdivided into smaller theaters to allow for more screens. The big screen will be updated with new, state-of-the-art projection and sound. Completion is scheduled for late next year.

Sources: (content) Peter Hernandez, Fog City Journal & Tim League, Alamo Drafthouse; (photo) Andy Sweet & Fog City Journal; (video) Zephyr Real Estate & YouTube