Click Here to Purchase Tickets

• Admission $22
• Doors Open at 7:00 pm
• Show at 8:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Saddle up for a wild ride at the world premiere of ACID WESTERN, an unforgettable evening of Wild West Arts at the historic Rio Grande Theatre on Saturday, September 12, 2026. ACID WESTERN blends live music, championship trick roping, immersive video art, and interactive storytelling into a one-of-a-kind celebration of the mythology of the West.

ACID WESTERN features CHRIS McDANIEL,Guinness Book of World Records holder and acclaimed trick roper from New Orleans, bringing his award-winning bullwhip artistry, cowboy comedy, and breathtaking Wild West skills that have delighted audiences across the globe.

Also featuring New Mexico’s own BETTY BENEDEADLY whose signature “twang-edelic” sound has been described as “aural hallucinations and sensory bliss” with songs that capture “the heartbeat of the desert.” Her cinematic music influenced by spaghetti westerns provides the soundscape of the evening, transporting audiences to a place where the frontier ends and the surrealist begins. Original video collage and visual art inspired by the stark beauty of the desert landscape create an immersive backdrop inspired by the Acid Western genre.

Before the curtain rises, artist and filmmaker DR. JULIA SMITH invites audiences onto the trail with an interactive multimedia presentation tracing the surprising origins of the Acid Western. Through rare archival footage, film clips, and stories from her documentary Birth of the Acid Western, she uncovers a little-known chapter of Southern New Mexico film history that helped redefine the mythology of the American West.

ACID WESTERN is brought to you  by DR. LUCKY PRESENTS, producer of acclaimed events including Cocktails & Cabaret and Blue Revue, as well as a whole series of shows at the Rio Grande Theatre for the 2026- 7 season.

This family-friendly event features open seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Giddy up and get your tickets now at the Rio Grande Theatre box office or online. Guests can enjoy concessions at the beautifully restored Rio Grande Theatre in the heart of downtown Las Cruces.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

Signed to Desert Records, Betty Benedeadly serves up twang-edelic, foot-stompin, banjitar-driven arrangements that explore spaghetti westerns, experimental folk, indie bluegrass, surf & roots rock. She has published several albums, described as “some lost soundtrack to a spaghetti Western directed by David Lynch, the atmospheric album combines elements of surf, folk, psychedelic rock, blues, country and ambient desert music.”

World Champion trick roper Chris McDaniel brings the charm of the Wild West everywhere he roams. This 2-time world record holder for bullwhips uses his special skills, comedy, and cowboy songs to wrangle up a great time for audiences. As featured on The Late Show With David Letterman,with Neil Patrick Harris and Reba McEntire on NBC’s Best Time Ever, and on Little Big Shots: Forever Young Edition with Steve Harvey, and in two Broadway national tours, his original one man show “Ropes, Whips, and Songs About Cows” has been met with critical claim and rave reviews. His contributions to the variety arts won him the Historical Circus Society’s Candlelight Award.

Artist and filmmaker Dr. Julia Smith presents an interactive multimedia introduction drawn from her documentary Birth of the Acid Western. Through rare archival footage, film clips, and live commentary, she explores the discovery of Orville Wanzer’s little-known 1965 feature The Devil’s Mistress and the surprising history of experimental filmmaking in southern New Mexico. Blending film history, personal investigation, and audience interaction, Smith traces the origins of a forgotten cinematic legacy that helped shape the acid western. Her work combines archival research, documentary filmmaking, and cultural history to uncover overlooked stories from the American Southwest.

Dr. Lucky blew into New Mexico in 2018 and stayed, bringing with her decades-long experience in New York City nightlife. She has hosted shows at the KiMo Theatre (Albuquerque) produced a resident show at the Hotel Andaluz (2018 – 2023), and now produces shows in Las Cruces at the Rio Grande Theatre and at Grounded. Her critically acclaimed “Surrealist Burlesque” series – described as “Socrates meets Stripping” by Brooklyn Paper — ran for nine seasons at Coney Island USA and has been featured in The New York Times, The Village Voice, Timeout NY, AM/PM, among others. Dr. Lucky has been featured locally in The Las Cruces Bulletin, Desert Exposure, The Round Up, and many others. Learn more at www.lynnsally.com & www.doctorofburlesque.com.

• Admission FREE
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, Event at 6:30 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Film Las Cruces has partnered with the Rio Grande Theatre to create a once-a-month screening for Las Cruces and Doña Ana County artists.

Film LAs Cruces is currently accepting submissions for all forms of video content. This could be a segment for you school’s broadcast episode, short film, commercial, music video, documentary, or time-lapse reel. If it can be played through a projector, they will likely accept it!

