Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California
The Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California, a venerable landmark along the historic Route 66, stands as a silent sentinel, its doors closed to the public since 2007. Yet, within its walls, echoes of a vibrant past mingle with whispers of the spectral, creating an atmosphere that both captivates and chills. More than just a relic of a bygone era, the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California is a repository of memories, a stage for both cinematic dreams and enduring mysteries.
Erected in 1924 and inaugurated on October 17, 1925, the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California was conceived in a flamboyant Spanish Baroque style, subtly infused with Egyptian motifs. Its grand design, capable of accommodating 1200 patrons, included ten dressing rooms for performers, a spacious scenic loft for set construction, an orchestra pit to house live musicians, and a deep stage ready to host a variety of acts. The interior was a feast for the eyes, adorned with meticulously crafted picture tiles, vibrant stenciling, and elaborate plaster ornaments. Among these ornaments were striking figures of harpies – creatures blending the forms of women and vultures – and imposing mythical gargoyles, adding to the theater’s unique character.
The opening night was a grand affair, a testament to the Rialto’s ambition to become a premier entertainment venue. A skilled organist showcased the capabilities of the theater’s magnificent Wurlitzer organ, filling the auditorium with melodious tones. The Rialto orchestra provided live accompaniment to the world premiere of the film "What Happened To Jones?". Before the main feature, the audience was treated to a diverse program of Vaudeville acts, including performances by daring trapeze artists. All of this entertainment was available for the modest sum of 30 cents. Even during the challenging years of the Great Depression, the theater managed to stay afloat by offering prizes to attract customers, demonstrating its resourcefulness and commitment to serving the community.
As the popularity of Vaudeville waned in the 1930s, the Rialto adapted by introducing three-act prologues before the feature films. This ensured a continued stream of live entertainment for its patrons. However, the decade also brought hardship in the form of a backstage fire, forcing the theater to temporarily close its doors. While the Rialto did eventually reopen, live theater never fully returned to its stage, marking a significant shift in its programming.
Throughout its operational years, the theater underwent several changes in ownership, and its prized possessions, including the historic Wurlitzer organ, were sold off. In the 1960s, the Rialto shifted its focus to showing more specialized films, including silent movies, catering to a niche audience. The Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California faced another trial by fire in 1968, but it was restored once again, showcasing its resilience.
A defining moment in the Rialto’s history came in 1975 with the release of the cult classic "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." The film began a remarkable three-decade run at the theater, screened every Saturday night at midnight for many years. While the film’s popularity eventually waned, leading to monthly showings, its association with the Rialto remains a memorable chapter in the theater’s story.
In July 1976, the Landmark Corporation assumed operations of the theater under a 100-year lease. Soon after, the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California faced a new threat: redevelopment plans in South Pasadena that could have resulted in the demolition of the iconic movie house. However, local residents rallied in protest, recognizing the Rialto’s historical significance and cultural value. Their efforts were successful, and in 1978, the Rialto was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, securing its protection.
The 1970s and 1980s saw the Rialto experimenting with different types of programming. The theater began hosting concerts and screening more mainstream movies in an attempt to broaden its appeal and attract a larger audience. However, the rise of multiplex theaters, offering a wider selection of films and modern amenities, presented a significant challenge.
As the years passed, the Rialto’s condition gradually deteriorated. Discussions began in the 1990s regarding a complete renovation of the theater, with proposals ranging from restoring it to its former glory to converting it into a multiplex cinema. However, in 2000, Landmark’s parent company, Silver Cinemas, declared bankruptcy, leaving no funds available for the much-needed renovation.
Despite being considered one of the finest and least altered theaters in the Los Angeles area, the Rialto’s aging condition became increasingly apparent. The carpets were frayed, the paint was chipped, and the velvet seats were faded. While customers may have held fond memories of the aging movie house, they often opted for the more modern cinemas with their ample parking, comfortable seating, and diverse film choices.
Ultimately, the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California succumbed to declining ticket sales and closed its doors on August 19, 2007. While the theater’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places ensured its preservation from demolition, its future remains uncertain. Although redevelopment plans have been proposed, they have yet to be approved, leaving the fate of the building unresolved.
Adding to the Rialto’s mystique are persistent rumors of it being haunted. Over the years, numerous tales have circulated, alleging that several individuals met their demise within its walls. One particularly chilling story tells of a young woman who allegedly slit her wrists in the bathroom before making her way to the balcony, where she bled to death. Another account speaks of a man who descended into madness while working in the projector booth.
According to staff and visitors, the stalls in the women’s bathroom are known to shake inexplicably. Within the theater itself, the apparition of an elderly man is frequently seen sitting in various seats and walking along the balcony stairs. Some speculate that this figure could be the spirit of the man who went insane in the projector booth.
Another spectral resident of the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California is said to be a cat. In the theater’s early days, a feline served as its mascot, often seen roaming the premises, rubbing against customers’ legs, and occasionally strolling in front of the screen. According to some tales, this cat continues to stealthily move through the theater, and its presence is sometimes indicated by an eerie red light that appears when the phantom walks in front of the movie screen.
One visitor reported witnessing a dark figure gliding down from the stage, moving towards the theater seats before disappearing into the lobby. These are just a few of the many unexplained occurrences that have contributed to the Rialto’s reputation as a haunted location.
In addition to these dramatic accounts, more commonplace paranormal events have also been reported. These include abnormalities in photographs taken inside the theater, uneasy feelings experienced in certain areas, particularly the women’s restroom, and faint whispers that can sometimes be heard.
Paranormal investigation groups that have explored the Haunted Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena, California generally agree that it is highly likely to be haunted, adding to its allure and mystique.
Today, the historic Rialto Theatre stands at 1023 Fair Oaks Avenue in South Pasadena, California, a silent witness to decades of entertainment and unexplained phenomena. While its future remains uncertain, its legacy as a Route 66 icon and a potential haven for spirits endures.