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Rialto Square Theatre 100th Anniversary

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Celebrating 100 Years

Kelly Baltas

Donnie Chestnutt

Jane Condon

Evie Cora

Amber Duffy

Dale T. Evans

Bob Filotto

Deb Filotto

Mark Gargiulo

Krystin Gilbert

Jen Hannon

Debbie Highland

Sarah Kinsella

Jennifer Koff

Kate Meehan

Dan Mosier

Ava Paris

Steve Randich

Tim Shanahan

John Simpson

Mayor Terry and Sue D’Arcy, Honorary Chairs

Rialto Square Theatre Staff

Wade Welsh, Executive Director

Shane Richards, Director of Operations

Emily Carey, Marketing Coordinator

Jack Ericksen, Dir. Of Sales & Sponsorships

Zach Giese, Technical Director

Kathleen Haberkorn, Finance Manager

Lisa Murphy, Finance Assistant

Leann Hoffrogge, Mgr. Of Event Services

Nancy Lindmark, Event Manager (weddings)

Kris Hernandez, Ticket Office Manager

Krystal Hernandez Ehrman, Ticket Office Assistant Manager

Christine Sturm, Administrative Assistant

Ed Krazanik, Lead Engineer

Josh Lindmark, Facility Engineer

RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE

January 22, 2025

STATE OF ILLINOIS

Dear Friends of the Rialto Square Theatre,

On behalf of the City of Joliet, Will County, and the State of Illinois, it is an honor and a pleasure to offer heartfelt congratulations to the Rialto Square Theatre as it celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Since its grand opening on May 24, 1926, the Rialto Square Theatre has stood as a proud symbol of Joliet's cultural heritage and civic spirit. For a full century, this magnificent venue has served as a vital community landmark - welcoming generations of residents and visitors to experience the power of live performance within one of Illinois's most iconic historic theaters.

The Rialto's enduring presence has enriched the cultural life of Joliet, bringing joy and unforgettable moments to audiences of all ages. It is a place where stories are shared, memories are made, and community is strengthened. The Rialto has demonstrated its unique ability to unite people through the arts, fostering connection and civic pride.

Beyond its cultural significance, the Rialto Square Theatre has long served as an essential economic engine for downtown Joliet and in the surrounding region. Its year-round programming has played a central role in supporting local restaurants, businesses, and tourism, helping to sustain a vibrant community.

The Centennial milestone is a testament to the dedication of those who have supported the Rialto throughout its history – its leadership, staff, volunteers, patrons, donors, and civic advocates. We extend our sincere appreciation to all who have worked to preserve this treasured institution and ensure its continued success.

Congratulations on 100 years of excellence, service, and inspiration. May the next century be as bright and impactful as the first.

With great pride and best wishes,

100 YEARS

A Century of Entertainment and Fond Memories

From George and Donna Barr and Family

Authority Board successful working ‘behind the curtains’

The Rialto Square Theatre’s shows and performances do not happen by accident. There are many individuals and groups that “operate behind the curtain” that ensures the Theatre runs smoothly.

S ince 1978, the Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority Board (the Authority Board) has been charged with the day-to-day operation of the Theatre. The current 7-member Authority Board was appointed in early 2017. The Governor of the State of Illinois appoints three members, and four members are appointed by the Mayor of Joliet. The Authority Board meets monthly and is open to public attendance.

“ Most of the current Authority Board has served the Theatre since 2017, according to Bob Filotto, current Chairman of the Authority Board. In late 2016, a third-party management company, VenuWorks, was contracted to manage the Theatre operations on a day-to-day basis. With over 60 venues in over 25 cities, VenuWorks brings a wealth of industry knowledge, agent relationships and expertise to assist the Authority Board. “Our number of performances and number of patrons that visit the Theatre has increased significantly since working with VenuWorks”, Filotto said.

F ilotto further stated that it truly takes a collective effort to make the Theatre a success year in and year out. While there are many to thank, he specifically sited financial support from area state legislators, Will County, the City of Joliet and the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation.

T oday, the Theatre is utilized approximately 150 days per year and welcomes approximately 150,000 patrons through its doors.

Recent capital improvements include a new and complete roofing system and significant expansion of both the women’s and men’s washroom facilities. On June 1, 2026, the Theatre will close for 3 ½ months to replace the heating and air conditioning system, reopening in mid September, 2026.

