After three-plus years of fundraising, negotiating, brainstorming, and no shortage of elbow grease, the former Original Joe's has officially transformed into a multi-stage venue, PianoFight, complete with a cozy-sleek restaurant for post-perfomance refreshments. 

While many theater companies around the Bay Area are slowly shuttering, PianoFight promises to breathe new life into the local drama scene. The 50-person company is composed of "artists of all stripes and disciplines—film, theater, comedy, dance, music, visual art," co-founder and artistic director Rob Ready explains. This deliciously dizzying variety is what sets PianoFight apart from the crowd. 

Part of the space's long development stems from the founders' dedication to classic quality with modern touches, whether it's in their performances, respectful remodeling of Original Joe's, or the libations of choice. Instead of a multi-page cocktail menu, the beverage options focus on a handful of well-crafted, classic cocktails that rotate with the season (and the bartender's mood). Recipes are based off of old faithfuls like the Manhattan, Bee's Knees, or Hanky Panky, with a subtle trade-up of new ingredients.

The space opens on December 19 with A Merry Forking! Christmas, a performance that's sure to put a spring in your step. Between the herb-shilling Santa and mortician characters, the holiday show is a relief from the norm. It'll even satisfy your inner narcisist, given that audience participation guides the show through one of 382,000 possible outcomes. So grab a beer, don your Santa cap, and get ready to roll in the aisles. 144 Taylor Street