Rialto Theatre

The Rialto Theatre is a rare beauty: unassuming on the outside, majestic on the inside. Built in 1923-1924 and designed by Montréal architect Raoul Gariépy, the striking Beaux-Arts façade was inspired by the Palais Garnier, Paris Opera. The neo-baroque interior features a steep-pitch balcony, theatre boxes, and a lavish décor by Emmanuel Briffa, designer of over sixty Canadian movie houses. A key element of Montréal’s architectural and cultural heritage, the Rialto Theatre has developed from a neighbourhood movie theatre into a vibrant centre for the performing arts with a particular focus on promoting emerging local artists. Activities include concerts, theatre, cinema, dance performances, exhibitions and private events.