YOU’RE INVITED TO THE RIALTO!
The Rialto Theatre’s 90th Birthday Gala
BY RYAN M. LUÉVANO
Rialto Marquee. Photo Credit: Friends of the Rialto.
Perhaps you’ve driven past the faded Rialto Theatre marquee on Fair Oaks Avenue, or maybe you’ve just recently seen the theatre showcased in the sixth season of ABC’s Modern Family—whatever the case may be, the currently vacant Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena is turning 90 on October 17th 2015—and everyone is invited! As a fundraising initiative for revitalization and renovation of the Rialto Theatre, the Los Angeles Historic Foundation, Friends of the Rialto, and Conundrum Theatre Company have organized a 90th Anniversary Gala open to anyone in the community who would like to support this cause. A big thank you to current Rialto owner Izek Shomof who has graciously granted permission for this one night only celebration in this historic neighborhood movie palace.
The evening will feature gourmet concessions, cocktails and a selection of exciting performances and short silent films ringing true to the spirit of 1920s vaudeville in which the theatre was born. Guests will also have a unique opportunity to explore this historic theatre, including private tours for VIP ticket-holders. Friends of the Rialto, lead by “theatre-man” Escott O. Norton, will also showcase their multi-phased plan to revitalize the building to its original use, bringing a variety cinematic and live performing arts to the venue.
The interior is especially well preserved, with original artwork, murals and a drinking fountain made of Batchelder tile, a mark of California Arts and Crafts design. Photo Credit: Irfan Khan.
The interior is an irreverent mash-up of Spanish baroque architecture and Egyptian kitsch. Photo Credit: Irfan Khan.
The ultimate goal of the Friends of the Rialto is to transform the theatre into an affordable venue for a wide variety of local artists to present their work to the public through an innovative business model. Once all phases are complete, the entire building will be activated, allowing for multiple groups to use it at the same time. In order to make this dream a reality the team is asking for the support of the entire community. Accordingly, all proceeds from the birthday celebration will go to support this cause.
Come one, come all—let’s take a step for the Rialto’s future to preserve its glorious past!
For more information and tickets please click: HERE
To RSVP on FACEBOOK CLICK: HERE
Conundrum Theatre Co. is still looking for performers for this event, if you’re interested please e-mail: conundrumtheatreco@gmail.com
