Tucson food and music fans can step through the looking glass at the Rialto Theatre Foundation’s 11th Annual Fundraising Gala on March 7 in downtown Tucson. Organizers will transform the historic venue for Through the Looking Glass: A Night of Nonsense.
The evening will spotlight local restaurants, craft beverages, live performances, and immersive entertainment. Proceeds will support ongoing improvements and youth programs at the century-old Rialto Theatre.
More information and tickets online here.
A Whimsical Night at the Historic Rialto Theatre
The 11th Annual Fundraising Gala will unfold inside and around the iconic downtown theater. Missy Paschke-Wood will host the evening as Chatty Kathee, guiding guests through a themed celebration.
Meanwhile, Future Syndicate and Table Manners will spin dance hits throughout the night. Cirque Collective will deliver live performances that match the imaginative theme. Organizers encourage guests to wear themed attire and fully embrace the experience.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by a live auction at 7 p.m. and a costume contest at 7:45 p.m. Free parking and shuttle service will run from 191 Toole to the Rialto Theatre from 5-10 p.m.
Local Restaurants Power the 11th Annual Fundraising Gala
The 11th Annual Fundraising Gala will feature small bites from 27 local restaurants, bars, and breweries. Chefs and beverage teams will serve popular menu items inside the theater and under a tent in Herbert Alley.
In addition, guests can enjoy beer and liquor samplings throughout the evening. Elliott’s on Congress will pour infused vodka shots through an ice luge created by AZ Ice Art.
“We’re grateful to have the support of local food & beverage partners and honored to be able to showcase their eats, craft beers, and drinks; not to mention the creativity and amazing energy that their teams bring,” said Mariah Michas, board member and secretary of Rialto Theatre Foundation. “It’s community supporting community.”
Auctions, Games, and More in Downtown Tucson
Beyond food and drinks, the 11th Annual Fundraising Gala will include a live auction, raffle, casino games, and an archive poster sale. Organizers designed the evening to celebrate Tucson’s creative spirit while raising critical funds.
Giveaways also include:
- Concert tickets to shows including Gladys Knight, The Garden, Gary Numan, and Silversun Pickups.
- Rialto merchandise (t-shirts, hats, R Bar drink tickets, tote bags).
- “Blank” ticket gift certificates redeemable for any show.
- Gift certificates for El Regalo and Rialto memberships.
The Rialto Theatre Foundation will direct proceeds toward facility improvements and youth education and outreach programs. As a result, every ticket purchase will invest in the future of one of downtown’s most beloved venues.
March Foodie Brunch Follows the Gala
The morning after the gala, Tucson Foodie will host March Foodie Brunch at St. Cruz in the Leo Kent hotel. The event runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, and celebrates the gala with a festive meal and live music. Attendees can also enter to win concert tickets and other prizes throughout the brunch.
Guests can choose from four seatings at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, and 1 p.m., each priced at $95 with tax and gratuity included. An optional unlimited Bloody Mary Bar will be available for $20 more. Buy tickets online here.
Menu items for the March Foodie Brunch include:
- House Danish and pastry
- Egg station
- Carving station
- Taco station
- Chilaquiles
- Scrambled eggs
- Bacon
- Sausage
- French toast
- Biscuits and gravy
For more information, visit rialtotheatre.com.
