history
of the
eclectic
box

Eclectic Box is part of a proud “DIY” legacy when it comes to 446 Valencia Street. What was just an empty lot prior to 1931, became Mancuso's Brothers Furniture Store that Joseph and John Mancuso built themselves, that was taken over by Joseph's son, Dominic, when the brothers retired. For almost sixty years, they operated out of the space before handing it over to Intersection For the Arts who subsequently converted the unique building into a working theater.

Intersection For the Arts operated out of 446 Valencia Street from 1990 to 2011, creating a supportive environment for artists, performers, and all the other types that make their way to San Francisco to see if the weirdness of reputation can be matched in reality. Executive Director for Intersection, Deborah Cullinan, remembers Dominic Mancuso as a man who valued hard work and honesty. Even if he didn't understand what he was seeing on stage at Intersection, he appreciated the drive and passion it took to make it.

In 2012, Ty Mckenzie took over the space and ran Stage Werx for more than a decade. Stage Werx became a hub for experimental shows, comedians, original plays, and community. Mckenzie kept the space afloat through the pandemic, when live performances were halted and other venues shuttered, thanks to the generosity of Dominic's wife Fe Mancuso. Fe, the current owner, has been an advocate for the arts since the 90's and was determined to keep 446 Valencia Street an active black box theater. When Mckenzie was ready to retire in 2023, she handed the space over to what would become the board and collective of Eclectic Box — with Fe's blessing.

We are beyond proud to be carrying on the mantle of this space, one that started from entrepreneurs and ingenuity, and continued to create a legacy out of art, creativity, and ambition. 446 Valencia Street has gone by many names and we're honored to add ours to the roster!