Meet the 77-year-old keeping experimental theater alive in the Tenderloin

Christina Augello, 77, has been a vital force in San Francisco's independent theater scene, notably through her company, The Exit. After the pandemic forced her to downsize from five stages to one, Augello continues to host the San Francisco Fringe Festival, which will run from August 8 to 25 with 45 performances scheduled. Despite facing financial difficulties and a decline in audience numbers, she remains dedicated to showcasing experimental and avant-garde performances. Augello has historically supported small performers, believing that her platform is essential for fostering creativity in the arts. The theater gained recent notoriety with the premiere of “Luigi: The Musical,” which sold out rapidly, although it drew criticism from local critics and backlash against Augello herself.

She acknowledges the unpredictability of the festival, stating that while some shows may not resonate, many exceed expectations. Augello has emphasized the importance of community support, remarking, “We were based on the model that it takes a village. ” The ongoing struggle of independent theaters like The Exit highlights the broader challenges facing the arts in urban areas post-pandemic.