The Riverside Theater: Nearly a Century of Unforgettable Nights

The Riverside Theater has been a place for unforgettable moments for nearly a century. Since opening its doors in 1928, this historic 2,450 capacity venue has welcomed legendary performers, introduced audiences to new forms of entertainment, and remained a gathering place for generations of fans.

Named for its location along the Milwaukee River, the Riverside Theater has witnessed nearly every era of entertainment, from vaudeville acts and classic films to sold-out concerts, comedy shows, and performances from some of the biggest names in the world. Today, we're proud to continue the tradition of bringing incredible artists and unforgettable experiences to this iconic stage.

From Vaudeville to Film: The Beginning

When the Riverside Theater opened on April 29, 1928, it was designed for the future of entertainment. Built by Radio-Keith-Orpheum (RKO), the theater was created at a time when the industry was shifting from vaudeville toward motion pictures.

While many theaters of the era focused primarily on live performances, the Riverside Theater was designed to showcase both vaudeville and film, as movies became one of the fastest-growing forms of entertainment. Designed by local architects Charles Kirchoff and Thomas Rose, whose work also included New York City’s Palace Theatre, the Riverside Theater quickly became one of Milwaukee’s most elegant entertainment spaces.

The theater opened with a performance by Ezra Buzzington’s Rustic Revelers, followed by the feature film The Big Noise.

A Stage for Legends

Over the decades, the Riverside Theater became a favorite stop for some of the biggest names in entertainment.

During the golden age of vaudeville, audiences gathered for acts like Abbott and Costello and The Three Stooges. The theater also welcomed legends including Frank Sinatra, who performed in 1940 with Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra, and Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, who appeared at the theater in 1950.

As entertainment evolved, so did the Riverside Theater. In 1961, Joseph Zilber’s real estate company, Towne Realty, purchased the Empire Building, and the theater was leased to United Artists, who operated it as a cinema.

A Hidden Piece of History

One of the Riverside Theater’s most unique treasures can be found beneath the stage. It still houses its original Wurlitzer organ, which was used to accompany silent films during the earliest days of cinema. Today, it remains a special connection to the theater's origins and the important role live music played in early moviegoing experiences.

Restoring the Milwaukee Landmark

Throughout its history, the Riverside Theater has faced challenges, but its story has always been one of resilience.

In 1966, a fire caused by a discarded cigarette damaged much of the theater. Thanks to backstage sprinkler systems, the building’s structure was saved, though the original décor was lost and replaced with a simpler design. 

The theater faced another uncertain moment in 1982 when United Artists chose not to renew its lease and plans were considered to replace the building.

Thanks to Milwaukee philanthropist Joseph Zilber, the Riverside Theater was given a second life. Zilber funded a $1.5 million restoration, and the theater reopened in 1984 with Tony Bennett as the first performer of its revitalized era. Bennett would return several times, and in 1986, Liberace performed eight shows here, playing his final shows in Milwaukee.

A New Chapter with Pabst Theater Group

In 2005, Pabst Theater Group began operating the Riverside Theater, opening a new chapter in the venue’s long history. Since then, we’ve had the honor of welcoming an incredible variety of artists to the stage, including The Moody Blues, Neil Young, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Kevin Hart, Widespread Panic, Charlie Berens, and many more.

From music legends and comedians to leaders and storytellers, the Riverside Theater continues to be a place where audiences come together for unforgettable experiences.

Nearly a Century of Unforgettable Nights

For nearly 100 years, this has been a place where memories are made. Its welcomed icons, adapted through changing times, and continued to bring people together through the power of live entertainment.

At Pabst Theater Group, we believe caring for artists is just as important as creating exceptional shows. Our hospitality team, including an in-house chef, pastry chef, barista, and event staff, helps create an experience that sets our venues apart.

We are proud to honor the Riverside Theater’s incredible history while continuing to write the next chapter.