Rialto ReOpening Cover B3-25-09.qxd

THEATRE
Art from original Rialto Playbill, 1935
Ensure the Success of our Downtown Theatre!
Help keep The Rialto your choice in downtown movie entertainment.
• Don’t forget to return your 3D glasses.
• Report any inappropriate behavior.
• Respect your fellow moviegoer.
• Keep our Rialto in great condition.
• Report any acts of vandalism to management or the police.
Let's be ready for our 100th anniversary in September 2022!
(It's only a mere 13 years away).
Thank you!
1940’s
Rialto Toda
y
Westfield’s Crown Jewel
Grand Re-opening
March 27, 2009
Cover art: The Rialto, Westfield’s Finest Photoplay Theatre “Program Revue”, 1923
Historic photos and documents courtesy of Westfield Historical Society.
Program designed and produced by Downtown Westfield Corporation.
250 E. Broad Street • Westfield, NJ 07090 • 908.232.1288
History of Our Rialto
The Rialto movie house
opened on September 6, 1922 with
1,000 people paying 20 cents for a
matinee or 30 cents in the evenings
and on holidays. The first major
film shown at the Rialto was
Ben Hur in 1927, which was the
exclusive area showing of the epic
film. Shortly after, the theatre
closed briefly to convert to "talkies"
1996- ‘Save
from silent movies.
the Rialto’
Campaign
On May 22, 1931 a fire broke
out, closing the theatre until the end
of October. The blaze was due to faulty wiring in the organ and caused
$100,000 worth of damage. Upon its reopening, it was advertised as an
“ultramodern amusement center” and “100 percent fireproof”.
The 1940s brought the war movies and war bonds to the theatre.
In the 1950s, the theatre sponsored a Davy Crockett costume contest.
Air conditioning was also installed so patrons could be comfortable at
the shows.
In 1967, the theatre was renovated, with new seats, screen and
projection equipment, and a remodeled lobby. The theatre became part
of the United Artist chain in 1972 and six years later converted to a
triplex, reflecting the change in the industry. The entrance, marquee
and the candy counter were also changed.
Fortunately, the Rialto has had very few managers and has been
an integral part of the Westfield scene since its opening. A celebration
was held in 1992 to mark its 70th anniversary.
In 1996, a ‘Save the Rialto’ campaign occurred. Led by a group
of approximately 250 volunteers and Main Street Westfield (the former
name of Downtown Westfield Corporation), a successful effort was undertaken to prevent the theatre from being converted to retail. Mr. Jesse
Sayegh, president of CJM Entertainment, saved the theatre by purchasing it from United Artists. At that time, renovations took place and
six movie theatres with1050 seats were introduced to the community.
The ‘Save the Rialto’ campaign became a model in working with
national retailers for The National Trust for Historic Preservation in
downtown revitalization training sessions.
NOW SHOWING — March 27
Monsters vs. Aliens PG
7, 7:30, 9, 9:35
Haunting in Connecticut PG13 7:30, 9:40
12 Rounds PG13 7:20, 9:45
Race to Witch Mountain PG
Watchmen R 7:00, 10:00
7, 9:30
For a list of shows, time schedule, and all other information, please call the box office
at 908.232.1288 or check www.WestfieldToday.com.
The Renovation
Moviegoers will be treated to their
favorite movies, while relaxing in an all
new, brightly-designed environment and
restrooms.
From the moment you enter the
Rialto Theatre, you'll be treated to hours of
complete enjoyment. Stop by for delicious
popcorn and movie treats at newly-designed
concessions replete with granite tops. Two of
the six auditoriums will be presented with
Digital 3D. The Rialto has invested in highquality, non-disposable 3D glasses for your
viewing pleasure. All you need to do is return
them at the end of the movie.
Locate your favorite section for
viewing and take your seat in any one of the
all new high-back spacious reclining chairs
with extra leg room for added comfort. New
flooring, track lighting, and screens will
enhance your movie experience.
Coming Soon!
Other exciting changes are taking
place at The Rialto. Now customers can purchase their tickets in advance. What better
gift than tickets to see your favorite movie at
the Rialto Theatre?
1920s - Ori
ginal Faca
de
Art from original Rialto Playbill, 1935
Heartfelt Thanks for Your Gift to Our Community…
Jesse Sayegh, Doreen Sayegh, Paul Sayegh, Regina Struble,
and the Rialto crew for all their hard work
and significant investment in Downtown Westfield!