F ilotto also credits the overall success of the Theatre to the highly dedicated staff and executive leadership at the Theatre. Together, we all do what is best for the continued success of the Theatre.

“Had prom there in 1989it was A BLAST!!!”
- Lisa Peters

RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE Authority Board

Bob Filotto, President

Jeff Pierson, Vice Chairman

Kathy Trizna, Secretary/Treasurer

Tim Broderick, Board Member

Donnie Chestnutt, Board Member

Jane Condon, Board Member

William Kent, Board Member

Sherri Reardon, City of Joliet Liaison

Rialto Square Theatre Foundation provides leadership, financial resources

Charged with providing fundraising support for the historic theatre, the 17-member volunteer group of the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation provides leadership and financial resources to support the cultural and educational programs of the theatre.

When thinking about the Rialto Square Theatre, President of the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation Steve Randich said, “People have so many fond memories and thoughts about the theatre.”

The Foundation board, which meets every other month, is appointed to three-year staggered terms. It began under the umbrella of the Authority Board, he added, but in 2011, it became its own entity. Randich said, “Our role is to promote the theatre. We raise money to help the theatre.” Since it became a stand alone entity, the foundation has raised more than $1 million.

Foundation money was used to renovate the theatre’s six dressing rooms, according to Randich. “(The renovations) are not seen by the general public,” Randich said, “With some very famous people coming to Joliet, we decided to make these look nice, so when they came, they had a good impression.”

Tackling projects like these, Randich added, “Gives us a chance to help the theatre.” With the additional financial support from grants from the Route 66 fund, two murals were created; one that “depicts the history of the theatre over the past century at the front of the building,” and a commemorative 100th anniversary banner on the back of the building.

Each year, the Foundation’s biggest fundraiser coincides with Home for the Holidays series that begins during Thanksgiving week through the holidays. The lineup of family-friendly shows includes classic titles, holiday favorites, and wellknown artists.

In 2025, the Foundation began a new event aimed at young adults, the Jingle Mingle. Other events include the Teddy Bear Tea, which is a family tradition for many that features a brunch buffet, a keepsake teddy bear, and a visit from St. Nick. Last year, 400 people came to two seatings of the event. In addition, the Foundation creates 15 baskets that are valued at more than $300 each and are raffled off. This year, more than $30,000 was raised, Randich said.

continued on page11

“My Grandma Voudrie took me to see Escape From Witch Mountain at the Rialto. That is my favorite memory, but I have also seen so many good concerts and shows there!!”

- Jen Voudrie

RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE Foundation

Steve Randich, President

Debbie Highland, Vice President

Tim Shanahan, Treasurer

Ava Paris, Secretary

Jane Condon, Liaison to the WCMEAA Board

Tricia Simpson, Emeritus Board Member

Evie Cora, Director

Amber Duffy, Director

Dale T. Evans, Director

Krystin Gilbert, Director

Ed Jarot, Director

Mike Jostes, Director

Sarah Kinsella, Director

Jennifer Koff, Director

Kate Meehan, Director

Dan Mosier, Director

John Simpson, Director

Congratulations to the Rialto Square Theater on 100 years of standing ovations.

We’re honored to be in the front row for your next act.

THANK YOU TO ALL the Volunteers past and present who have served

THE RIALTO SQUARE THEATRE over the past Years 100 Congratulations

From the Randich Family

continued from page 8

The Foundation also sponsors the Joliet American Legion Band concert, which is free to attend with a donation of a non-perishable food item. “We have done that show for more than 40 years,” Randich added.

For the last year, the board has been hard at work planning the Rialto Square’s 100th Anniversary celebration. On Thursday, March 12, a Business After Hours event will be held, followed by a senior organ concert and silent film on Tuesday, April 14. In May, two events will take place—a public reception on Sunday, May 3, and a 1920s themed Gala on Saturday, May 16.

“On Halloween night in 1997, my husband and I were married at the top of that gorgeous staircase and our reception followed right afterwards in the Rialto Square Theatre. So many beautiful memories of that night. It was magical.”

