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January 24, 2006
Emperor Norton
A beloved figure in this city's history, Emperor Joshua Norton paved the way for San Francisco eccentrics about 150 years ago. As the self-proclaimed Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico, Norton held court in SF from 1854-1880. He issued both his own currency (which was honored by restaurants and theaters) and proclamations (he was one of the first to propose building the Golden Gate Bridge).
He was also a bicyclist -- which is why some of us in the SFBC made a giant papier mache Emperor Norton and biked him down Mission Street in the 1998 Carnaval parade. Parade biking = fun biking.
I was remembering all of this on Sunday, when Nicole and I went to see "Emperor Norton: The Musical" at the Dark Room Theater. It had creativity and spirit in spades, so I'll let my official review stand at "uneven," but I can't really recommend it, except for the most die-hard Emperor Norton fans.
Posted by emily at January 24, 2006 10:02 AM
Comments
Who is not a "die-hard" Emperor Norton fan? Treason, I say!
Thanks for taking me! I enjoyed it despite any unevenness. That picture of you is so CUTE!!
Posted by: Nicole at January 24, 2006 11:32 AM