Atlanta Arts category interest

ATLANTA—The College of the Arts announces the consolidation of the Rialto Center for the Arts with the college’s Office of Educational Outreach. The merger, effective immediately, elevates the landmark theatre’s current program with the development of new student entertainment and arts education initiatives that reinforce Georgia State's commitment to becoming a "college town downtown" and making the Rialto a sought-after destination for students, as well as the greater public.

The Rialto will continue to serve Atlanta’s vibrant arts community with its signature “Rialto Season” of world-class live performances while cultivating student engagement through film screenings, concerts, special events, and more. The strategic shift also consolidates administrative and staff resources to maximize operational efficiencies that are financially sustainable and sound.

“We are excited to honor the legacy of the Rialto while expanding opportunities for students to make Rialto a part of their journey at Georgia State,” said Chester Phillips, Interim Dean of the College of the Arts. “With our student-focused approach, many students will gain workforce-ready skills in the arts through apprenticeship and worker-learner opportunities alongside the outstanding professionals already producing shows and events in this magnificent space.”

Educational Outreach Director Amy Reid will oversee Rialto’s day-to-day operations and management in addition to her leadership role at the Office of Educational Outreach. The community-based outreach program continues to flourish and features workshops and institutes that draw public school students and teachers, collegiate and graduate level students, community members and professional artists through innovative programming. To date, thousands have gained “hands-on” experiences alongside renowned guest artists and critically acclaimed artist-faculty at Georgia State.

“I am thrilled to see the Rialto and Educational Outreach join forces,” said Reid. “We are continuing the work of both departments, including our current offerings of educational workshops and institutes, and planning to announce the 2024-2025 Rialto Series in the coming weeks. As we transition to a combined unit within the College of the Arts, we see a bright future ahead, full of exciting opportunities for student and community engagement.”

The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University is the cultural centerpiece of downtown, located in the heart of Atlanta’s historic Fairlie-Poplar arts district. The Rialto opened in 1916 as the Southeast’s largest movie house, and the first in Atlanta. For over a century, the Rialto Center has been an anchor for the arts in downtown Atlanta and a cultural resource for Georgia State since 1996.