Drive-in movies seem like a socially distanced activity. But only 1 of 2 in KC is open
Members of the Neal family were getting ready for a momentous occasion: the 70th anniversary of their Boulevard Drive-In Theatre in Kansas City, Kansas.
But after aiming for an early-April weekend opening — armed with movies like “Mulan” and “The New Mutants” — they had to delay opening night because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We had a really good year last year,” said Boulevard Drive-In president Brian Neal. “We were looking forward to the 70th anniversary year for showing movies. Looked really good, strong.”
With one of only two drive-ins in the Kansas City area, Neal hopes he can reopen soon, joining Twin Drive-In in Independence.
Gov. Laura Kelly has approved the reopening of indoor movie theaters as of Friday. But drive-ins, with everyone in their own cars, are conducive to social distancing as long as precautions are taken, Neal said.
According to Wyandotte County officials, Boulevard Drive-In has the green light to reopen because it’s outside and would follow social distancing, said Mike Taylor, director of public relations for the Unified Government. Taylor said the health department is treating the drive-in like an outdoor church service where patrons stay in their cars.
“As far as our rules are concerned, they can be open,” Taylor said.
But Neal said it’s not as simple as flipping on a switch. He wants to ensure all safety precautions are taken for the sake of his grandfather and owner of the venue, Wes Neal, 92.
Once they create plans for opening, Brian Neal said he’ll have to purchase goods, from burgers to candy to personal protective equipment for his employees.
“That’s a huge expense,” Neal said. “How do the numbers work if I start adding all these expenses?”
Neal also said there’s a question on what movies to play as some carry high fees to show.
“It’s already tight with movies anyway because of the huge percentage,” he said. “Now they’re just dipping in more to our profits and lowering our profit margin. That’s not good — especially when we’re a seasonal business.”
And, with Hollywood postponing the release of the season’s biggest movies, there’s a question of what’s available.
While one drive-in works toward its return, B&B Theatres’ Twin Drive-In has opened its doors — or lots — to the public. Its first day back was last Friday as Jackson County started to reopen. Twin Drive-In, located at 291 E. Kentucky Road, is planning to show some classics, such as “The Wizard of Oz,” “Groundhog Day,” “The Goonies” and “Wonder Woman” in the coming days.
Twin Drive-In is selling tickets at $20 per car with all transactions online. Other precautions are being taken, including social distancing at the concession stand and restrooms. Employees will also be wearing gloves, while cars must also be parked at least six feet apart.
A B&B Theatres spokesman said the chain hopes to open indoor theaters next week.
Boulevard Drive-In, 1051 Merriam Lane, is hoping to join them in the near future, Neal said, with no set reopening date yet. In the meantime, it’s hosting other events, including KCK public schools’ graduation in June. That event came about after the school district realized the possibilities of the open space.
Capacity of the drive-in will be halved and school-stationed police officers will make sure nobody’s wandering into other people’s personal space.
“All I’m doing is putting their presentation on the big screen,” Neal said. “Maybe operating the camera for some of the live announcements.”
Neal said he’s received dozens of calls from other businesses asking if they could rent out the space. With the big screen — along with the big lot itself — Neal said he’s found himself busy with the requests.
Before all that, though, Neal said he’s hoping to get the drive-in’s 70th anniversary season started.
“We’re considering all the options,” Neal said. “We just want everybody to feel safe and comfortable. We’re never going to please everybody. I know that, running a business.”
This story was originally published May 19, 2020 at 1:06 PM.