Maurice Rubens conducted a of the building on December 8, 1925 members of the Joliet Rotary Club. 25,000-gallon water tank on top of building was tested by f ire departofficials and engineers, which included testing the automatic sprinkler system installed throughout the building. On October 20, 1925, the archiand contractors performed a baltest load of 110,000 pounds with sacks of cement (pictured here). The balcony was designed to require no supporting columns below The test was conducted with Fire Chief Calvin Royce James Corcoran, deputy police commissioner. "With the props released, downward bulge was scarcely recorded on the measuring device and well within the minimum set for the pressure." 17

Rialto Theatre history reflects 100 years of change across America

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With a 100-year history that includes enough twists and turns to warrant its own theatre production, at the heart of the longevity of Joliet’s Rialto Square Theatre are the countless volunteers, dedicated staff, and talented performers who have stepped through its doors.

On the evening of May 24, 1926, the $2 million Rubens’ Rialto Square Theatre first opened its doors to the public as a vaudeville movie palace. At the time, the Exhibitors Herald proclaimed, “Joliet, Illinois, having a published population of 38,400 today has what is unquestionably the finest motion picture theater for a city of this size in the country.” The story credited the six Rubens brothers with building a playhouse “on par with any picture palaces in New York or Chicago.”

crystal chandeliers that exists in the United States.

In addition, the theatre houses the Golden Voiced Barton Grande Theatre Pipe Organ. It began its musical career at the opening of the Rialto Square Theatre and today is one of the few remaining original pipe organ installations left in North America. Since 1971, it has been maintained by the Joliet Area Theater Organ Enthusiasts. During the 1920’s, it accompanied silent movies and vaudeville acts and continues to be a major attraction and historic treasure to the theatre.

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The theatre was designed by architects C.W. and George L Rapp with an emphasis on European architecture and in doing so created a jaw-dropping venue. The esplanade or inner lobby was designed to recreate the Palace of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors in the Joliet theatre. The rotunda is surrounded by 18 Corinthianstyle columns and suspended in the center is an eight-arm crystal chandelier, dubbed the ‘Duchess,’ one of the largest hand-cut

In 1928, the first all-talking picture, “The Lights of New York” premiered at the Rialto. From the 1930s through the 1960s, many notable artists of the time appeared at the theater, including Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, the Marx Brothers, and Lawrence Welk—just to name a few. The Rialto also hosted many events, including “Bank Nights” during World War II for war bond sales. In addition, during that difficult time, the theater saw some of its volunteer ushers leave to join the armed forces. Still, Saturday morning cartoon matinees remained and included popcorn, candy, and snow cones.

One pivotal moment in the history of the Rialto Square

Ben "Frenchie" Lewis The Princess Theatre
Photos Courtesy of Jim Ridings

Theatre occurred in the late 1970s to early 1980s when plans were underway to demolish the theatre and replace it with a parking garage. Dorthy Mavrich, a local music teacher, led the charge to save the theatre prior to its scheduled demolition to make way for a parking garage. According to Dale Evans, a former longtime employee of the Rialto who also joined to fight for the theatre’s future, Mavrich had been a patron of the theatre for many years. However, after attending a concert that featured the Pipe Organ and later touring the building, Evans said Mavrich concluded “this is too important a building to be bulldozed.”

“There was an idea at the time that to bring people back to Joliet, there had to be parking decks,” Evans said. “Dorothy felt the building had too much to offer in ways that were better than a parking deck,” he added.

The building was held in the trust of the descendants of the Rubens brothers and was for sale for $700,000. Mavrich set off on a mission to raise enough money to purchase the building. The “Save the Rialto” campaign drew vast community support from local business owners to government representatives. With the support of the community and city, state, and federal officials, the necessary funds were obtained to purchase the property. Thanks to the group’s successful effort, a new era was ushered in for the theatre.

In 1978, the Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority, or the often-referred-to Authority Board, a local unit of government, was created to own and operate the theatre. The same year, the theater was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1981, restoration of the iconic building began.

Upon the theatre’s re-opening, Victor Borge, the actor, comedian, and pianist, and the Chicago Pops Orchestra, premiered at the gala opening. In 1982, Liberace performed two sold-out shows. The Rialto has also made its way onto the big screen. In the summer of 1992, a scene from the John Goodman film “The Babe” was filmed in the theatre’s rotunda, highlighting the iconic chandelier.

In 2016, the Authority Board contracted wth VenuWorks, an Iowa-based venue management company, to operate the theatre. “It has been a really successful relationship,” Bob Filotto, one of the seven members of the Authority Board said. Under the administration of VenuWorks, he said, “We were able to increase the number of performances significantly and increase traffic to the theatre.”

