Have seen a couple of shows here. Highly recommend getting the areas with seating upstairs if you're over 40. For Ani Defranco there was standing area near the stage and although fun to be in the mix. I'm too old for that now. Happy to pay 10-20$ more for cushioned seats. Saw a comedy show and the folding chairs in the (usually) standing area were packed together and uncomfortable. All in all a great theater. Parking across the street. Many good restaurants nearby. read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

There's a wide variety of concerts and shows to choose from, so there's always something exciting going on. The staff are helpful, and the atmosphere is lively. The only downsides are that tickets can be pricey and the seats aren't the most comfortable--but the experience is still worth it for the great performances! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Patten Oswald - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

This was an incredible venue -- I've only heard great things! The space was open and it seems like any view is a great view. If given the option, try to grab aisle seats! I believe they only have quick snacks like popcorn and nachos, and we didn't get any drinks so I can't speak to prices. Water bottle was $3 which isn't bad comparatively. The show was truly incredible, and I'd definitely visit Rialto again AND go see Postmodern Jukebox again!! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Postmodern jukebox - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The first visit was to see Madeleine Peyroux, an American singer-songwriter. The show was excellent and the theatre provided a very good experience. While the seating was less comfortable than desired, the staff, acoustics, and sound system were very good. Looking forward to the next visit. read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Seating is so small and tight! Also, very hot inside! They really need to make improvements so people can enjoy concerts

We didn't get any food or snacks but popcorn smelled great! Ticket handlers and security folks were all nice. The theatre has been around a long time, the bathrooms were clean and seemed updated but the main theatre doesn't look much different than it did way back. The chairs are pretty uncomfortable but maybe that's just lends to the experience. The sound was great! We saw Pure Prairie League and it was a good show. Love having this venue in Tucson. read more

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I had not been to the Rialto in about 15 years and forgot how much I love it. The show I attended had assigned seats in the whole venue which was nice. There isn't a bad seat in the house. The sound and lighting were better than most large concert venues I've been to. The staff I encountered were all so nice. The drinks were reasonably priced and they sell popcorn to snack on. Make sure to look up the clear bag policy on their website before heading there. I will be back sooner rather than later. read more

This is a great venue in downtown, i went with my best friend to see the Descendants & Frank Turner The bar staff were great and quick at making your drink, i do wish they had real food (they only have popcorn). The bathroom lines were very long between sets. Luckily we were smart and made our escape before the rush hit. We'd totally come here again. read more

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I absolutely love the Rialto as a local concert venue. I've seen so many different types of shows here, comedy, punk rock, seated shows, instrumental type, dj shows, rappers, legendary performers and new acts. It's a great size space, usually standing room only but some times seated shows. And there's always balcony tickets which are seated. I never have a problem with security or lines getting in. They remodeled the bathrooms and that was a major upgrade. Several bar options, also some snacks / popcorn available. Also love that you can pop out to the R-bar as well for a drink. Love the murals on the out side depicting up coming shows. Easy parking across the street(prices vary) , and it's easy to buy tickets on line or in the box office. Definitely a staple venue of downtown Tucson and much beloved! read more

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This is only my second visit here. Generally if there is a decent show, I imagine the venue will benefit automatically with reviews. For me, this was a show I really wanted to see and a memory replacer for a show I saw years and years ago. Being late to my fiest show made for poor viewing options even with the incline in the floor. Last time, I found the perfect curve in the floor. This time? I made sure to leave with ample time to get a good spot. They were punctual with doors opening at the indicated time. What looked to be a long line upon arrival when smooth and quick on being let in. Both "checker-inners" were personable... No, they were friendly and it keep my vibe up bc of no shenanigans... Merch booth was set up beforehand and that also had a line, but they have managed to make it work to where you may get through to enter the stage area or the line for merch. Appreciated. I elected to get merch after the show and take my risk on them being low. I got a spot front and center and I wasn't budging from that spot until all was said and done. If I did what I "normally do" I'd have grabbed water preshow and I did not. Shame on me. Now, look, I don't know if this is a usual occurrence but by the time I was parched and knew I needed water a security man behind the grate/gate(?) came by with water. He was a water angel answering my prayer to the heaven above, for real. Because I wasn't moving and would have elected death over losing my place (exaggerating, but you get me). The bathrooms were right in front and I was able to visit going in and going out with ease. The trash bins were super full of papertowels at the end but... understably so, as they would be closing up shop soon. Point? If given the right artist, I would happily visit again and again. read more