Whether you are a high school student or professional, they encourage every creative in the Las Cruces area to submit a project you would like shown on the big screen!

A town hall forum will kick off the show from 6:30pm – 7:00pm. This is an opportunity for anyone in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County to engage with Film Las Cruces staff regarding any questions or comments you have about the film industry activities happening in the area.

TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

• Admission $10 in advance/$7 for students and seniors/$15 at the door:
• Doors at 6:15pm
• Film at 7:00pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

• Admission $15
• Doors Open at 4:30 pm
• Meet and Greet at 5:00 pm
• Film at 6:00 pm
• Panel Discussion following the film
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Understanding the uses, ethics, science and practice behind microdose and full (heroic) dose psilocybin psychedelic therapy. This is a documentary wrapped in an art film. It combines interviews on topics including PTSD treatment, childhood trauma, suicide, depression, end-of-life care, costs of treatment, indigenous history, legal history, ethics and testing with unique hand crafted visuals to be both visually entertaining and informative.

Filmmakers (in attendance for screening and Q&A):

Director – Christopher James Cramer

Producer – Devin Brooke

www.journeysfilm.com

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

• Admission $85-$150
• Doors Open at 6:00 pm
• Show at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

WAR, one of the most iconic bands of the 1970s – are set to perform two intimate evenings at Las Cruces’ Rio Grande Theatre on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27. Tickets are $85 for general admission balcony, $95 for general admission floor seating, and $150 for reserved front-row VIP seating. Doors at 6pm, show at 7pm. Presented by Hardin’s Music Saloon.

Since their inception in 1969, WAR has been one of the most beloved bands of the classic rock era, with countless hits such as “Low Rider,” “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” “Spill the Wine,” “Me and Baby Brother,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Slippin’ Into Darkness,” “Summer” and many others.

“We are thrilled to have a band so beloved by the community perform in such an intimate venue,” says Hardin’s artistic director Vincent Edward Arrieta. “It’s not often you get to see someone who rubbed shoulders with Jimi Hendrix in our beloved downtown theatre, so this is bound to be a truly special pair of evenings.”

As WAR sing, “We met down on the border Rio Grande…”

IMPORTANT NOTE: Tickets will be available to pick up at will-call on the day of the show. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE TICKETS FOR THE CORRECT DATE – tickets are not interchangeable between dates.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

• Admission $85-$150
• Doors Open at 6:00 pm
• Show at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

WAR, one of the most iconic bands of the 1970s – are set to perform two intimate evenings at Las Cruces’ Rio Grande Theatre on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27. Tickets are $85 for general admission balcony, $95 for general admission floor seating, and $150 for reserved front-row VIP seating. Doors at 6pm, show at 7pm. Presented by Hardin’s Music Saloon.

Since their inception in 1969, WAR has been one of the most beloved bands of the classic rock era, with countless hits such as “Low Rider,” “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” “Spill the Wine,” “Me and Baby Brother,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Slippin’ Into Darkness,” “Summer” and many others.

“We are thrilled to have a band so beloved by the community perform in such an intimate venue,” says Hardin’s artistic director Vincent Edward Arrieta. “It’s not often you get to see someone who rubbed shoulders with Jimi Hendrix in our beloved downtown theatre, so this is bound to be a truly special pair of evenings.”

As WAR sing, “We met down on the border Rio Grande…”

IMPORTANT NOTE: Tickets will be available to pick up at will-call on the day of the show. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE TICKETS FOR THE CORRECT DATE – tickets are not interchangeable between dates.

• Admission FREE TO THE PUBLIC
• Doors open at 5:00 pm,
• Performances start at 5:30 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

The historic Rio Grande Theatre is proud to announce its newest community initiative: the First Friday Open Mic series. Starting in 2026, the theatre will open its legendary stage to local talent on the first Friday of every month, providing a professional platform for musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all kinds.

As part of the Rio Grande Theatre’s commitment to fostering local art and “Great Resilience,” this monthly event aims to bridge the gap between amateur performers and the professional stage. Whether you are a seasoned storyteller or a first-time singer, the First Friday Open Mic offers a high-quality acoustic environment and a supportive community atmosphere.

Open to all ages. Performer sign ups open at 5:00pm. Piano and drum kit available for use, full PA provided.

• Admission FREE
• Doors Open at 2:30 pm
• Show at 3:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

GET INTO DRAG takes over the Rio Grande Theatre on October 3rd with free drag films during the day starting at 3pm, and a late night adults only drag show at night (Tickets Available). Enjoy vending and concessions all day long t the beautifully restored Rio Grande Theatre in the heart of downtown Las Cruces.

