Home for the Holidays, the Rialto Square Theatre’s annual season of festive special events, kicks off this month in downtown Joliet. The spectacular lineup of family-friendly shows includes revival screenings of classic holiday films, special performances by well-known artists and all-ages shows by up-and-coming performers.
Join us as we take a look at the first half of the Rilato’s exciting holiday programming series.
A Motown Christmas
7 p.m. Nov. 17
Celebrate the holidays with The Motown All Stars – a supergroup composed of former members of legendary Motown acts The Contours (“Do You Love Me”), The Miracles (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Hollywood Walk of Fame Inductees) and Ali Woodson’s Temptations (“My Girl,” “I Can’t Get Next To You”), among others. A Motown Christmas is jam-packed with impeccable harmonies and dazzling choreography that helped make the Motown sound so popular. This is a great opportunity to sing, dance, and celebrate this classic sound. This special holiday themed show will feature songs from The Temptations, Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, The Miracles and a full repertoire of your favorite Christmas songs.
A Live Conversation with Chevy Chase following a screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
7:30 p.m. Nov. 20
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and laughs celebrating National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, featuring a special screening of the film followed by a live conversation and Q&A with Chevy Chase, and his wife Jayni. Chevy and Jayni will share their behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes about the making of this beloved movie and take part in an audience Q&A, giving you the chance to have your questions answered and hear firsthand from Chevy about his storied career including “SNL,” “Caddyshack,” “Community” and so much more. For those looking for an extra-special experience, a limited number of VIP tickets will be available which include a personal post-show photo opportunity with Chevy Chase himself.
Teddy Bear Tea
9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. Nov. 27
The Rialto Square Theatre holiday tradition continues. Young and old alike will enjoy this timeless Rialto tradition featuring a delicious brunch buffet and family fun – complete with a special appearance by St. Nick himself and a keepsake teddy bear. There are two sessions available, both morning and afternoon teas. A ticket is required for all in attendance, and space will fill up quickly.
Holiday Movie: “The Polar Express”
7 p.m. Nov. 28
Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump,” “Cast Away”) reunite for “The Polar Express” (Rated G), a modern classic holiday adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Projected on the Rialtio’s big screen, tickets for this revival screening are $5 each and will be available the day of at the box office. All seating will be general admission – first come, first serve. Cash and credit will be accepted for payment. Bar and concessions will be available to buy. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
“The Nutcracker”
2 p.m. Nov. 29
This holiday favorite fairytale ballet is perfect for the entire family. The magical production features lavish costumes; exquisite sets, including a Christmas tree that grows before your eyes; and sensational choreography. Journey through the land of whirling snowflakes, and visit the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. This is one holiday tradition you won’t want to miss. Staged by the legendary Von Heidecke’s Chicago Festival Ballet, this special seasonal performance is a must-see.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
7:30 p.m. Dec. 2
In A Magical Cirque Christmas, a cast of world-class acrobats, contortionists and aerialists will mesmerize, twist, flip, and push the boundaries of imagination in a rousing holiday themed show. The performers are supported by a captivating musical score that will tug at your heartstrings, elevate your spirit and have you tapping your foot and singing along to hit Christmas songs in the ultimate variety extravaganza. Returning acts for this fan-favorite show include Mark Clearview (MC and magician), Jonathan Rinny (rolla bolla and unicycle performer), hair suspension artist and world record holder Leila Noone, and juggler Christopher Stoinev. New additions to the cast include aerialist Melissa James, hand-to-hand acrobatic specialists Jack and Anna and Iris Ileven who specializes in hand balance and contortion.
Holiday Movie: “It’s A Wonderful Life”
2 p.m. Dec. 5
Enjoy Frank Capra’s 1946 holiday masterpiece the way it was intended to be seen, projected on the big screen. After George Bailey (James Stewart) wishes he had never been born, an angel (Henry Travers) is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there. Tickets for this revival screening are $5 each and will be available the day of at the box office. All seating will be general admission – first come, first serve. Cash and credit will be accepted for payment. Bar and concessions will be available to buy. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.
