New drive-in theatres could start popping up in June

Metro Vancouverites may soon be able to take their cars to watch movies at several new drive-in theatres.

A group led by Howard Blank and Point Blank Shows is looking at opening contemporary driveins around the region, including in Vancouver, Abbotsford, Langley, Burnaby and West Vancouver.

Blank said all local governments have responded favourably to the idea subject to a wait-and-see attitude and final approvals from Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health, the two health authorities covering the region.

“I think everyone is waiting until they get the green light, but at least we believe we’re the first to go through this process and be ready to execute on short notice because we have everything in order and in line,” Blank said. “We’re hoping to launch by early June.”

Last week, B.C. Premier John Horgan laid out the province’s phased economic restart program. Selected entertainment venues such as movies were mentioned for reopening in June in Phase 3 so long as transmission rates of the coronavirus remain low.

Blank said he’s working with Bill Allman, president of Famous Artists Ltd., and Scott Hinde of HiKu Productions, which produces events such as the annual Show of Hearts Telethon.

In Vancouver, one venue he’s approached is the Pacific National Exhibition.

“We think it would be a great addition to what families could do in a socially distant way and provide some great entertainment,” said Laura Ballance, media relations spokeswoman for the PNE. “We understand (Blank) is in the process of getting approvals from a number of organizations. If he is given permission, we would certainly look at participating, especially if it means providing employment for PNE employees.”

One potential site at the PNE is on the sloping pavement in Lots 7 and 8 between Renfrew Street and the Hastings Racecourse, which can accommodate up to 350 vehicles.

This year’s PNE fair, which would have been the 110th, has been cancelled. In a normal year, Playland would already be open. The PNE is looking at different social distancing models to determine if it can open in the coming months.

Blank said he’s looking at other spots with large parking lots such as Confederation Park in Burnaby, Ambleside in West Vancouver and the Tradex in Abbotsford.

The COVID -19 lockdown ended Blank’s work as a well-known MC and auctioneer at charity galas and events. He’s a past president and chairman of Variety B.C. and vice-president of the B.C. Entertainment Hall of Fame.

He said plans for the drive-in theatres include discounting admission one night a week for first responders and health-care workers. Films would be shown four nights a week, Thursday to Sunday.

He said he’s aiming for admission of $30 to $35 per car regardless of the number of people. To start, each vehicle would have a space at least 10 feet from another vehicle. Popcorn, drinks and food would be ordered and paid for by phone and delivered to the hood of your car. Toilets would be cleaned after each use.

Blank thinks the same drive-in approach could be used for other events such as high school graduation ceremonies and fundraisers.

According to DriveInMovie.com, there are three drive-in theatres operating in B.C.: The Starlight in Enderby, the Park in Prince George and the Twilight in Langley.