The SkyVue Drive-In Theater: A Piece of History

In the summer of in Gratz, Pennsylvania, a drive-in theater was born. The Sky Vue Drive-In Theatre, as it would come to be known, would become a beloved staple in the community for decades to come.

According to historical records, the Sky Vu's journey began in 1949 when Eston and Stanford purchased the land on which the theater would stand from Allen Lincoln Shade and Etta May Shade. By 1950, Eston and Carl Artz had established a partnership to create the drive-in, with Carl serving as the executive.

The first newspaper reference to the Sky Vu was an ad in the Elizabethville Echo dated July 13, 1950. This early advertisement touted the theater's unique features, setting it apart from other outdoor cinemas of its time.

Over the years, the Sky Vue Drive-In Theatre changed hands several times, with Marvin Troutman purchasing the property around 1969. Under his ownership, the theater continued to operate until eventually closing in 2014. However, reports indicate that the Sky Vu reopened in 1994 under new management, and again in 2016 when Tim and Renate Neal leased and reopened it.

Throughout its history, the Sky Vue Drive-In Theatre has been a beloved part of the community. Its grand opening ad, featuring the slogan 'SKY VU Drive-In Theatre welcomes you to one of America's most unique outside theatres,' gives a glimpse into what made this theater so special.

Today, while the Sky Vu may no longer be in operation, its legacy lives on as a testament to the enduring appeal of drive-in theaters. Whether you're a local looking back on fond memories or simply interested in the history of cinema, the Sky Vue Drive-In Theatre is a piece of Americana that is sure to captivate and inspire.

Skyvue drive in theater