Keep the party going after Pride on the Plaza concludes with a late night adults only drag show featuring performances by Cece TV, Jordan Mathhew, Matchboxx, Mary Jess, Khaotica, Sno Price, Lavish Lyra, and Dr. Lucky. Hosted by Dr. Lucky & Cece TV.

Enjoy free drag films during the day, including the documentary The Big Johnson by Lola Rocknrolla. Winner of “BEST FEATURE” at the Lower East Side Film Festival, The Big Johnson explores the incredible highs and the crushing lows of drag queen, rock star, and LGBTQI activist Dean Johnson’s life and untimely death. Running time: 1 hour 35 minutes; contains mature subject matter.

GET INTO DRAG also features  archival drag footage by Joe E Jefffreys, drag nerd, historian, and videographer. His video work has screened at museums including the Tate Modern (London), the Museum of Modern Art (NYC), the Queens Museum (NYC), the Coney Island Museum (NYC), and the Museum of Arts and Design (NYC).

GET INTO DRAG is an Official Event for the SNM Pride VIP EXPERIENCE. More information about the VIP Experience and Pride on the Plaza at www.snmpride.org

GET INTO DRAG is brought to you  by DR. LUCKY PRESENTS, producer of acclaimed events including DRAGLESQUE BRUNCH at Grounded, Cocktails & Cabaret, Blue Revue, as well as a whole series of shows at the Rio Grande Theatre for the 2026 – 7 season. www.lynnsally.com

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

• Admission $20 General Admission $35 VIP
• Doors Open at 9:30 pm
• Show at 10:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

GET INTO DRAG takes over the Rio Grande Theatre on October 3rd with free drag films during the day starting at 3pm, and a late night adults only drag show at night (Tickets Available). Enjoy vending and concessions all day long t the beautifully restored Rio Grande Theatre in the heart of downtown Las Cruces.

Keep the party going after Pride on the Plaza concludes with a late night adults only drag show featuring performances by Cece TV, Jordan Mathhew, Matchboxx, Mary Jess, Khaotica, Sno Price, Lavish Lyra, and Dr. Lucky. Hosted by Dr. Lucky & Cece TV.

Enjoy free drag films during the day, including the documentary The Big Johnson by Lola Rocknrolla. Winner of “BEST FEATURE” at the Lower East Side Film Festival, The Big Johnson explores the incredible highs and the crushing lows of drag queen, rock star, and LGBTQI activist Dean Johnson’s life and untimely death. Running time: 1 hour 35 minutes; contains mature subject matter.

GET INTO DRAG also features  archival drag footage by Joe E Jefffreys, drag nerd, historian, and videographer. His video work has screened at museums including the Tate Modern (London), the Museum of Modern Art (NYC), the Queens Museum (NYC), the Coney Island Museum (NYC), and the Museum of Arts and Design (NYC).

GET INTO DRAG is an Official Event for the SNM Pride VIP EXPERIENCE. More information about the VIP Experience and Pride on the Plaza at www.snmpride.org

GET INTO DRAG is brought to you  by DR. LUCKY PRESENTS, producer of acclaimed events including DRAGLESQUE BRUNCH at Grounded, Cocktails & Cabaret, Blue Revue, as well as a whole series of shows at the Rio Grande Theatre for the 2026 – 7 season. www.lynnsally.com

• Admission $5 (AT DOOR ONLY)
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, movie at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

2026 Classic Film Series 

Taxi Driver (1976)

In the decaying streets of 1970s New York, an alienated Vietnam veteran becomes a night-shift taxi driver. Consumed by loneliness and a desire for purpose, he descends into a dark vigilante mission to “wash the scum off the streets” in Martin Scorsese’s gritty masterpiece.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

• Admission $25-$35
• Doors Open at 6:00 pm
• Show at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Audiences are so excited for this high-energy, unforgettable experience with Almost Folsom, the ultimate tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash! This electrifying show takes you on a musical journey through the iconic career of “The Man in Black,” bringing his timeless hits and unmistakable style to life on stage.

Almost Folsom channels Cash’s powerful voice and stage presence and delivers all the beloved classics—from the unforgettable “Folsom Prison Blues” and “Ring of Fire” to “I Walk the Line” and “Hurt.” With spot-on renditions of Cash’s signature songs, this tribute show captures the essence of Johnny’s music, his rebellious spirit, and his larger-than-life persona. Expect an evening filled with great music, stirring ballads, and high-energy performances that honor the unforgettable legacy of Johnny Cash. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, Almost Folsom promises a night of entertainment that will have you clapping, singing, and celebrating the incredible music that made Johnny Cash an American icon.

• Admission FREE
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, Event at 6:30 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Film Las Cruces has partnered with the Rio Grande Theatre to create a once-a-month screening for Las Cruces and Doña Ana County artists.

