Orange County Cinema

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Star Vu Drive-In

August 30th, 2007 · 1 Comment

Star View Drive-In
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA.

Specifications

    Operators: Independent
    Status: Closed
    Opened: 5/18/07
    Closed: 10/07
    Current Use: Fairgrounds  
    Screens: 1
    Seating: Drive-in 300 Car

Profile

Some ten years after the last Orange County drive-in closed, a group of entrepreneurs/enthusiasts attempted to bring the venue format back to life with a modern twist. The novel concept involved a temporary theatre, located on the Orange County Fairgrounds, that could be stored away when not in use.  

Utilizing a 65′ x 33′ inflatable PVC fabric screen, the Star Vu drive-in operated as a 300 car first run venue by night and gave way to regular fairground use by day. Despite the temporary nature of this set up, a traditional 35mm projector, FM audio broadcast system, and concession stand were in place on the site.

Unfortunately, the Star Vu quickly fell victim to both traditional drive-in pitfalls and the many issues that came with it’s unique format. After facing a Summer of inclement weather and numerous forced hiatuses, due to competing fairground usage, the Star Vu closed in the fall of 2007.       

Images

Star Vu Drive-In Configuration

Click on image for larger view

Tags: Costa Mesa

1 response so far ↓

  • 1 A Fleeting Return of The Drive-In // Oct 10, 2010 at 6:23 am

    […] 10th, 2010 by ccrouch Today’s photo captured a rare moment in the Star Vu Drive-In’s history; a night when the ill-fated venture was actually open for business. .   Lasting only one […]