The Rialto Theatre - Stage front and mostly center - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

When one of my favorite bands, From Ashes to New, announced a Tucson show without a show in the Phoenix area I knew a road trip was in order. The Rialto Theatre is about a two hour drive from my house, but was easy to navigate to Tucson from the valley. I took an Uber to the venue from my hotel, and was very easy to navigate to the entrance of the line forming for both VIP and general admission. During the first act, unfortunately a male in the mosh pit full on shoved me causing me to tumble. I quickly got to my feet, and generally seemed unharmed until about 4-5 minutes later a small bump began to form on my forehead and bruising on my knees/elbow. The staff was really amazing to get my ice and a place to sit while i waited for the medic to assess the damage since I did feel dizzy and a little disoriented (never had a concussion so I was not sure what to expect if it was). They even offered a seat in the ADA section as I truly didn't want to leave after both making the drive and spending the money on VIP to meet/greet with the band. Throughout the remainder of the night, both the security and even who appeared to be the manager periodically asked how I was doing. Without hesitation, I would say this has been the friendliness venue I've ever seen a show at. I'll definitely make the road trip again, and hope they see this review to share as a THANK YOU to the staff. I truly appreciate your assistance to allow me to ice my head to tough out the remainder of the show. Y'all rock! read more

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I love seeing shows at The Rialto- intimate and spectacular. The last visit was a celebration of life. I appreciated venue being so much of the community and showcasing such. Thank you! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Orville Peck & band! - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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The 2/20/26 rave at the Rialto, along with the other rave concerts, seemed boring and not a lot of hype (though some were better than others). This is outside the establishments control. However, at the rave on 2/26, the woman bartending decided to cut me off after my 3rd drink and claimed it was "AZ law", despite the fact I showed NO signs of intoxication. I had to ask at least 3 other staff, and they were clueless to why I was cut off. I've gone here many times and ordered more than 3 drinks previously, and nothing like that has ever happened to me before. When I asked the bartender for more details about the AZ law, she was very evasive, as if she was completely uneducated on the law, and turned me away with a BS fake smile on her face. I call that incompetence and lousy complaint handling. That is COMPLETELY UNACEPTABLE and beyond TERRIBLE customer service! Unfortunately management will never read this review or take it seriously, but to all the party goers in Tucson, you're better off spending your money elsewhere! Plus, drinks are a rip off too. Im never going back, the Rialto has lost me as a customer, and they will continue to lose more, if they continue to be stupid like that! And of course the nightlife in AZ is pretty lame in general compared to everywhere else. Btw I've read the previous bad reviews, and it seems like they've had it worse than I have, and I feel bad for all of them. read more

Went to see Dave Attell last night at The Rialto. The performance and sound were great. The only downside was the chairs were so small and crammed together that my elbows were rubbing with my neighbors and I couldn't clap my hands without bumping into them, so I didn't. I think the performers were denied their proper recognition because many in the audience could not really clap. read more

I have been wanting to attend a concert at the historic Rialto Theatre for awhile and I finally had the opportunity when my family and I watched Black Jacket Symphony perform Sir Elton John's Madman Across the Water Album in its entirety. It was an amazing performance and then they played all the hits after the break. The Rialto is a great place to see a show. I am also looking forward to having a drink at their bar during a future event. I highly recommend coming here for a show. I appreciate the variety of events they have throughout the year. We will be back. read more

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We attended the Rialto for the Floyd Nation concert. Overall the night was just amazing. The acoustics are amazing and the concert was so enjoyable. The staff at the Rialto are all great people. They have a bar and snack bar with popcorn and then there is the R-Bar right next door with access from the Rialto. Drink prices are pretty typical of this type of venue. The only real complaint I have was the seating. A combination of what felt like smaller folding type chairs and the slope of the floor just did not make for comfortable seats. Pretty bad when hard plastic seating at any of the sports venues is more comfortable. read more

Great spot to see a show. Sound was awesome and very comfortable seating. Downtown next to the hotel congress, neat location. read more

Great venue. Good seats good line of sight. Popcorn and drinks you can take your seat. Really great! read more

a WOMAN security guard took me out of the bathroom, straight out of the stall and told me i needed to go home and escorted me out and told me "you can call your friends" and left me alone outside by myself because she thought i was drunk and throwing up when i clearly wasn't. so scary read more

