The Wilsey Center

Originally built to house the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the 4th Floor of the Veterans Building has been reborn as the Wilsey Center for Opera. Several historical details, such as columns, alcoves, and intricate molding, have been preserved from the center’s time as a museum. 

Two performance spaces, the Atrium Theater and the Education Studio, are available for rent when the San Francisco Opera is not in residence. This mix of historical and contemporary details creates an environment appropriate for a wide variety of events.

The Atrium Theater is a flexible performance space. The room has a built-in Meyer Constellation Acoustic System that can adjust the acoustics of the venue digitally.

The Education Studio is an open, flexible space designed for meetings, performances, rehearsals, workshops, and receptions. It welcomes people with large glass doors and a skylight ceiling that bathes the space in natural light. The Education Studio makes a good reception space for stand-alone events or in conjunction with performances in the Atrium or Herbst theaters.

LOCATION & RENTAL CONTACT

Booking TEAM: Wilsey Center
Email: wmpac.booking@sfgov.org
PHONE: 415.621.6600

San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center
401 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 110
San Francisco, CA 94102
Main Phone: 415.621.6600

ATRIUM THEATRE
299 SEATS
0
sq.ft.
EDUCATION STUDIO
200 STANDING RECEPTION - CAPACITY CAN EXPAND WHEN USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ATRIUM THEATER
0
sq.ft.
ATRIUM THEATRE
299 SEATS
0
sq.ft.
EDUCATION STUDIO
<sp200 STANDING RECEPTION - CAPACITY CAN EXPAND WHEN USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ATRIUM THEATER
0
sq.ft.
Floor PLANS
Wilsey Center

ATRIUM THEATER CAPACITY

  SQ.FT.
0

299 SEATS

Floor PLANS

ATRIUM THEATER CAPACITY

sq. ft.
0

299 SEATS

Rental RATES

Rental rates include same day set up and rehearsal, but do not include labor, equipment, insurance, box office services, lobby event space or additional rehearsal or set up days. Merchandise sales, commercial displays and audio/video recording require separate agreements and fees.

Rental rates are subject to increase every year on July 1.

Please see Fees & Expenses for more information.

STANDARD

One performance and same day rehearsal

Atrium Theater
$1800
Education Studio: Dependent upon planned use
$550-$2200

501(c)(3) / GOVERNMENT

One performance and same day rehearsal

Atrium Theater
$900
Education Studio: Dependent upon planned use
$265-$1100
Weekly Rehearsal Use
$1100
Rental RATES

Rental rates include same day set up and rehearsal, but do not include labor, equipment, insurance, box office services, lobby event space or additional rehearsal or set up days. Merchandise sales, commercial displays and audio/video recording require separate agreements and fees.

Rental rates are subject to increase every year on July 1.

Please see Fees & Expenses for more information.

STANDARD

One performance and same day rehearsal

Atrium Theater
$1800
Education Studio: Dependent upon planned use
$550-$2200

501(c)(3) / GOVERNMENT

One performance and same day rehearsal

Atrium Theater
$900
Education Studio – Dependent upon planned use
$265-$1100
Weekly Rehearsal Use
$1100-$3600

Fees &
EXPENSES

RENT

See Rental Rates for more information. All personnel and equipment rental expenses are in addition to rent.

BOX OFFICE

There is no exclusive box office for the Wilsey Center spaces. Licensees are welcome to ticket events themselves or to engage any professional or online box office service provider.

LABOR

Costs for labor in addition to rental fees depend heavily on each event’s particular schedule and technical requirements. Labor will be a combination of union stage labor, front of house staff, and event management staff.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment rentals are dependent on the needs of each performance or event. Estimates will be developed at the time of booking. See Equipment for an inventory.

INSURANCE

A Certificate of Insurance with an Additional Insured Endorsement is required for all performances and events. Insurance must include Workers Compensation coverage, Public Liability coverage of $1 million and Property Damage coverage of $1 million. A 1-day liability policy is available through the War Memorial. Rates are available on request. Licensee must provide all other coverage.

MERCHANDISE SALES

Merchandise sales must be approved in advance. The War Memorial retains 10% of net sales plus applicable sales tax. The War Memorial does not provide sellers, banks, or WiFi.