Film LAs Cruces is currently accepting submissions for all forms of video content. This could be a segment for you school’s broadcast episode, short film, commercial, music video, documentary, or time-lapse reel. If it can be played through a projector, they will likely accept it!

Whether you are a high school student or professional, they encourage every creative in the Las Cruces area to submit a project you would like shown on the big screen!

A town hall forum will kick off the show from 6:30pm – 7:00pm. This is an opportunity for anyone in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County to engage with Film Las Cruces staff regarding any questions or comments you have about the film industry activities happening in the area.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

• Admission $35-$80
• Doors Open at 6:00 pm
• Film at 7:00 pm
• Panel Discussion following the film
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

• Admission $5 (AT DOOR ONLY)
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, movie at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

2026 Classic Film Series 

Bullitt (1968)

Steve McQueen defines “cool” as Frank Bullitt, a San Francisco detective tasked with protecting a star witness against the mob. Featuring one of the most legendary car chases in cinematic history, this film is a stylish, high-octane portrait of a man standing his ground against corruption.

• Admission FREE TO THE PUBLIC
• Doors open at 5:00 pm,
• Performances start at 5:30 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

The historic Rio Grande Theatre is proud to announce its newest community initiative: the First Friday Open Mic series. Starting in 2026, the theatre will open its legendary stage to local talent on the first Friday of every month, providing a professional platform for musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all kinds.

As part of the Rio Grande Theatre’s commitment to fostering local art and “Great Resilience,” this monthly event aims to bridge the gap between amateur performers and the professional stage. Whether you are a seasoned storyteller or a first-time singer, the First Friday Open Mic offers a high-quality acoustic environment and a supportive community atmosphere.

Open to all ages. Performer sign ups open at 5:00pm. Piano and drum kit available for use, full PA provided.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

• Admission $25-$35
• Doors Open at 6:00 pm
• Show at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Two Men – Two Pianos – One Extraordinary Band!
Piano Men: Generations isn’t just a concert—it’s a high-octane, emotionally charged musical journey led by a father-son duo and a world-class band that takes audiences on a ride they won’t forget. At its heart are Terry and Nick—father and son, bonded by blood and a deep love for the music of Billy Joel and Elton John. Their on-stage chemistry is genuine, spontaneous, and moving—sometimes funny, always magnetic.
Terry, a seasoned musician with decades of orchestral and rock ‘n’ roll experience, commands the stage with authority and heart. Nick brings fresh energy, charisma, and powerhouse vocals, effortlessly blending his style with his dad’s.
Elevating the show is the live band—an electrifying ensemble of elite musicians who are stars in their own right. Guitar solos soar, basslines groove, and the rhythm section drives the performance with precision. At the core is drummer Mike Richau—the visual and sonic heartbeat of the band. With jaw-dropping stick flips, relentless energy, and razor-sharp timing, he turns every show into a spectacle. One moment he’s laying down a subtle groove, the next he’s launching into a thunderous solo—sticks flying, crowd roaring.
From the first chord to the final encore, the show is a rollercoaster of iconic hits, delivered with authenticity, showmanship, and a deep sense of legacy.
The result? A celebration of music, family, and unforgettable moments that span decades and bring generations together.
Whether you grew up on the vinyl of the ’70s or are discovering this music for the first time, Piano Men: Generations hits where it matters most—in the soul.

• Admission $5 (AT DOOR ONLY)
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, movie at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

2026 Classic Film Series 

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

On a desperate Christmas Eve, George Bailey wonders if the world would be better off without him. With the help of a guardian angel named Clarence, he is shown the profound impact one person’s kindness and resilience can have on an entire community.

• Admission $5 (AT DOOR ONLY)
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, movie at 7:00 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

2026 Classic Film Series 

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

When a department store Santa claims to be the real Kris Kringle, he is put on trial to prove his sanity—and his identity. This holiday classic is a heartwarming reminder that faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to.

• Admission FREE
• Doors open at 6:00 pm, Event at 6:30 pm
• Concessions served including snacks, refreshments, beer, wine, and spirits

Film Las Cruces has partnered with the Rio Grande Theatre to create a once-a-month screening for Las Cruces and Doña Ana County artists.

Film LAs Cruces is currently accepting submissions for all forms of video content. This could be a segment for you school’s broadcast episode, short film, commercial, music video, documentary, or time-lapse reel. If it can be played through a projector, they will likely accept it!

Whether you are a high school student or professional, they encourage every creative in the Las Cruces area to submit a project you would like shown on the big screen!

A town hall forum will kick off the show from 6:30pm – 7:00pm. This is an opportunity for anyone in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County to engage with Film Las Cruces staff regarding any questions or comments you have about the film industry activities happening in the area.