The 2019-2020 School Matinee Series Lineup At The Rialto Is Here

The Rialto Square Theatre recently announced the 2019-2020 lineup for the School Matiness Series presented by Midland States Bank. Through this series, school-age children are introduced to live theater through a fun, educational experience while also getting the chance to explore the historic Rialto Square Theatre. Tickets are now available as a discounted rate through May 31^st.

“We had our most successful School Matinee Series to date in 2018-2019 and we can’t wait to build upon that success in 2019-2020!” Executive Director of the Rialto Square Theatre, Val Devine said. “I am especially thrilled to bring back Shaun Boothe after his sold-out performance in February 2019. His passion and knowledge was truly inspirational to the 1,700 kids that attended the show. We can’t wait to experience his all-new cast of biographical characters in 2020.”

The 2019-2020 lineup includes the following shows:

Professor WOW’s FUN-Believable Science Show

Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. | Grades: K – 8

Professor Wow will take students through a slightly wacky but dynamically FUN-Believable Science Show℠. Experiments such as the 12-foot tall “Foam Monster,” the incredible “Balloons in Orbit,” the hilarious “Bernoulli TP Wipe Out Challenge” and the “Super-Colossal Vortex Cannon” will capture the crowd’s attention from start to finish while teaching them that nothing is impossible…. if it obeys the laws of science!

Dog Loves Books

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. | Grades: PreK – 3

Based on the 2010 New York Times Bestseller by Louise Yates, “Dog Loves Books” comes to life as a musical by ArtsPower on the Rialto stage. The story revolves around the loving Dog, who loves books so much that he opens his very own bookstore. As a selling tactic, Dog acts out entertaining stories for his customers, and they soon join in the fun as well.

Four Score and Seven Years Ago

Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. | Grades: 3 – 8

This thrilling musical by ArtsPower tells the story of Lemuel, a young man who escaped slavery in Georgia. His life in Gettysburg as a free man is much better until he suddenly meets and befriends Jacob, a Confederate soldier. Lemuel’s ideas about freedom and the North and South are challenged as the two men teach one another as well as the audience about courage and loyalty.

Judy Moody & Stink

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. | Grades: 2 – 6

Students will go on a fun adventure with brother and sister duo, Judy Moody and Stink in this musical. Judy is on a mission to gain fame after her classmate’s picture makes it to the front page of the newspaper. Meanwhile, her brother Stink, appropriately named due to his foul-smelling sneakers, is looking to earn the Golden Clothespin Award. The duo will leave the audience captivated along their journey of good times mixed with mystery, a little sibling rivalry and a healthy dose of friendship.

Shaun Boothe presents The Unauthorized Biography Series

Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. | Grades: 4 – 12

Back by popular demand, The Unauthorized Biography Series returns to the Rialto. Students will be treated to a Hamilton-style performance celebrating positive, cultural iconic figures through hip-hop songs. Award-winning hip-hop artist, TEDx speaker and creator of the series, Shaun Boothe, captivates the audience through documentary-style music videos for each chapter of the series.

Prior to each show, educators will have access to a downloadable study guide that can add to the learning experience for their students. This study guide grants educators an opportunity to create lesson plans and curriculum around the shows.

For educators working on an early curriculum for the 2019-2020 school year, the early bird ticket special is $6 per ticket through May 31^st. Prices will increase to $7 per ticket starting on June 1^st. Tickets can be reserved at the Rialto Square Theatre’s Box Office at 102 N. Chicago Street in Joliet or by call 815-726-6600. Tickets can also be reserved by contacting the Assistant Box Office Manager, Kris Hernandez via e-mail.

Due to a special donation by ExxonMobil, grant opportunities are also available for Will County schools that demonstrate a need for financial assistance. Will County schools that serve low-income communities (40 percent or higher) are encouraged to visit the Rialto website and submit an application to be considered for available grants. The grants are being given on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“The generosity of our community knows no bounds,” said Jack Erickson, Rialto Square Theatre Development Director. “We can’t thank ExxonMobil enough for seeing the value in arts education and making sure it is accessible for all.”

To learn more about the School Matinee Series and the Rialto Square Theatre, be sure to visit the Rialto website.

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