AUDIO & VIDEO RECORDING

Only archival video recording with one camera or single track archival audio are permitted without a separate agreement. Added labor expenses will apply for any other recording projects.

COMMERCIAL DISPLAYS

Third-party commercial displays in the venue (such as corporate sponsor banners or giveaways) must be approved in advance and are subject to a commercial display fee.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

There is no exclusive caterer or concessionaire for the Atrium Theater or Education Studio. Licensees may use the licensed and insured caterer or bar service of their choice, working in accordance with all California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.

Fees &
EXPENSES

RENT

See Rental Rates for more information. All personnel and equipment rental expenses are in addition to rent.

BOX OFFICE

There is no exclusive box office for the Wilsey Center spaces. Licensees are welcome to ticket events themselves or to engage any professional or online box office service provider.

LABOR

Costs for labor in addition to rental fees depend heavily on each event’s particular schedule and technical requirements. Labor will be a combination of union stage labor, front of house staff, and event management staff.

INSURANCE

A Certificate of Insurance with an Additional Insured Endorsement is required for all performances and events. Insurance must include Workers Compensation coverage, Public Liability coverage of $1 million and Property Damage coverage of $1 million. A 1-day liability policy is available through the War Memorial. Rates are available on request. Licensee must provide all other coverage.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment rentals are dependent on the needs of each performance or event. Estimates will be developed at the time of booking. See Equipment for an inventory.

MERCHANDISE SALES

Merchandise sales must be approved in advance. The War Memorial retains 10% of net sales plus applicable sales tax. The War Memorial does not provide sellers, banks, or WiFi.

AUDIO & VIDEO RECORDING

Only archival video recording with one camera or single track archival audio are permitted without a separate agreement. Added labor expenses will apply for any other recording projects.

COMMERCIAL DISPLAYS

Third-party commercial displays in the venue (such as corporate sponsor banners or giveaways) must be approved in advance and are subject to a commercial display fee.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

There is no exclusive caterer or concessionaire for the Atrium Theater or Education Studio. Licensees may use the licensed and insured caterer or bar service of their choice, working in accordance with all California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.

Technical SPECIFICATIONS

ATRIUM THEATER

  • Overall footprint: 65’ x 65’
  • Stage Area: 65’ wide x 25’ deep
  • Basic theatrical lighting pre-hung
  • Wired headset communication between all operating positions
  • Meyer Constellation sound system

ATRIUM THEATER AUXILIARY SPACES

  • 3 dressing rooms with 4 makeup stations each
  • Atrium Lobby
  • Built in Box Office station

LOADING INFORMATION

Loading Zone located in front on Van Ness Avenue. Freight elevator to access 4th floor is 12′ long. All outside equipment must be able to fit through double doors. 

EDUCATION STUDIO

  • Overall footprint: 84’6” x 33’6”
  • Small catering kitchen availabele upon request 

AUDIO AND VIDEO RECORDING

Only archival recordings with a single stationary camera with single-track archival audio are permitted without a separate agreement. Added labor expenses will apply for any other recording projects.

STAGE LABOR

Stage crew at The Wilsey Center are members of IATSE Local 16. Our union crew is required for the installation and operation of all theatrical, audio, and visual equipment. This includes audio and video recording.

Equipment

Equipment prices listed are per item and is rented on a per day basis. Weekly rental rates are the equivalent of three days. The Wilsey Center Stage Electrician can arrange for rental of other necessary equipment through outside vendors.

ATRIUM THEATER EQUIPMENT

  • Meyer Constellation sound system: No charge
  • Basic Theatrical lighting: No charge
  • Panasonic RZ-970 Laser model projector: $368
  • Archival Video Recording: $26
  • Clear Com system (wired): No charge

SHARED EQUIPMENT

These items can be rented for either the Atrium Theater or Education Studio upon request. 

