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Catch a Drive-in Movie
from Summer Fjord 2019
by Imagination
The Shelton Skyline Drive-In is one of only five remaining drive-in movie theaters in Washington and one of less than 300 left nationwide.
History
The theatre was opened in 1964 to great excitement. Just off Hwy 101, the theatre accommodated over 350 cars and featured a full service concession stand including a “surprisingly good” burger. The theater quickly became a key location to take your date or your whole family. The opening night movie was Disney’s Lady and the Tramp.
Apart from a period of steamy adult movies in the 70’s, awkwardly remembered by local residents, the theater has showed feature films for over fifty years and routinely celebrate classics including a decade plus tradition of the annual showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Dorthea and Christopher Mayes purchased the Drive-In in 2005. “We are committed to continuing the distinctly American tradition of double features,” claimed Mayes, “kids in their pajamas in the back seat as families watch movies under the stars.”
Six years ago the theater nearly was shut down when it was forced to modernize its screen from 35 millimeter film to digital. With an $80,000 price tag the modernization seemed impossible for the small theater. However, thanks to a robust Kickstarter campaign with local fundraisers as well as donations from as far away as Sweden, the funds and the theater was saved. “(The theater) is a monumental part of our community,” reported Jake Luplow, a local reporter.
Apart from being a novel and nostalgic experience, the Skyline Drive-In is a great value. General admission (12 and up) is $8; Children 6-11 just $3; while kids 5 and under are free.
Revenue for the Skyline is supported by the fully stocked Concession stand, so bring your appetite as well as all your friends and family. Pets are also welcome on leashes while outside your vehicle. The show starts at dusk, rain or shine, with the movie’s soundtrack is broadcasted on a radio frequency (89.1 FM).
