The Rusty Chicken at The Rialto Opening Night

Duane Clawson

10/4/20263 min read

All images © Red River Current Media / dc photowerx

Friday, October 2nd marked a pretty special night in Denison, Texas, as the long-dormant, historic Rialto Theater was brought back to life as the new home of the Rusty Chicken Saloon at The Rialto!

Owners Misty Chapman and Tim Dighton, who have found great success with their original location in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, have taken things to the next level with this much larger venue — creating what promises to be a premier destination for live music in North Texas.

And there’s a pretty unique twist to the new layout. The Rusty Chicken Saloon itself will operate from the balcony level, while the second level will feature the Velvet Rooster Lounge. Both overlook the performers on the historic Rialto stage below. Down on the floor, you’ll find additional seating and a third bar, all wrapped up in the atmosphere and character of a 1920s theater.

After checking out all three levels, I can tell you one thing — there isn't going to be a bad seat in the house!

The Rowdy Decker Band, along with Braydan Miller & The Roadrunners, set the tone for this premier evening of live music, and if opening night is any indication, the Rusty Chicken Saloon is going to be a great addition to the North Texas music scene.

Now, a little disclaimer: construction is still underway, and as of the writing of this post, not all levels are fully open. But even with a little work still going on, you can already see what this place is becoming.

The historic Rialto has a new life, Denison has another great live-music destination, and I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next!

For more on the happenings at the Rusty Chicken Saloon click here Rusty Chicken Saloon at The Rialto