The first time to the Rialto Theater (not a local) saw that the Psychedelic Furs were playing and had to go. I'm glad I did. Not only was it a great performance, but the Rialto experience was a good experience. Street parked a couple blocks away (free), arrived about 30 mins after doors opened, security was easy & noninvasive. Staff was professional and courteous. Lobby is adorned with the history of the theater, which is on display throughout the theater. I love it. Seeing music acts that have filled the hall with sound over the years kept me entertained until the opening act. Restrooms are located in the lobby, have definitely been updated, but still retain the vibe of past times. I used throughout the evening, and except for intermission, were not crowded. Stayed clean, which is hard during a concert full of alcohol drinkers. The only issue was washing hands after using them as the line ran in front of the sinks. Several bars throughout the venue, so getting drinks quickly was not a problem, even had an outdoor area. Super friendly Bar Staff (only visited the one inside the Hall). A new friend that I met while waiting for the show to begin (the headliner) in the standing room did a beer run in between songs. He was back with beers right when the next song began. That is awesome. Enjoy the show and not from a drink line. General Admission area was a mix of standing room (front of stage) and open seating towards the back, which was greatly appreciated by this old rocker and my wife. She is not into standing for a whole show. Great sound system. We could see & hear the artists all night. The director of the theater introduced the opener and gave a little history and what it does as a non-profit, which was informative and enjoyed. We grabbed a t-shirt from the nice gift shop on the way out after the show. The young lady working was friendly & let me reminisce for a minute what it meant to see "the Furs" after 40 years. We will definitely be back for future shows, Tucson embrace what you have & support what they do. Older venue but well maintained and a great place to enjoy a Show. read more

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The Rialto Theatre is a Tucson staple that never seems to disappoint. I have attended many events here over my years in Tucson. From Bob Marley & the Wailers to a GimmeGimme disco dance night, I have enjoyed them all! Great vibe, great people, and so much fun! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I'd give this venue 5 stars except for their seating. Folding chairs on a slanted floor don't make for comfortable seating for a 90- to 120-minute show. Having said that, though, they get some of the greatest, most entertaining shows in Tucson! We go there for the recurring Black Jacket Symphony shows; we've been for the Bee Gee's tribute show; recently went to the "Al"s: Al Di Meola, Al Stewart, and Alan Parsons Project. Drink prices are reasonable; no food but popcorn. The venue is a great size for intimate shows (about 1,200 seats), and the sound quality is good. read more

I have no issue with the Rialto. It's an old Tucson downtown theater with folding chairs. I feel called to get the word out that very old performers (81-years-old) should probably not be hired. The performance I saw March 2026 was with a performer well into dementia. She couldn't remember half the lyrics, doesn't remember to put the mic to her mouth, can't keep her place on the monitor, sings backup with her background singers sporadically while the background singers rotate singing lead for her. Her backup singers and band carried her through the very short show. This woman should be allowed to retire with dignity, because she's one of the greatest of all time, and she's given us enough. Her family, Ticketmaster (messed up monopoly), her agent and promoters need to be flogged for parading a person who's so clearly not up to the task in front of people for the sake of money. I will love this performer always, and it was heartbreaking to see her anguish and emotion on stage. She knows she's not delivering for her fans. read more

This is a real local treasure. The building certainly has a lot on of character, which is a great place to have concerts. I enjoyed a recent visit for a heavy metal concert. The sound was amazing for such a small venue. The theatre appears to have accommodations for various types of entertainment. The staff were friendly and polite. Security appeared well organized and ready to handle any situation. I did not notice any type of food service but there were several bars on different levels. I'm looking forward to my next visit. read more

My favorite venue for concerts in Tucson! They have a clean vintage look and the sound quality is always amazing. They have multiple bars to allow quick service and I never complain about the drinks. For a venue they have better priced drinks. The lighting is always perfect here aswell. Definitely go to a concert atleast once at the rialto! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Outside bar at Rialto - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

