Christina Augello, founder of The Exit theater, has embraced various roles in theater, showcasing her passion through the San Francisco Fringe Festival. Currently, she manages one stage, featuring 15 original shows from August 8 to 25, while championing small performers. Though she has struggled financially with the theater's operations, particularly after the pandemic, Augello remains dedicated to independent theater, which she supports while bartending at a bar. Her performances have included experimental and unique productions, embracing creativity and diversity.
"It's the only tool I have to make things better," she said. "I don't know what else I would do."
For decades, Augello rented her five stages - four on Eddy Street and one on Taylor Street - for a flat fee, welcoming any performer who had a show to put on.
After re-opening post-pandemic, The Exit's four theaters on Eddy Street made a fraction of what it cost to keep the doors open.
With purple-streaked hair and a "Theater is Sexy" pin on her purse, 77-year-old Augello has been acting and directing since before she hitchhiked across the country in her 20s.
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