Westfield Mayor 'Devastated' By Rialto Theater Closing (UPDATED)

WESTFIELD, NJ - Patrons visiting the Rialto Theater in Westfield Friday were greeted with a marquee out front that was devoid of showtimes and movie titles, but instead bore the message that the theater was closed.

"Like all of you, I am devastated to learn about the sudden closing of the Rialto Theater, which has been a treasure of our downtown for many decades," Mayor Shelley Brindle said.

Brindle said that the town had been in ongoing conversations with the management about various projects and initiatives and that included a meeting that was scheduled to take place Friday.

"It was as much of a surprise to us as it was to the employees who were notified late yesterday," Brindle said.

In the wake of the closing, Brindle asked that residents remain patient while the facts were discerned.

"I know that an event like this invites speculation and rumors, and I want everyone to know that we are diligently working to obtain more information about the decision and any related transactions or plans that may be in the works for the property," Brindle said. "As soon as have additional confirmed facts, we will share them with the community."

Councilman Mark LoGrippo also shared his shock on Facebook.

" I have no specific details regarding what happened," LoGrippo wrote. "Hopefully something can be done to save the theatre. One of the reasons Maria and I chose to live in Westfield was because of the beautiful vibrant downtown."

As word of the closing spread on social media, residents have already created a Facebook campaign 'Save the Rialto.'

The East Broad Street business opened initially in 1922 and changed ownership and names several times over the decades according to Cinema Treasures. The theater opened with Richard Barthelmess in “Sonny” and Buster Keaton in “Cops.” Around 1966 it was taken over by United Artists. Two more screens added on May 26, 1978 and three screens were added in 1997 after it was purchased from United Artists. Later taken over by Digiplex, followed by Carmike Cinemas, in March 2017 it was taken over by NewVision Theatres and renamed Rialto Theatre once again, the site noted.

According to the marquee out front, those who need a refund from the theater are being told to call 866-640-9040.

Brindle also said that she isn't going to let the theater go without a fight.

"Please know that I am fully committed to doing whatever is possible to retain this storied landmark that means so much to Westfield," she said.

Councilwoman Dawn Mackey also took to social media to share she was "heartbroken" over the theater closing but shares Brindle's commitment to do everything she can to save the treasured landmark.

"As many of you know I have been working to bring community events to the Rialto and believe there is an important place in our town for this iconic theater," she said.

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