In 1952 the United Theatres Corporation closed the Rialto for major renovations.  A new large projection screen was installed to go with the cushioned seats and elevated floors.  It was then touted that the Rialto was one of Central Arkansas' finest theatres. 

The theatre maintained operation until 1987 when the current owners, the United Artists theatre chain, closed the building.  At the time of the closing, United Artists had partitioned the lone theatre to three separate screens. 

After years of decay, the Rialto Community Arts Center was formed in 1997 as a subsidiary of The Arts Council of Conway County.  The Board of Directors agreed to begin renovation to return the Rialto to its former glory.