What a great venue. I looked at the checkered history of the theatre and Tucson should be proud they saved such a community gem. We came for the Janis Ian concert. I've heard there are many events where they have no seating, but this event did. You should check to make sure they have seating or not for your event. We had folding chairs, not the most comfortable but ok. Acoustics for our show were amazing. The area around the theatre is very cool. Check it out! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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This was my second time attending a concert at the Rialto. Security getting in was quick and the staff was very friendly. We had tickets in the balcony so made our way up there. The seats are not the most comfortable and could use some updating. We did not get any drinks while there so can not comment on the bar service. The view from the balcony was great. The only problem I had was the stairs and railing to the upper seats were not very easy to navigate. I stumble as did a few others I saw. Some dim lighting would be helpful for when the house lights are off. read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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This is such a unique venue. We're from Washington and lived in Portland for 30 years. Huge Modest Mouse fans. Couldn't think of a better venue to see them. Thank you Tucson. One funny thing. A person was flying an Arizona flag and Issac thought it was Tibet. The crowd quickly corrected him and Tucson was proud. read more

Went to see Iris Dement at the Rialto. Iris put on a great show; she sings, she writes music, plays the guitar and does a wonderful piano. Her two accompanists were great too. But the seats!!!!!! I haven't been that cramped since I flew Japanese Airlines. We were shoved together like sardines, I could never stretch my legs out and kept trying to get comfortable, bumping into the lady next to me. (She loved that.) Thankfully, the seat next to me was empty, so I had a place to put down my purse. Wow! Could not really enjoy the show. Won't be going back. read more

Beautiful, Amazing venue but they need to upgrade their cooling system!!! It was crazy humid in the place. Other then that it had a... Friendly staff, great place to enjoy a concert. read more

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Old and too crowded. Sometimes there are too many standing tickets blocking the view of those sitting audiences read more

Came to the Rialto theater for the Bored Teachers Ckmedy Tour and this venue is super cute. Loved the whole boutique style and the very old school feel. Typically we go to larger venues but we never say no to a trip to Tucson! We had such a great time and the staff of the theater were pleasant and the getting in and out was seamless. Would definitely attend this location more in the future. read more

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We recently went to the Rialto for a Lucinda Williams concert. It was our first time in the theatre. The experience was very positive. Besides the performer being outstanding, we found the venue to our liking. When we came in a staff member was very helpful in directing us to our seats. Concessions were easy. No long lines. We'll definitely be back when the right act comes to town! read more

Always a great time at the Rialto! Security is responsive, never have issues going in, when my show was canceled they rescheduled and I haven't really had a bad experience here. I like the floor concept and there's a balcony if you rather be seated but it is an affordable venue to see great concerts:). read more

Always a great show at the Rialto. Saw Black Violin March 2023 and it was such a fun show. Don't miss it next time! read more

The Rialto Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

This was a nite to be at the Rialto theatre. Only live shows here now in a vintage Theatre. The Fab Four, a night to pretend you are seeing a young Beatles group. They were a good copy playing to a full house. From the beginning times up to Sargent Pepper. 2 hours of memorable Rock n Roll from Liverpool. Ok you pretend, but it works and you sing along, you know all the words. Late 60's. , oops , I was out of Country. Place called DaNang. Balcony Seats First Row. Nice read more

Attended the Alan Parson Project concert last night. Great show and venue. They probably need to update and add handrails in the theater to become ADA compliant. read more

The Rialto is place to be. Drinks are always good and it's always been a great show since I've been coming here for over 44 years. It it it's the ppppppppllllaaaaaaacccccccceeeee to to to to to bee bee bee bee bee. Come try it out for yourself. It's on congress in downtown Tucson. You'll find it. It's been here forever. Try it out this Saturday nice. Thanks read more

The Rialto Theatre - Rocking mommas at the Rialto - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

This Is my favorite place to see shows in Tucson but the DJ opening for Steel Pulse last night was appalling. Reggae is about love. Quite from the DJ opening last night "all these old racist people are about to die. Our generation is taking over." What the h*** is that Rialto management? Do better! read more

The Rialto Theatre - a band performing on stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I only recently learned it's a not-for-profit establishment. So I understand funds are tight. What I don't get is the seating there. Seating is linked together folding chairs. If you sit next to anyone other than tiny size, your hips touch a total stranger. Creepy. One guy was drunk. And tripped over and end chair in front of me, which caused about 7 empty chairs to fall over. Glad I could hop out of the way. The entrance lighting leaves less to be desired. Bright white lights aren't needed in the lobby. Maybe they are work lights, the place is around 100 years old. There are two bars on the first floor, but they're near impossible to get to if you are seated mid row. The rows are so tight they're literally impassable even if someone stands up to let you out. I do not recommend this venue for a seated show if you have mobility issues. That said, there are good shows to be seen there and the price is reasonable. We are fortunate to have this sardine can of a theater in Tucson. read more