Developer Behind Castro Theatre Plan Sues Live Nation Over Alleged Interference

The real estate developer seeking to renovate the historic Castro Theatre has filed a lawsuit against Live Nation, accusing the entertainment giant of interfering with its existing agreement to manage events at the venue.

Another Planet Entertainment, the Berkeley-based promoter chosen by building owner Nasser Wahbeh to revamp the theater in 2022, claims Live Nation attempted to sideline its exclusive contract. The complaint, filed last week in San Francisco Superior Court, alleges that Live Nation approached the Castro Theatre Conservancy, a nonprofit opposing Another Planet’s plans, with a proposal to take over the theater’s operations.

The lawsuit outlines a presentation prepared by Live Nation in which it positions itself as a more community-friendly alternative operator. It further alleges that Live Nation sought to partner with or obtain a lease from Wahbeh, despite his ongoing agreement with Another Planet.

The Castro Theatre, a landmark in San Francisco’s LGBTQ and film communities for a century, has become a flashpoint for debate in the city. Another Planet’s proposed renovation would replace the theater’s orchestra-level seating with tiered platforms suited for live concerts and events. Supporters argue the updates are necessary to modernize the space and keep it financially viable. Critics say the changes put the theater’s cultural legacy at risk.

In its suit, Another Planet accuses Live Nation of making false and misleading claims to sway the community and city officials during the project’s public review. It also alleges that Live Nation tried to exploit public dissent by hiring a lobbying firm to undermine Another Planet’s exclusive tenancy.

The complaint names Live Nation, a former Another Planet employee, and the lobbying firm Lighthouse Public Affairs. It seeks damages for alleged breach of contract, unfair competition, and intentional interference.

Live Nation declined to comment on the specific allegations but offered a statement affirming its respect for the Castro Theatre and its supporters. The company did not confirm whether it has future plans for the venue.

The legal tensions add another layer to a drawn-out political and cultural battle over the fate of the theater. The Board of Supervisors voted in May 2023 to expand the landmark designation for the building’s interior, including the historic seating. That move complicates proposed changes and adds restrictions to the renovation plan.

Another Planet maintains that it retains the rights to manage and upgrade the space under its current agreement. The lawsuit argues that Live Nation’s alleged actions are part of a broader strategy to enter a lucrative San Francisco market by supplanting a local operator.

Wahbeh, who has owned the theater since the 1970s, has not publicly commented on the case. The Castro Theatre Conservancy also did not respond to requests for comment. The case is now pending in San Francisco court.