Cross-section view of a multi-story community arts center with art galleries, performance spaces, and interactive areas, featuring people engaging in various activities.

OUR PLANS & PROGRESS

The Rialto Theater went dark in August 2019. Months later, the coronavirus pandemic shut down the world. In 2021, communities began to imagine reopening, and plans were set in motion to bring new life to the Rialto. With the foundation set, we’re now gearing up to take the final steps in transforming the Rialto into the Rialto Center for Creativity.

  • PHASE 1: SOLIDIFYING A VISION (2021 - 2023)

    After a group of community members came together with a vision to save the Rialto, we began defining a vision and creating the foundation for the work ahead.

    • Purchased the Rialto building
    • Worked with expert advisors to develop the organization’s vision and explore fundraising strategies
    • Gathered feedback from business and community leaders
    • Outlined a long-term vision to guide the best approach to redevelopment

  • PHASE 2: CREATING PLANS AND PARTNERSHIPS (2023 - 2025)

    With a new, agreed-upon foundation, we began to work on transforming this vision into a reality.

    • Hired an architect to design a revitalized building
    • Engaged a firm to guide our fundraising campaign
    • Expanded the Board of Trustees to strengthen and diversify leadership and expertise
    • Received multiple grants, pursued others, and await a decision on a key NJ state grant

  • PHASE 3: CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY INTRODUCTION (2025-2026)

    Our approval for the NJEDA CAFE tax credit award marks a huge step in reaching our fundraising goal and transforming the vision of the Rialto into a reality. Now, we’re continuing to make progress on development and are introducing the Rialto to the community it’ll serve. Currently, we’re:

    • Sharing the vision and plans for the Rialto with the community
    • Producing a Spotlight Series to build awareness and excitement
    • Raising funds for our Rialto Reimagined campaign to close the final $9M of project funding
    • Finalizing architectural plans
    • Hiring key operational staff and individuals to support fundraising, donor relations, and project management

  • PHASE 4: OPENING (2028)

    The last stages of the Rialto transformation include:

    • Completing construction
    • Launching the opening season of performances and programs
    • Supporting operations through ticket sales, venue rentals, and continued donor support