Rialto Square Theatre offers history & ambiance
An interview with Micah J. McDade, marketing & press manager at Rialto Square Theatre.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the venue/business.
A: Opening in 1926, it was originally designed and operated as a vaudeville movie palace, but it now houses musicals, plays, concerts and comedians. It is also available for public and private functions (weddings, graduations, corporate events). Designed in the Neo-Baroque style, it is considered one of "150 great places in Illinois" by the American Institute of Architects, and "one of the world's most magnificent theatres." Today, the Rialto Square Theatres hosts more than 150 events a year including concerts, comedians, stage musicals, weddings, special events and movies.
Q: Explain the history. How did it get started?
A: C.W. and George Rapp designed the Rialto Square Theatre in 1924, and the theatre opened May 24, 1926 as a vaudeville movie house. In 1972, a campaign to "Save the Rialto" was initiated and led by Miss Dorothy Mavrich. As the campaign became more organized the group became known as the Rialto Square Arts Association. Assisted by local businessman Christo Dragatsis, Miss Mavrich began to garner support from city, state and federal officials.
In 1978 the Rialto complex became public property and the Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority was established to provide leadership for the impending restoration of the theatre property. Today the Rialto Square Theatre is thriving as a major entertainment hub of Will County.
Q: What do you offer when it comes to corporate meetings?
A: We have a gorgeous hospitality suite that serves as an elegant rental space. For larger events, we can rent the theatre (1,966 seats) or the esplanade and rotunda.
Q: Describe the atmosphere.
A: The atmosphere of the Rialto Square Theatre is pure elegance and class. From the moment you enter under the historic marquee, and pass through the ticket lobby, past the original center box office, you are transported back in time. The stunning Duchess chandelier, the largest of its kind in the United States, greets you as it floats high above the rotunda. Take the grand staircase up to the hospitality suite before you find your seat in the opulent theatre with a fully updated state-of-the-art sound system. Sit back, relax and enjoy "one of the world's most magnificent theatres."
Q: What are some upcoming shows our readers should be aware of?
A: We have so many great shows coming up. In May we welcome the return of stage musicals to the Rialto Square Theatre with the brand new tour of The Sound of Music. Also in May we welcome the living legend himself, Tony Bennett. Looking ahead to the summer and beyond, we have Criss Angel, golf legend David Feherety, the stage musical based on the music of Queen, We Will Rock You, and the Nick Junior's hit show, come to life, Peppa Pig's Adventure.
In addition to all these great live shows, we also offer a monthly movie series where tickets are only $5. We are constantly announcing new shows. We encourage everyone to follow us on social media (@rialtosquaretheatre on Facebook and Instagram, @rialtosquare on Twitter). To get a full look at our upcoming schedule, visit rialtosquare.com.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself. What is your past experience in the industry?
A: I came to the Rialto Square Theatre about 15 months ago from South Carolina after graduating with my MBA (marketing) from Clemson University (Go Tigers!) I have spent my entire career in marketing and press for live theatre, concert and events. I started my career in NYC doing marketing & press for Broadway and national tour, and have grown from there. My career has taken me all over the country, to many different theatres. I can honestly say, of all the theatres I've worked at and for in my life, the Rialto Square Theatre is the most beautiful. Joliet is lucky to have it in their backyard.
Rialto Square Theatre
<b>101 N. Chicago St.</b><b>Joliet, IL 60432</b>Owners: Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority & Rialto Square Theatre Foundation
Number of employees: 9 full-time employees, several part-time staffers and countless volunteers
When business opened: 1926
Web address: Rialtosquare.com