BENEFIT GALA OPENING
Victor Borge and the Chicago Pops Orchestra -
November 27,1981 |
The
former
"vaudeville movie
palace"
changed its costume to a "performing arts center"
on November 27,1981.
Actual restoration began
in April of 1980.
Conrad Schmitt Studios
of New Berlin, Wisconsin, restored and renovated
the theatre beyond its original magnificence.
|
|
|
A PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
A campaign to "Save the Rialto" for future generations as a performing
arts center was initiated by Dorothy Mavrich, president
of the Rialto Square Arts Association - now the
Cultural Arts Council of the Joliet Area.
"Save the Rialto" involved
the entire community. With the assistance of local
businessman, Christo Dragatsis, support was sought
from city, state and federal officials. Former State
Representative, LeRoy Van Duyne, was instrumental
in obtaining the necessary funds for purchase of
the properties.
Listed on the National
Register of Historic Places, the Rialto is a not-for-profit
organization under the direction of the Rialto Square
Theatre Corporation. The Will County Metropolitan
Exposition and Auditorium Authority is at the helm
of the Rialto Square properties.
For tour, rental and general information
call 815-726-7171.
|
