Ghosts of the Rialto Theatre in Joliet
The majestic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois, stands as a testament to a bygone era of opulent entertainment. More than just a historical landmark and architectural marvel, the Rialto Theatre is also rumored to be a haven for spectral residents, its opulent halls echoing with tales of unexplained phenomena and lingering spirits. This "Palace for the People," as it was envisioned, has captivated audiences for nearly a century, and it appears some of those audiences, or perhaps performers, have never truly left.
A Palace for the People: The Rialto’s Grand Genesis
The story of the Rialto Theatre begins in 1926 with the vision of the six Rubens brothers, who formed the Royal Theatre Company with the ambition of constructing a grand "Palace for the People." They sought to create an entertainment venue that would rival the most lavish theaters in major cities. To bring this vision to life, they enlisted the renowned Rapp & Rapp Architect firm of Chicago, celebrated for their expertise in designing opulent movie palaces.
The resulting architectural masterpiece is a breathtaking fusion of styles, drawing inspiration from the Italian Renaissance, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Rococo, Venetian, and Baroque periods. The construction of the Rialto Theatre was an ambitious undertaking, costing nearly two million dollars, a staggering sum in the 1920s. After two years of meticulous craftsmanship, the theatre opened its doors on May 24, 1926, immediately establishing itself as a cultural landmark.
Even before its grand premiere, the Joliet Herald News recognized the significance of the Rialto Theatre, proclaiming that "Joliet will have one of the finest theaters in the United States, as experts say there is nothing to compare with it in any city of similar size, and it stands on even terms with the modern motion picture palaces of Chicago and New York."
A Night at the Rialto: Opulence and Entertainment
On opening night, patrons paid a mere 50 cents to experience the grandeur of the Rialto Theatre and to see the silent movie "Mademoiselle Modiste." As they entered, they were immediately transported to a world of unparalleled luxury. The inner lobby was styled after the Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles, while the dome in the rotunda was reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome, complete with one of the largest hand-cut crystal chandeliers in the country. The archway connecting the esplanade and rotunda area was meticulously replicated from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Every detail of the Rialto Theatre was designed to impress, from the numerous sculptures and works of art to the elaborate drapes and furnishings. Adding to the comfort of its patrons, the theatre was fully air-conditioned, a rare luxury at the time.
For decades, the Rialto Theatre thrived as a premier entertainment venue, hosting a diverse range of performances, including vaudeville acts, stage productions, musical and comedic entertainers, ballet, and opera. During the "Golden Age" of films, it also served as a popular movie house. Over the years, the theatre welcomed legendary performers such as Andy Williams, Mitzi Gaynor, Red Skelton, Victor Borge, and Liberace, solidifying its place in entertainment history. Interestingly, the Rialto Theatre was also known to be a favorite haunt of the infamous Al Capone.
Restoration and Revival: Preserving a Legacy
By the mid-1970s, the Rialto Theatre had begun to show its age. Time and weather had taken their toll on the magnificent structure, and the theatre faced the threat of demolition. However, a dedicated group of citizens, forming the Rialto Square Arts Association (now the Cultural Arts Council of the Joliet Area), launched a grassroots campaign to save the beloved landmark.
Through the support of local businesses and the efforts of city, state, and federal officials, funds were secured to undertake a comprehensive restoration project. Work commenced in April 1980, and by the following year, the "Palace for the People" had been meticulously restored to its former glory, reopening as the Performing Arts Center.
Today, the Rialto Theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of the top 10 theaters in the country. It continues to host plays, concerts, and other talent, serves as home to the Rialto School of the Arts, and hosts numerous events and meetings, ensuring its legacy as a vibrant cultural hub.
The Spectral Side: Tales of the Rialto’s Ghosts
Beyond its rich history and architectural splendor, the "Jewel of Joliet" is also known for its ghostly inhabitants. The most frequently sighted apparition is a nameless spectral woman, believed to be an actress who performed at the theatre many years ago. Described as a beautiful woman in her twenties, sometimes surrounded by a hazy light, she is thought to have been a prominent performer in her time. Staff, customers, and workmen have reported seeing her floating around the theatre, with her activity increasing during periods when the theatre was closed to the public. Many believe that her love for performing at the Rialto Theatre keeps her tethered to this world.
Another pair of spirits, a male and a female, are sometimes spotted in the auditorium’s balcony. Legend has it that this couple tragically fell to their deaths from the balcony, and like many who have met untimely ends, they are unable to move on.
In addition to these specific apparitions, other paranormal occurrences have been reported throughout the Rialto Theatre. These include sudden drops in temperature, unexplained noises, objects moving on their own, and the sensation of being touched or "jabbed" by an unseen finger. These reports contribute to the theatre’s reputation as a haunted location and add another layer of intrigue to its already fascinating history.
Whether one believes in ghosts or not, the tales of the Rialto Theatre’s spectral residents add to the theatre’s mystique and charm. They serve as a reminder of the many lives that have passed through its doors and the enduring power of this historic landmark. The Rialto Theatre is more than just a building; it is a repository of memories, dreams, and perhaps, lingering spirits.
Visiting the Rialto Square Theatre
The Rialto Theatre continues to be a vibrant part of the Joliet community, offering a diverse range of entertainment options.
Contact Information:
Rialto Square Theatre
102 North Chicago Street
Joliet, Illinois 60432
815-726-6600
http://www.rialtosquare.com/