Rialto Square Theatre Executive Director Wade Welsh said there are 13 full-time employees who assist with the day-today operations of the theatre. During the theatre’s busiest times, between 30 and 50 part-time employees also help out. “The last two years,” Welsh said, “Were the first two years that we have turned an operating profit” in the theatre’s history. “We are seeing the rewards and driving a lot of business to downtown Joliet.” , whose lives were marked by joy, friendship, a love of music, and the Rialto Theatre. Kay famously celebrated her actual 100th birthday on May 10, 2019 at a Tony Bennett show at the Rialto. A visit with Tony in his dressing room was a moment that captured her vibrant spirit. They are deeply missed and forever remembered.

“In the early 70’s, I was in Kiwanis show and sang “Baby It’s Cold Outside” on the Rialto stage!”
- Sandra Lettsome-Denewellis

(Grando) Shanahan

PROUD TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF THE RIALTO THEATRE

As the Rialto Theatre celebrates 100 years of service, we celebrate the countless lives they’ve touched. We are proud to support their mission today and for the generations still to come.

Shannahan

For 100 years the Rialto Square Theatre has sparked joy, applause and togetherness. We are so grateful for every supporter who kept the magic aliveonward to the next hundred years!

We saw Brian Setzer perform Christmas hits in November2014!

Looking forward

Congratulations Rialto on 100 Years!

Herb Lande, Owner

“Over the years I’ve seen many shows at this Jewel of Joliet and have enjoyed them all as a patron. Now I’m a Volunteer and have really come to appreciate the Rialto even more. The dedication and hard work that goes on behind the scenes of all involved is remarkable.”

Rialto Square Theatre on your

Volunteers are the ‘heartbeat of the Theatre’

Nicknamed ‘the penguins’ because they dress up in black and white, the volunteers to the theatre over the years have proved to be an invaluable resource to the theatre’s success. From ticket taking to ushering and fundraising, these volunteers are essential to the success of the theatre. Today, there are about 160 to 170 individuals who dedicate their time creating memorable experiences for audiences at the Rialto Square, according to Leann Hoffrogge, Rialto’s Manager of Event Services.

“Without our volunteers, we could not open our doors,” said Hoffrogge, who became a staff member charged with managing volunteers and other duties, as well as working as a volunteer at the Rialto for almost 16 years. When she volunteered, Hoffrogge predominantly worked in the green room setting up the space for the performers. Coming to the Rialto since she was a child, Hoffrogge said, “The Rialto held a special place in my heart.”

The Rialto Square Theatre Volunteers were officially formed in the late 1980s. At that time, Hoffrogge said, “the volunteers decided to take it upon themselves to help with fundraising. Since 1988, the volunteers have gifted the theatre $1.5 million. That money has been used to purchase computers, the under the balcony sound system, curtains, a movie projector— everything from garbage cans to you name it.”

“You probably couldn’t even put a price tag on” their contributions, according to President of the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation Steve Randich. A number of individuals have volunteered at the theatre for 35 to 40 years, including

Ava and Carmon Paris, who met at the theatre and, more than 40 years later, still volunteer for most of the shows that take place. Ava Paris remembers going to the Rialto Theatre when she was young to watch movies in the late 1960s.

Getting free tickets from Lorin Lynch, a longtime Rialto stagehand, Ava Paris and her brother attended a performance, and both were impressed by the refurbishment of the theatre following its near demolition in the 1980s. After seeing a notice in the newspaper about volunteering at the Rialto, Ava, and a friend who was also a teacher decided to try it out. “We had a lot of fun,” she said. The following year, Carmon, her now husband, and Ava became friends while both volunteering.

“I have many wonderful memories at the Rialto, but

my first visit was when my mom brought me to see the rerelease of Bambi more than 50 years ago. It was before the theatre was renovated

but even as a young child I could see the beauty and the majesty of the space. Seeing it in its glory is a treat every time!”

continued on page 21

“Since 1972, I have had the opportunity to perform on the Barton Grande and continue to do so today. Each performance is significant and rewarding, offering the privilege of playing this exceptional theater organ and collaborating with numerous entertainers throughout the years. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Joliet Area Theater Organ Enthusiasts, as well as the Rialto staff, volunteers, and stagehands for their unwavering commitment to promoting the Barton and ensuring its continued use.”

Today, the married couple is the Rialto Square’s longest volunteers, with Carmon Paris volunteering for 43 and a half years, with his wife, Ava, right behind him with 41 years. Carmon almost always works as a balcony usher captain, while his wife, Ava, primarily works as a balcony usher, “because that is where we met,” but added that “I do anything that they ask me to do.” Something the couple does for nearly every show.

