Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In, a beloved cinema in North Austin, recently fell victim to a break-in where thieves made off with thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment. This unfortunate incident has left the theatre’s owner, Josh Frank, grappling with the aftermath and seeking support to keep the business afloat. The theft comes at a particularly challenging time for the drive-in, as it marks its 15th anniversary this year and had just launched a new series of licensed re-scorings of classic films to classic alternative albums.
The Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In, known for its unique and nostalgic movie-watching experience, had relocated to the Austin VFW Post 8787 last year. This move not only provided a new home for the drive-in but also allowed for a partnership with the veterans’ organization, with proceeds from screenings being shared with the VFW. However, the recent theft not only impacted the drive-in but also had repercussions for the VFW, highlighting the broader impact of such crimes on the community.
Owner/operator Josh Frank expressed his frustration and disappointment over the theft, emphasizing the negative effects it has had on both the business and the VFW. The stolen equipment included iPads, Blu-ray players, cords, and two backup projectors, posing a significant setback for the drive-in’s operations. Despite the losses, Frank remains determined to keep the theatre open and operational, demonstrating his resilience in the face of adversity.
In response to the break-in, Frank has implemented enhanced security measures at the VFW location and reached out to the Austin Police Department for assistance. While the investigation is ongoing, Frank is hopeful that some of the stolen equipment may have trackers that could aid in the recovery process. This incident marks the latest in a series of break-ins that Blue Starlite has experienced at its various locations over the years, underscoring the challenges of running an outdoor business involving technology.
Despite the setbacks, Frank remains committed to providing a unique and engaging movie-watching experience for patrons. He has set up a GoFundMe page to seek support from the community in replacing the stolen equipment and ensuring the drive-in’s continued operation. The outpouring of support from loyal customers and supporters has been encouraging, demonstrating the value that Blue Starlite holds in the hearts of many moviegoers.
As Blue Starlite works to recover from the theft and maintain its operations, patrons can show their support by purchasing tickets for screenings at both locations and the Eastside Cinema. The upcoming lineup includes new releases such as MaXXXine, Longlegs, and Robot Dreams, along with repertory screenings of classics like Jurassic Park and Twister. Additionally, theatre owners and bookers interested in the new Silents Synced series can find more information on the initiative’s website.
In conclusion, the recent break-in at Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In serves as a reminder of the challenges that small businesses face, especially in the entertainment industry. Despite the setbacks, Josh Frank and his team remain resilient and determined to overcome this obstacle and continue providing a unique movie-watching experience for the community. With the support of loyal patrons and supporters, Blue Starlite aims to recover from the theft, replace the stolen equipment, and move forward with its mission of bringing cinematic magic to audiences of all ages.
