Starlite Drive-In

Pocatello, ID

West Quinn & Pole Line Roads

, Pocatello, ID 83201 United States

(map)

Status:	Closed/Demolished
Screens:	Single Screen
Style:	Unknown

Function:	Unknown
Seats:	Unknown
Chain:	Unknown

Architect:	Unknown
Firm:	Unknown

It was to be called the Motor-Vu when the theatre first made news in the Pocatello Idaho State Journal on October 2, 1949. The article said that the $100,000 theatre was scheduled to open next April but may open later in October, depending on weather conditions.

The theatre was being built by Mel Morris, who had 25 years of theatre experience, having operated theatres in American Falls, Aberdeen and the Rialto in Pocatello. He said his son Richard would be the manager of the 650-car theatre, which had a 70' by 70' screen.

At the time there was another drive-in ad in the theatre section just called "Pocatello Drive-In" south on Highway 91.

The Starlite had its grand opening on April 6, 1950 with "Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!" and on July 17, they announced the addition of completely paved ramps and parkways.

For the 1952 season, Mel Morris took over the previously mentioned and subsequently closed Pocatello drive-in which was south on Highway 91 and renamed it the Sunset. It opened on April 10, with all new equipment.

Other important dates for the Starlite are:

--In April of 1955, the Journal announced that the Starlite had installed a 100' by 70' screen.

--In February of 1962, it was announced that they were showing first-run movies and that safe electric heaters were available.

--March 14, 1972, saw the grand opening of the new indoor Starlite Cinemas 1 & 2, adjacent to the drive-in location.

--The Journal announced in August of 1977 that a shopping center would be built on the site of the drive-in.

--The Starlite's last season was in 1979 when it was sold for redevelopment.

Contributed by Ron Pierce

YOUR COMMENTS

The 1948 picture “Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!” seems to have been a small-town favorite, probably perfect for a drive-in. 10-year-old Natalie Wood was a seasoned veteran of eight films and the movie is now known for a blonde named Marilyn who appears briefly in an unaccredited role.

posted by ronp on Jan 11, 2009 at 5:25pm

Here are some photos of the Starlite Drive-In courtesy Drive-Ins.com

http://www.drive-ins.com/pictures/idtstar002.jpg

http://www.drive-ins.com/pictures/idtstar003.jpg

http://www.drive-ins.com/pictures/idtstar004.jpg

posted by Chuck1231 on Jan 7, 2010 at 9:57am

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