Remembering when the theatre allowed smoking, Ava recalled how the mirrors and chandeliers were restored around 2014. She explained they carefully took apart the chandeliers and laid them on paper in the rotunda to ensure they could put them back together after cleaning them with dish detergent. “You could not believe how much brighter the theatre was,” she said.

Even today, after aso many years of volunteering, Ava said she still sees new things in the theatre. Sitting in the esplanade looking up at the chandeliers, Ava said she noticed little red crystals in the chandelier for the very first time, “There is always something new to find even after all these years.”

Ava would love the opportunity to go back in time and ask the Rubens brothers, “Why did you think that in Joliet, a blue-collar steel town, you could create such a beautiful, breathtaking theatre?”

One of Carmon’s biggest celebrity encounters was when he was asked to leave his behind-the-scenes post and appear on stage with Carol Burnett. His fondest memories are hanging out with the other volunteers after a show, heading out for pie and coffee to chat and tell stories about what happened that evening.

“We try to look out for one another,” Hoffrogge said, “People make lifelong friendships here.” Something that Hoffrogge has experienced herself. One of the favorite parts of her job is seeing the volunteers come in and catch up with one another. “We are a big family,” she added.

continued from page 18

Rialto’s trusted stageheands do the heavy lifting behind the scenes

There has been a group that has quietly and consistently worked behind the scenes to bring the magic of the theater to audiences. The 43 members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 124 are often the first to arrive at the Rialto Square Theatre prior to a show and the last to leave.

Tim Kelly, the secretary/treasurer of IATSE Local 124, admits “there are a lot of people who don’t know who the stagehands are, despite their longevity. We have been working at the Rialto since it was built,” he said. First chartered in October 1905, before the construction of the Rialto Square Theatre, Local 124 represents the stagehands, technicians, and theatrical craft professionals.

Although Local 124 works at other places, Kelly said, “We call the Rialto home.” And while much of his work is behind the curtain every once in a while, Kelly makes his way to the rotunda and “just to take in the magnificent beauty of the theatre.”

From constructing, installing, and operating lighting, sound

equipment, scenery, and special effects, these men and women bring to life concerts, films, and theatre to the community. Kelly added, “We load in all the equipment, set it all up, and do whatever needs to be done. Once the show is done, we are taking down the equipment until the doors are closed on the back of the semi and then we can leave.”

A stagehand for 43 years, Kelly serves as the steward, a liaison between the crew and management. He has also worked as an electrician, rigger or done carpentry; however, he said his “forte is the spotlight.” Kelly also coordinates training for union members.

Kelly first began coming to the theatre when he was young, tagging along with his dad, Robert Kelly. Today, at the age of 94, Robert Kelly still helps out at the theatre, providing training to other stagehands. Earlier in the theatre’s history, Kelly said, it often was his dad, along with Laverne Lynch, who were working consistently at the theatre.

The Lynch and Kelly families are two familiar names associated with the Rialto. Like his dad, Laverne Lynch

“Such a beautiful theater! My husband and I go to as many shows as we can, we are seeing George Thorogood in March. One

of

my best memories was a tour of the whole building when we were able to go into the dressing rooms and the back stage areas.”
-Joan Kostka

worked on the stage, while Robert Kelly handled the lighting, according to Kelly. Now, in addition to the many years their dads have given to the theatre, both sons, Tim Kelly and Lorin Lynch, have given decades of service to the theatre. Last summer, Laverne’s son, Lorin Lynch, was honored for his five decades of service to the theater, as one of 10 Lynch family members who have spent time working at the theatre.

For stagehands, it is the memories of the shows, such as the Kiwanis Club variety shows, which began during the Depression and ran until 2000 to give residents a chance to showcase their talent, according to Kelly. Kelly also remembers an ice show coming to the theatre. “We had to build an ice rink on stage,” he added, “My dad had to build a cover to go over the organ.”

When honored for his service, Lynch told the crowd that seeing the reaction of kids coming to the theater and watching the shows over the years has been among his favorite memories, Lynch said, “This Theatre is magical.”

Joliet Junior College proudly honors the century long legacy of the Rialto Square Theatre — a landmark of artistry, history and community.

Thank you for inspiring generations and enriching lives for 100 remarkable years.

