Rialto Square Theatre

The Rialto Square Theatre, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a historic vaudeville movie palace that opened its doors on May 24, 1926. It was conceived and funded by the six Rubens brothers, who formed the Royal Theatre Company to oversee the $2 million project. Upon its completion, the operation of the theatre was leased to Great States Theatre, Inc., while the property remained under the Rubens brothers' control. Designed by the renowned architectural firm of Rapp & Rapp, founded by C.W. and George L. Rapp in 1906, the Rialto Square Theatre is a testament to their legacy of creating ornate theatres across the Midwest. The construction was executed by Kaiser-Ducett, a company notable for its work on the Chicago’s 1933 World’s Fair exhibits. The theatre's exquisite European architecture features the signature work of sculptor Eugene Romeo, a Sicilian immigrant whose craftsmanship can also be seen in several prominent Chicago buildings. The Rialto Square Theatre is often referred to as the "Jewel of Joliet" and is recognized as one of the ten most beautiful theaters in the nation. Its architectural style is a blend of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences, with a grand niche rising above the main entrance on Chicago Street. The interior design includes elements inspired by the Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Pantheon in Rome. The theater is adorned with a magnificent eight-arm crystal chandelier known as the Duchess, and features Corinthian-style columns and a rotunda with a fountain. In 1981, the theater transitioned from a vaudeville movie palace to a performing arts center, following a restoration effort that began in April 1980. The restoration, led by Conrad Schmitt Studios, returned the theater to its original splendor and beyond. The campaign to save the Rialto as a performing arts center was spearheaded by Dorothy Mavrich, president of the Cultural Arts Council of the Joliet Area. The Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority was established in 1978 to own and operate the theater, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rialto Square Theatre Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, accepts donations to support the theater's ongoing preservation. In 2006, a $5 million capital campaign called "Polishing the Jewel of Joliet" was successfully completed with the support of the community, local businesses, and government, leading to further improvements of the theater. Today, the Rialto Square Theatre continues to be a cultural hub, hosting a variety of events including shows, weddings, and other community gatherings. It remains a cherished landmark, embodying the pride and dedication of the Joliet community and its commitment to preserving a piece of its artistic and cultural heritage.