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Fri | January 16, 2026
HSL Properties Tucson Jazz Fest & The Rialto Theatre Present
Sergio Mendoza & Friends and Tucson Latin Jazz Orchestra @ Rialto Theatre
Featuring Justo Almario, Luis Torres - Conductor/Arranger, special guest - Katherine Byrnes
Doors: 7:00 pm / Show: 8:00 pm
Rialto Theatre-Tucson
All Ages
$51-$73.20
Buy Tickets

Doors 7PM | Show 8PM | Reserved Seating | All Ages - 6 & Over | Public On Sale - 9/15 10AM

Sponsored in part by: Let All Thrive  Opening night of the Tucson Jazz Festival ignites with a vibrant celebration of Latin jazz and salsa, rooted in Tucson and resonating worldwide. Producer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Sergio Mendoza—a southern Arizona native and Latin music pioneer—assembles a powerhouse lineup of music and musicians for this unforgettable concert.  Sharing the stage is the Tucson Latin Jazz Orchestra (TLJO), returning under the direction of conductor and arranger Luis Torres. Originally championed by TJF founding director Yvonne Ervin in the early 1990s, TLJO’s return promises to electrify the Rialto.  The evening features internationally renowned saxophonist and flutist Justo Almario, a Colombian-born trailblazer whose career spans Duke Ellington’s band, collaborations with Mongo Santamaria and Chaka Khan, and acclaimed solo recordings. Adding a local spotlight, vocalist Katherine Byrnes brings her dynamic range and artistry to the stage, following standout performances with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Calexico, and Orkesta Mendoza.  This is Tucson’s night to shine: a cross-generational, cross-cultural explosion of rhythm, song, and improvisation that opens the festival with passion and pride.
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Prices include all fees.
ALL SALES ARE FINAL.
The Rialto Theatre does not grant refunds or exchanges for currently scheduled shows.
The Rialto Theatre Foundation has a clear bag policy in place at Rialto Theatre and 191 Toole. The policy limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into our venues. The following is a list of bags that will be accepted for entry: Bags that are clear plastic or vinyl and do not exceed 12in x 6in x 12in One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar) Small clutch bags, approximately 5in x 7in All bags subject to search. Clear bags are available for sale at the box office.

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