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Historical Tucson venue catering to UA students

Okay, admit it. Tucson has a rather despicable reputation when it comes to entertainment, and as the school year progresses, hundreds of students will search for entertainment in any way, shape or form.

A historical Tucson theater, within walking distance of the University of Arizona, will cater to those needs.

The Rialto Theatre, located at 318 E. Congress St., kicks off the school year with one of its largest concert promotion line ups ever. Both local, regional and national performers have been booked to meet every style of entertainment genre that a typical college student may desire.

"I feel that the Rialto has become the place to go for students at the U of A," manager Jeb Schoonover said.

Constructed in 1919, the Rialto Theatre possesses a long and storied history. For years, the theater was the most elegant and luxurious playhouse west of the Mississippi.

The stage itself is quite historical as well, and it was the largest in the West for decades.

Not only did it support famous acts such as Ginger Rogers and The Sistine Choir, but it was also the first venue in Tucson to present a talking picture show.

The Rialto, which reopened in 1995, houses a multitude of acts now. Kicking off the season last Tuesday night was G. Love and Special Sauce. The crowd, mainly UA students, witnessed a wild and fun show.

Henry Rollins performed last night. The Violent Femmes come on Sept. 17, Leftover Salmon on Sept. 20 and Pavement on Oct. 5.

Each of these bands are favorites in the college scene.

The recent shows are also quelling many student complaints that all the good stuff only happens in Phoenix.

The Rialto is showcasing the Bindlestiff Family Circus on Sept. 16. This show includes various stage acts such as sword-eaters and trapeze artists. However, the show is restricted to people 18 years and over for one important reason.

"It includes an infamous plate-spinning act, and that's all I'm going to tell you," Schoonover quipped.

The Rialto will participate in future Tucson events including the Fall Crawl on Oct. 2 and a Halloween festival on Oct. 31. Both festivals will involve both local and regional bands and will be held in conjunction with other venues.