Showgirl Magic Museum, museum in San Francisco, California
The Showgirl Magic Museum is a museum in San Francisco dedicated to the history of nightclubs in the Chinatown neighborhood, displaying costumes, headdresses, and memorabilia from the 1940s through 1970s. The exhibits are housed in an underground space within the Clarion Performing Arts Center, creating a distinctive setting for visitors.
The museum was founded by Cynthia Yee, a dancer, magician, and show organizer who also serves as president of the Clarion Performing Arts Center. It documents a period when the nightclub scene in San Francisco's Chinatown flourished from the 1940s through the 1970s.
The museum honors the nightclubs that once served as centers of entertainment and expression in San Francisco's Chinatown. Visitors can see how performers told their stories through costumes and accessories, and understand the role these shows played in the community.
Visits are by appointment only, so it is recommended to book in advance for your visit. Access is through the Clarion Performing Arts Center building, so visitors should look for the entrance there.
The museum also features a documentary film called "Empress Yee and the Magical History of Chinatown" that tells stories of the performers and the area's history during those years. This film provides additional insight into the experiences of the artists who shaped this lively part of San Francisco.
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