The iconic Rialto Theater in Westfield has closed unexpectedly, shocking Westfield residents.

On Friday the marquee, which had been advertising showtimes the day before, simply had a message that the theater was closed, according to social media photos and posts. A note on the marquee told customers to contact New Vision Cinemas for refunds.

The theater had been operating since 1922.

“Like all of you, I’m devastated to learn about the sudden closing of the Rialto Theater, which has been a treasure of our downtown for many decades,” said Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle.

Brindle said she had been talking to owners of the theater and including them in various projects happening in town and was surprised to hear of its closing.

“I know that an event like this invites speculation and rumors, and I want everyone to know that we are diligently working to obtain more information about the decision and any related transactions or plans that may be in the works for the property,” the mayor said. “As soon as we have additional confirmed facts, we will share them with the community.”

Councilman Mark LoGrippo also made a post to Facebook about the theater closing.

“Hopefully something can be done to save the theatre. One of the reasons Maria and I chose to live in Westfield was because of the beautiful vibrant downtown."

A post made by neighboring Cranford’s Downtown Association expressed sadness in learning about the closing and encouraged the community to support local businesses.

Many residents took to social media to express their feelings about the theater closing and shared memories of some of their favorite trips to the theater.

As word of the theater’s closing began to spread, a Facebook campaign called “Save the Rialto” has been created.

A message left with theater operator New Vision Cinemas was not immediately returned.

Olivia Rizzo may be reached at orizzo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @LivRizz. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips.

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