Keystone Stories: Drive-Ins
Pennsylvania is host to America’s second drive-in theatre, Shankweiler’s Drive-in which opened in 1934. In the late 1950s, at the height of the drive-in’s popularity, Pennsylvania had more than 180 in operation. This number has dropped significantly; 85% have closed. However, today Pennsylvania has nearly 30 drive-in theaters in operation, and this is second in the nation, only behind New York. The recent need for social distancing has provided drive-ins with several new income streams, and has boosted what some feel is a dying business.
More Episodes
The Arts are Alive
Season 1 Episode 3 | 27 min
Creativity thrives in the Commonwealth—from community art projects to makerspaces, galleries and festivals, the arts play a pivotal role in bringing people together throughout our region. Watch on the PBS App »
Community Theatre
Season 3 Episode 1 | 27 min
The arts are on full display as community members take the stage to become theatrical storytellers. Volunteer thespians from the Altoona Community Theatre and Sock and Buskin Theatre Company share stories of why this art form must be kept alive. Watch on the PBS App »
Drive-Ins
Season 1 Episode 2 | 27 min
In the late 1950s, at the height of the drive-in’s popularity, Pennsylvania had more than 180 in operation. Today Pennsylvania still has nearly 30 drive-in theaters in operation, second most in the country. Watch on the PBS App »
