Rialto Unveils New “Twin Centennial” Mural

JOLIET, IL — The Rialto Square Theatre unveiled its “Twin Centennial” mural on Monday, February 27. This mural, painted by local artist Dante DiBartolo, was created to celebrate the centennial of both Rialto Square Theatre and Route 66 in Illinois.

The painting depicts the history of the theater from opening night to where it is today. DiBartolo worked with the Rialto Square Theatre Foundation to design this mural to ensure it included all the Theatre's historical moments as it anticipates its 100th birthday in 2026.

According to Rialto's marketing staff, Monday night's attendees included: Mayor Bob O’Dikirk, Joliet Councilwoman Sherri Reardon, State Representative Larry Walsh Jr., State Rep. Natalie Manley, and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant.

The mural was funded by DCEO/Enjoy Illinois FY22 Route 66 Grant program managed by Heritage Corridor Destinations. The mural will be installed on the theater exterior on March for all to see.