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Suburban Culture At Its Best

There’s no lack of the arts in Joliet. Visual art, dramatic performances, musical concerts; the list goes on. Many unique venues make up the art scene. The area’s landscape is decorated with historic theaters, outdoor bandshells and impressive galleries. Here is a glimpse of just a few of the many experiences available in Joliet.

The Rialto Square Theatre

The Rialto Square Theatre is steeped in history, opening in May 24, 1926. The six Rubens brothers were responsible for making the vision into a reality along with the help of architects, a construction company and gifted artists. The outside of this amazing place is a sight to see, but the exquisite decor inside is up to royal standards, featuring Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences.

What was once a silent movie theatre and a venue for live Vaudeville performances, the Rialto has made a few changes since it opened its doors more than 80 years ago. In late 1981, the Rialto made the transition into a performing arts center to coincide with times. The change was a result of “the development of shopping malls and multiplex movie theatres,” said Randall Green, general manager.

To help facilitate the evolution into a performing arts venue, a renovation project began. Dorothy Mavrich, president of the Rialto Square Arts Association, now the Cultural Arts Council of the Joliet Area, wanted to see the glory of the Rialto restored. As in the initial construction, many community members worked together to ensure that the Rialto would retain its original grandeur.

The Rialto Square Theatre has seen many great performers grace the stage; “from the Vaudeville days, the Marx Brothers, Burns & Allen, later on Red Skelton, Liberace, Victor Borge, Barbara Mandrell and Bob Hope. Most recently, Tony Bennett, Bill Cosby, BB King, The Moody Blues, Chicago, REO Speedwagon, Doobie Brothers, Taylor Swift, Vince Gill and many, many more,” said Green.

Walking into the Rialto Square Theatre is like walking back in time. This staple in the Joliet community has played an important role in its history and will continue to wow visitors for years to come. “People can always expect top headliner attractions, artists who are relevant today because they are still writing and performing new songs or program content. Our Broadway at the Rialto will bring in top-quality musical theatre attractions annually. But we always like to add some surprises throughout the year to add to the excitement,” noted Green.

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park

Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park is a gem in Joliet. Who thought a park could be filled with so many avenues of art? Musical concerts and dramatic productions are just the beginning of what this part of nature offers.

This venture began in the 1970s in an effort to celebrate the United States’ 200th birthday. The Bicentennial Committee was created to fashion a plan to commemorate this milestone, and Mrs. William C. Limacher was named chairman. A piece of land measuring five and one-third acres was to be the location for the park. This piece of land served as one of the community's first streets.

The committee consulted many local organizations, businesses and schools to plan the creation of the outdoor bandshell and indoor theatre. Before construction began, Concerts in the Rough were held from 1973 until the completion of the bandshell in 1976 when the name of these Thursday evening concerts was changed to Concerts on the Hill.

The park was growing and growing, and in the 1980s, two more pieces of land were purchased to continue with the development. In 1987, historic sites were commemorated with the creation of a historical walk noting events, homes and businesses.

A few years later, in 1993, a scenic riverwalk was created, and only a couple of years after that a veterans memorial and mosaic were installed. The year 1996 brought the addition of historical murals.

In 2000, the park was renamed Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park in honor of Limacher’s endless dedication. Not only has Limacher played a huge role in the creation of this park, but countless others continue to bring their talents every day. “The park was built for the people by the people,” said Limacher.

Members of Joliet and surrounding communities make many events at the park possible. The Joliet Drama Guild plays a major role in the theatrical performances. Local school children and community organizations provide further entertainment in the way of concerts, variety shows and other productions. The American Legion band and the Joliet Montessori School sparkle with their musical talents.

The Rialto Arts District is a new and vibrant addition to the Joliet community. Located in street-level locations in the Rialto Square building, four galleries comprise the district. This project came out of the first Joliet Fine Arts Festival of the Masters in partnership with Dr. Rita Rogan and over 60 volunteer artists.

Gallery at 104 features an ever-changing array of artists. Indigo Gallery features the Plein Air Painters of Chicago - SouthWest who helped found the district. However, the Indigo gallery is now the home of the Joliet Downtown Arts Alliance. Fine Arts Photography Group can be found at Gallery 7. Artists from the Art Institute of Chicago brighten the perspective of Zoe Gallery.

The art district will continue to grow with the renovation of the fifth floor of the Rialto Square building adding workspaces, studios and more, to be used as a place where the artists can work together and improve their skills.

“The Rialto Arts District is a great addition to downtown Joliet. Besides the galleries, the district will provide workspace for numerous artists. Thus, the artists not only have a place to create their works but also a place to display them. It is a unique opportunity to be able to display next to a performing arts center like the Rialto,” said Tom Mahalik, VP-City Center Marketing.

With all of the opportunities to experience the arts in Joliet, why go anywhere else? Big city artists have found a home here and top-notch performances bring the best to the suburbs. “Experiencing live music, theatre or comedy entertainment is unmatched for appealing to all the senses. “Additionally, the excitement of the audience adds to the experience,” mused Green.