Rialto Theatre
Historic theater and concert venue in downtown Tucson, Arizona, operated by the nonprofit Rialto Theatre Foundation.
Last updated September 15, 2026
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Overview
The Rialto Theatre is a historic entertainment venue in downtown Tucson, Arizona. Built in 1920 by the California-based firm William Curlett and Son, it was designed to provide entertainment for the common man, echoing the original Venetian Rialto. Today it is stewarded by the Rialto Theatre Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that presents a broad range of performing arts, educational programs, and community events.
History
The Rialto Theatre opened in 1920 in Tucson, Arizona. It was built by the California-based firm William Curlett and Son, the same firm behind the Hotel Congress across Congress Street. The name 'Rialto' refers to the medieval covered bridge in Venice around which novelty shops were built, creating an entertainment district for the common man. The Rialto was intended to provide entertainment for the common man, an ethos that has continued. In 1930, the theater installed a lighted mini-marquee reading 'Our Screen Talks!' to advertise the arrival of talkies. Today, the Rialto Theatre Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, preserves and stewards the historic venue, supporting performing arts, educational programs, and community events.
Products and positioning
A historic, nonprofit-run venue at the heart of downtown Tucson, dedicated to live music, performance, and community culture.
Product categories. live music concerts · performing arts events · educational programs · community events
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