TABLES & CHAIRS

  • Ten (10) 8′ Tables (30″ deep)
  • Six (6) 6′ Tables (30″ deep)
  • Four (4) Round High Boys (30″ diameter, 42″ high)
  • Six (6) Round Low Boys (30″ diameter, 29″ high)
  • Eight (8) Directional Sign Holders (11X17 landscape)
  • Seven (7) Stanchions
  • 200 Padded, Theater Armchairs


THEATRICAL

  • Wireless Microphones (6): $26 each
  • Wired Dynamic Microphones: $5 each
  • Yamaha Rio QL1 Sound Mixer: No charge
  • Stage Platforms


MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS & ACCESSORIES

  • Yahama baby grand piano with tuning: Varies
  • Yamaha C5 baby grand piano with tuning: May be available for rental upon request
  • Music Stands (12): No charge

EDUCATION STUDIO

  • House Ceiling Speaker System: No charge
  • Wireless microphones (4): No charge
  • HDMI video projector: No charge
  • Drop down projection screen: No charge

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT PENDING AVAILABILITY FROM OUR OTHER VENUES

Additional equipment may be available for rental upon request. Please check with the Wilsey Tech Coordinator for availability:

Timothy Tunks: Wilsey Tech Coordinator
timothy.tunks@sfgov.org
415.554.6343

Booking INFORMATION

Please note: A minimum of 6 weeks is required to plan, contract, staff, and execute your event in the Atrium Theater or Education Studio. Shorter booking timeframes may not be possible.

1. INITIAL INQUIRY

Contact us to check availability of your desired date(s). Availability is limited, so be prepared with alternate dates and a clear sense of your event and its timeline. If your desired date(s) appear open and your performance or event is compatible with the venue, you may place a hold while we confirm availability.

2. APPLICATION

Once your date is confirmed, submit a completed application together with the rental deposit.

3. FINALIZE DETAILS

Prior to issuing your Short Term License Agreement: Confirm the timeline, technical elements and needed equipment with our Stage Electrician. Additionally, confirm desired audience services, food and beverage requirements, and any additional needs.

4. LICENSE AGREEMENT

We will issue a Short Term License Agreement (STLA). Next steps:

  • Sign and return the STLA and related documents.
  • Pay the balance of the Rent.
  • For ticketed events, execute a separate agreement with City Box Office or an approved box office.

5. PAY PERFORMANCE DEPOSIT & INSURANCE

No less than three weeks prior to your event, furnish proof of insurance and pay your Performance Deposit, which is a deposit paid to cover the total estimated cost of labor and equipment. See Fees & Expenses for more information.

No less than three weeks prior to your event, furnish proof of insurance and pay your Performance Deposit, which is a deposit paid to cover the total estimated cost of labor and equipment. See Fees & Expenses for more information.

6. SETTLEMENT

A settlement of rental fees and labor and equipment expenses will be completed following your performance or event. This process will take up to three weeks.

7. CHALLENGE PROCEDURE

If another party has a hold on your desired date, you may challenge their hold by submitting a completed application and a check for the full rental fee. The challenged party will then have two working days to pay the rental fee or release the challenged date. Only one held date can be challenged at a time. If your challenge is successful, the rental deposit is not refundable or transferable.

Rules & REGULATIONS

BUILDING ACCESS

War Memorial staff must be present at all times Licensee and their staff, performers, volunteers and audience are in the Atrium Theater or Education Studio, including lobby, stage area, and dressing rooms, and catering prep kitchen.

The San Francisco Opera has offices on the fourth floor. Do not leave any items in the hallways, and please refrain from rehearsing or talking loudly in the hallways.

LOBBY ACCESS

Lobby set-ups require front-of-house and/or event management staff to be present and may begin no earlier than 90 minutes prior to performance or event start time unless prior arrangements have been made.

  • Lobby set-ups requiring more than two tables must be arranged in advance and may require additional rental fees.
  • IATSE stagehands must handle all set-ups that include lighting, audio/visual and décor.

DELIVERIES

Delivery and pick up of all items must be approved and scheduled in advance. Rental equipment and all other materials must be removed by Licensee immediately following their performance or event, unless otherwise prearranged.

ACCESS

Hours specified in the Short Term License Agreement are the only hours Licensee or their vendors may access the designated areas of the Wilsey Center.

  • Stage crew begins work at the start of access hours. No work may be done prior to the start of your access hours, including set-up or rehearsal.
  • IATSE stagehands must perform all work on stage. No “casual help” is permitted.

ITEMS NOT PERMITTED ON PREMISES

Bottled gas in any form, confetti or glitter, open flame or water features.

PROGRAM AND DISPLAY MATERIALS

All material to be posted or programs must be approved in advance. Licensee will not post, or allow to be posted, any signs, cards or posters that have not been approved.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

While a printed program is not required, any printed program must include the emergency exit diagram and a list of the War Memorial Board of Trustees provided in Appendix D of your Short Term License Agreement.