Cheers to 100 Years! CONGRATULATIONS ON 100 YEARS

The Rialto Square Theatre Joliet, Illinois

VenuWorks is proud to congratulate the Rialto Square Theatre on a century of unforgettable performances and community impact. We are honored to be part of your next act.

Turk Furniture congratulates the Rialto Square Theatre on a century of luxury, history, and community. From its breathtaking design to social gatherings in its theatre, the Rialto remains a Joliet treasure!

“My favorite memory of the Rialto was my son’s wedding on 12/22/2000, Every decoration was so beautiful and seeing my Daughter-in-law come down the staircase, to the performance of “Someday My prince Will Come: was something I will always remember.”

“I can remember my mom taking me to see Dumbo when I was a kid, about 50 years ago, and we sat in the balcony. I always thought it was such a beautiful place! Now, it’s my favorite place for concerts.”

Congratulations to the Rialto Square Theatre on 100 Years!

Thank you Patrons, Proprietors of business and Industry for your generous support!

Thank you People of the City of Joliet, Joliet Township, the County of Will, the State of Illinois and the United States of America for grant monies earmarked for capital improvements and operations!

Thank you Board Members for your unselfish, collective roles in governance and oversight on the unit of local government known as the Will County Metropolitan & Auditorium Authority Board!

Thank you to the Board of Directors serving on the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation!

Thank you to the many dedicated employees for their years of labor and service!

Thank you to IATSE Local 124; IUOE Local 399; Joliet Area Theatre Organ Society; Rialto Square Theatre Volunteers!

In Memoriam George, Louis, Maurice, Jules, Harry & Claude Rubens; Dorothy L. Mavrich; Dorothy B & Robert A Crombie; Christo M. Dragatsis; John J. Racich; Lynne Lichtenauer

In grateful appreciation I lend my applause and standing ovation in honor of this Centennial Year 2026 celebrating the “Jewel of Joliet” as it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places - Rubens Rialto Square Theatre! I trust future generations will do the same!

Celebrating Centennials of RST, Joliet YMCA, US Route 66 and the Semiquincentennial of these United States!

Dale T. Evans

Dale Evans worked and volunteered at the Rialto for over five decades and is a Rialto historian.

The Rialto Square Theatre

Is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a century since its opening on May 24, 1926. A commemorative book, “Rialto Square Theatre: Celebrating 100 Years of Curtain Calls and Community” by Jim Ridings, is available to mark this milestone, featuring historical photos and stories.

You may purchase the book at The Rialto Square Theatre

15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet 815-726-7171

Rialto 100th Centennial Sponsors

Centennial

Jeanette D’Arcy

Terry & Sue D’Arcy

Jewel of Joliet

Barr Family

D Construction

Imperial Construction

Rotunda

Old National Bank

Elevate Private Wealth Management

Moore Glass

Prime Health Care

University of St. Francis

Patron (Individual)

Bill & Margaret Benoit

Easton Family LLC

Patrick & Susan Frangella

Kurt & Cheri Johnson

Dollinger Family

Randich Family

Esplanade

Jay Bergman/First Secure Community Bank

Bank

Jane Condon

Arkas Restaurant Group Busey

Harrah’s Casino

Heritage Corridor Destinations

JJC/JJC Foundation

Midland States Bank

Ava & Carmon Paris

Turk Furniture

Tim & Mary Lou Shanahan

Spesia – Taylor Law

VenuWorks

Patron (Business)

Jeff & Lisa Pierson

Jeff & Cindi Tyler

Gary & Mary Kay White

Cathedral Area Preservation Association

Contractors Association of Will and Grundy Counties

J.L. Adler Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc.

Gala Table Sponsor

Bulley & Andrews LLC

Citgo Refinery

City of Joliet

Filotto Family

Night Lite

I.A.T.S.E. Joliet Stagehands Local 124

Rialto Square Theatre Foundation

Rialto Square Theatre Volunteers

Promenade

Will County Metropolitan Exposition and Auditorium Authority

Castle Law

Commerce Bank

County of Will

Hometown Bank

Joliet Park District

Lewis University

Chicagoland Operators Joint Labor Managment PAC

PT Ferro Construction

Silver Cross Hospital

Still shining bright after 100 years

Celebrating 100 Years

The Spectator wrote on January 19, 1934: "The electric lamps in the border of the Rialto theatre's street sign total 1,507, and that laid end to end would easily be double the height of any Joliet building. Count them the next time you're downtown."

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