Entry No. 31 — the Raleigh file — filed under: midnight movies
The Rialto Theatre
Built in 1942, this historic independent cinema features vintage recessed lighting, a live performance stage, and classic Art Deco style. Beyond foreign and indie films, it is legendary for its recurring Friday midnight screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The story
Five Points has changed plenty over the decades, but the doors at 1620 Glenwood Avenue still drop you straight back to 1942. Built in classic Art Deco style, the single-screen Rialto Theatre keeps its vintage recessed ceiling lights and live performance stage intact, outlasting the wave of sterile multiplexes that swallowed up the rest of the city's old screens.
Under new ownership, the space continues to balance independent film, comedy, and live music, but its true late-night ritual belongs to Friday midnight. That's when the screen hosts recurring showings of *The Rocky Horror Picture Show*, kept alive by the 'Low Down Cheap Little Punks' shadow cast performing live directly in front of the projection.
What it's like
If you're aiming for the Friday midnight *Rocky Horror* run, pull up around 11:30 PM. Grab a local craft beer from the concession counter and secure your seat before the shadow cast takes over the floor. Street parking in the Five Points intersection fills up fast on Friday evenings, so build in a few extra minutes to circle the neighborhood blocks.
The move: Arrive by 11:30 PM, grab a local craft beer from concessions, and join the crowd as the 'Low Down Cheap Little Punks' shadow cast performs live in front of the screen during midnight Rocky Horror.
- 📍 Five Points
- 💸 $
- ⚡ Low-key
- 🌗 Outdoors
Where: 1620 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27608
Hours: Added 2026-07-21 — confirm current hours before you go.
Pair it with
- Dancing Moon Books & Gifts — Browse metaphysical literature and tarot decks in Five Points before heading over to the Rialto for a late show.
- Bar Sous Terre — Start with a quiet cocktail in an intimate subterranean lounge before making your way to Five Points for midnight cinema.
- Oberlin Cemetery — Visit this historic 1873 cemetery during the day, then head down Glenwood Avenue for an evening film under vintage Art Deco lighting.
Good to know
What is the Rialto's signature night?
The theatre is famous for its recurring Friday midnight screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, accompanied live by the 'Low Down Cheap Little Punks' shadow cast.
What kind of programming does the theatre run?
Beyond indie and foreign film screenings, the venue hosts live music, comedy sets, and special stage performances.
When was the Rialto Theatre built?
The theatre opened in 1942 and retains its original Art Deco architecture and vintage recessed lighting.
Are adult beverages available?
Yes, you can pick up local craft beer at the concession stand along with standard theatre snacks.
Plan a visit & invite your people →
Further reading: Official site · visitraleigh.com · Facebook · Reddit
last checked: 2026-07-21