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How I See SF
Choreographer Sean Dorsey

Sean Dorsey, an award-winning and trailblazing San Francisco-based creator shares his favorite things about the City by the Bay.

See San Francisco through the eyes of Sean Dorsey, an award-winning San Francisco-based choreographer, dancer and writer who is recognized as the U.S.’ first acclaimed transgender modern dance choreographer. Dorsey is also the founder and Artistic Director of Fresh Meat Productions, the nation’s first organization to create, present and tour year-round multidisciplinary transgender arts programs. Don't miss their current season performances.

Describe Your Perfect Day in San Francisco

My perfect day would start with the (rare) opportunity to grab a delicious breakfast or Vietnamese sandwich at Castro Tarts with my partner, transwoman singer-songwriter Shawna Virago. Then I would bring a picnic out to Fort Funston and watch for whales and dolphins (we’ve seen both there)! Dinner would have to be at our favorite friendly French restaurant Café Bastille (in magical little restaurant back street Belden Place). Finally, we would drive up to Twin Peaks and enjoy the nighttime lights from Twin Peaks.

What should every visitor to San Francisco do at least once?

Walk to the top of Bernal Hill and enjoy the views; take in some LGBT arts and culture (like the San Francisco Transgender Film Festival, the Queer Cultural Center, Peacock Rebellion, StormMiguel Florez, SF’s Trans March, and Star Amerasu).

What’s your favorite place to take a photo?

Crissy Field or Fisherman’s Wharf – anywhere with that beautiful Golden Gate Bridge in the background. It’s such a gorgeous landmark!

Where do you indulge your artistic side in San Francisco?

As a professional choreographer and dancer, I indulge my artistic side a lot. As the nation’s first transgender choreographer, I’ve toured my work to more than 25 U.S. cities… but there is nothing like performing for my home audience in San Francisco. I perform my work at many Bay Area venues, including the gorgeous 13,000-square-foot historic theater Z Space in the Mission District.

What’s your favorite event that happens in San Francisco?

It’s a tie! My two favorites are the annual Fresh Meat Festival of Transgender & Queer Performance and the annual San Francisco Transgender Film Festival in November. Both present truly world-class transgender artistry, both have enormous sold-out audiences, and both are a TON of fun.

Where and what would you choose for your last meal in San Francisco?

I would choose either the cassoulet or a mushroom crepe from Café Bastille! Add a double espresso (or two) and a Crème Brulee!

Which restaurant is still on your list to dine at in San Francisco?

I still haven’t eaten at the amazing Brenda's French Soul Food. I must get there!

Any last final advice for travelers in San Francisco?

Do a mix of things on the beaten path AND off of it. It’s totally worth walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and doing those sorts of things – I enjoy them myself! But also make sure to get a picnic at Dolores Park, look up what locals love to do. This is a magical city with endless magical things to do!