Finocchio's (San Francisco, California)
Finocchio’s Club was a legendary San Francisco nightclub known for its glamorous female impersonation performances. It began as a speakeasy in 1929 when Joe Finocchio, inspired by a performer imitating Sophie Tucker, envisioned a venue where men could perform with the elegance and showmanship of sophisticated women. The name "Finocchio" comes from the Italian word for fennel. Historically, it has also been used as a derogatory term for gay men. While the exact origins of this slang are unclear, it reflects how language has been used to label LGBTQIA+ people. Despite this, Finocchio’s nightclub reclaimed the name, becoming a famous venue for female impersonation performances in San Francisco.
After Prohibition ended in 1933, the club moved to 506 Broadway in the North Beach district, becoming a well-known entertainment hotspot. Marjorie Finocchio, Joe’s first wife, played a crucial role in shaping the club’s success. She managed the entertainment, booked top-tier performers, and promoted the venue locally and internationally. Under her leadership, Finocchio’s gained a reputation as a unique tourist attraction, drawing celebrities such as Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Tallulah Bankhead. Performers showcased diverse acts, including ethnic dance styles and elaborate impersonations of Hollywood stars.
Despite occasional police raids and military restrictions during World War II, the club remained a fixture in San Francisco’s nightlife. In the 1950s, psychologist Evelyn Hooker visited Finocchio’s before conducting groundbreaking research that challenged stereotypes about gay men. After Marjorie’s passing in 1956, Joe married Eve Finocchio, who continued to run the club until its closure on November 27, 1999, due to rising rents and declining attendance.
Finocchio’s Club was a symbol of LGBTQIA+ visibility in entertainment for over six decades. From its underground beginnings to its status as a celebrated institution, it provided a stage for performers to express themselves in an era when LGBTQIA+ representation was limited. The club’s legacy remains a significant part of San Francisco’s queer history.
Performers
This is an incomplete list of the many talented performers who entertained audiences at Finocchio’s over the years.
