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Welcome

"Raise the Rialto" is an energetic awareness campaign designed to increase public knowledge about renovations needed to reopen it doors, restoring the theater to its original purpose as a film, music and art exhibition venue.
Constructed in 1925, this historic brick theater opened its doors in Bozeman’s downtown district nearly 100 years ago. During most of the 20th century, this iconic building served as a popular venue, ultimately defining its niche as a prominent showcase for Montana arts and culture and independent film. The theater was last operated by Carmike Cinemas, officially closing its doors in 2005. It was later sold to a development group who intended to turn the theater into condominiums, but the economic downturn prevented the redesign from becoming reality.  After the condominium project failed, the theater sat empty and neglected for more than five years. During this time, it was the only abandoned building in Bozeman's beautiful downtown.

Both long-time residents and newcomers have expressed a desire to have the theater remain a theater. However, many Bozemanites were saddened to learn the Rialto had been gutted and damaged in the process of attempting to redefine its purpose. For many, the resulting  damage disturbed their happy memories of a theater they thought was gone for good. Many fondly remember the Rialto as a special place to gather and enjoy film as a family, with friends, or on a date. Some even recall having their first kiss while in the audience at The Rialto.

In November 2010, organizers purchased The Rialto with the intention of opening it up as a soundstage with studio audience recording capabilities. In doing so, the company intends to restore the theater to its original purpose as a community gathering place for arts and culture. It will complete its plan in two phases.  Starting in August 2012, the owners will complete minor repairs, putting up a fresh coat of new paint and laying new carpet with the plan to reopen the Rialto's doors in December 2012. Next, while maintaining the historical look and feel of the turn-of-the century theater on the outside, organizers  will  restore the theater to its original Art Deco style design and fully modernize its capabilities on the inside in order to digitally broadcast music and other artistic content world-wide.

With its historic integrity restored, Gallatin Valley residents will once again have their very own local theater to enjoy independent film, musical entertainment, artist exhibitions, local, national and regional book signings, as well as educational speaker series in conjunction with local educational institutions and associated community organizations.
Downtown Bozeman
Rialto Theater, circa 1940