PROTECTION AND CARE

Protection and care are required on floors and walls. Carts and dollies with rubber wheels should be used to prevent scratching floors. Avoid dragging or rolling metal items, or items with metal edges, bases or glides.

The floors of the Wilsey Center are unsealed wood. Should leaking or spills occur, they must be cleaned immediately.

There is no use of staples, tacks, or nails to affix material(s) to venue equipment, walls, or floors.

SPACE USE

The Veterans Building is a public space with multiple venues and offices. All space to be used must be approved in advance, and all building users are asked to respect each other’s presence and needs.

Food &BEVERAGE

The Education Studio makes a good reception space for stand-alone events or in conjunction with Atrium Theater performances.

The Atrium Theater is not intended for party or catered event uses.

PERFORMANCE CONCESSIONS
Sale of food or beverages is permitted only with prior War Memorial approval and requires appropriate licenses.

The Wilsey Center seats have cup holders. Drinks are permitted during performances provided cups fit into these holders.

CATERING
Only licensed and insured caterers may provide food and beverage services. Caterers must have a manager on site at all times. Use of a small catering prep kitchen can be arranged, free of charge.

Food and beverage service areas must be matted. Ice must be delivered and moved in plastic tubs. Only ice and liquids may be disposed of in sinks (no coffee grounds or foodstuffs). Do not dispose of ice in restroom sinks or toilets.

Frequently
ASKED QUESTIONS

No. The War Memorial is the department of the City and County of San Francisco responsible for managing the rental and maintenance of the Performing Arts Center facilities. Production and promotion of all events and performances is the responsibility of Licensees.

Yes. There is no exclusive box office for Wilsey Center spaces. Licensees are welcome to ticket events themselves or to engage an approved professional or online box office service provider. All seating should be General Admission as the seats are not numbered.

Yes. The Atrium lobby may be used for receptions. The Education Studio is an ideal venue for receptions held in conjunction with Atrium Theater performances or conferences. Its rental is subject to availability.

Yes. You may use the licensed and insured caterer or bar service provider of your choice, working in accordance with all California Alcoholic Beverage Control regulations.

Cost depends on technical needs, as well as the timeline of load in, presentation and load out. While all performances and events are unique, costs in the Atrium Theater typically range from $2,000- $10,000 each. Costs in the Education Studio typically range from $1,900 – $3,500 each.

A Performance Deposit is a deposit paid in advance to cover your estimated labor and equipment expenses. Any unused portion is refunded at the time of settlement.

There are no parking spaces available. There is a freight elevator that can be accessed from the Van Ness Avenue entrance. See Directions & Parking for parking information. See Technical Specifications for loading information.

Yes. There are two passenger elevators that go up to the Atrium Theater and Education Studio, which are on the fourth floor of the Veterans Building. Entrance into the Veterans Building is accessible from the Van Ness Avenue entrance and the Courtyard entrance near Franklin and Fulton streets.

Access hours will be determined at the time of booking.

The Atrium Theater has limited storage.  Delivery of programs must be coordinated with the Booking Manager in advance.  We cannot facilitate return shipping of any items.

Yes. Merchandise sales must be approved in advance. The War Memorial retains 10% of gross sales plus applicable sales tax. The War Memorial does not provide sellers, banks, or WiFi.

Arrangements for recording must be made in advance and may require a separate agreement. Recording(s) require additional equipment rentals and union labor.

Yes. The Atrium Theater has three stage-level dressing rooms. The Education Studio has no dressing rooms.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada (IA or IATSE) is a labor union for entertainment and related industries. The War Memorial requires the use of IATSE Local 16 stagehands to perform all theatrical work in our venues.

No. The War Memorial is responsible for coordinating all building security, with any additional security outside of the standard charged to the Licensee. Specific performance or event security needs should be presented at the time of booking.

Yes. War Memorial staff is pleased to conduct site visits, available by appointment only and dependent upon the schedule of the Wilsey Center.

The City of San Francisco’s open public network is the only available WiFi service. The War Memorial does not have control over this network, and it can be slow or unreliable at times.

San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center

401 Van Ness Avenue, Room 110 | San Francisco CA 94102
P: 415.621.6600 F: 415.621.5091