Rock the Rialto: Supporting Tucson’s Historic Music Venue
Nestled in the heart of downtown Tucson, the Rialto Theatre is not just a concert hall; it’s a cherished part of the community’s fabric, a historic landmark that has captivated audiences for over a century. As it stands today, the Rialto Theatre Foundation, under the stewardship of Executive Director Cathy Rivers, nurtures not only the Rialto but also three other downtown Tucson spaces: 191 Toole, R Bar, and El Regalo. With a mission rooted in preserving arts, music, and culture, the Rialto invites you to become part of its ongoing legacy.
A Legacy of Memories
Every visit to the Rialto has the potential to become a cherished memory. Perhaps you tied the knot on its stunning stage, experienced your first concert with us, or ushered during its days as El Cine Plaza, a vibrant Spanish-language film house of the early 1970s. Each moment at the Rialto contributes to its rich tapestry of stories, connecting generations through the shared love
of music and performance. As we embark on a new chapter, we invite you to share your Rialto memories and consider how you might help keep this historic venue alive for future audiences.
Why Support the Rialto Now?
As a nonprofit organization, the Rialto Theatre Foundation relies heavily on the generosity of individuals who recognize the intrinsic value of arts and culture. Today, the need is more pressing than ever. With an average of 190,000 patrons enjoying our performances annually, maintaining our historic venue is crucial. From essential renovations like a new roof and updated air conditioning to high-end professional stage, audio, and lighting equipment, your support can ensure that the Rialto continues to shine as a premier music venue for generations to come.
The costs of preservation and maintenance are significant. Grants and funding for arts organizations can be competitive and often fall short of actual needs. This is why we turn to our community—your contributions can have a direct impact, helping us provide high-quality experiences for artists and audiences alike.
The Impact of Your Contribution
When you support the Rialto, you are investing in more than just a building; you are nurturing a cultural hub that brings joy to countless individuals. Every dollar donated goes back into enhancing our facilities, maintaining state-of-the-art equipment, and supporting local artists.
Whether you’re purchasing concert tickets, enjoying a drink at R Bar, or shopping for unique gifts at El Regalo, your spending helps sustain our operations. This year alone, we have partnered with the VetTix program to donate $130,000 in concert tickets to active duty service members and veterans. We are on track to host a record 375 concerts and events at Rialto and 191 Toole in 2024 and have already distributed over 200,000 concert tickets this year. These accomplishments underscore our commitment to community engagement and the vital role that the Rialto plays in Tucson’s cultural landscape.
How You Can Help
There are countless ways to support the Rialto. Here are just a few:
Attend a Concert: Experience the magic of live music while helping to sustain the venue.
Become a Member: Enjoy exclusive perks, including presale tickets, drinks at R Bar, and special events.
Visit El Regalo: Browse our gift shop for local merchandise and Rialto-branded items.
Spread the Word: Share your Rialto experiences on social media to inspire others to support us.
Sponsor Our Educational Programs: Become a sponsor of our Stage Crafters Youth Education Program and help young adults learn entertainment and vocational skills.
Every effort counts, and we are grateful for your support in whatever form it takes. Remember, the heart of the Rialto beats strongest when the community rallies around it.
Join Us in Preserving History
As we look to the future, we invite you to join us in keeping the Rialto Theatre thriving. Whether it’s through donations, attendance, or simply sharing your favorite Rialto stories, your involvement can help us maintain this historic venue for generations to come. Let’s keep the music alive, together.
Rock the Rialto! Your support makes all the difference and keeps us rocking for many more years to come. Learn more at rialtotheatre.com.