Wagga Wagga’s pop-up drive-in cinema hailed a “mega hit”

Published: 08 Oct 2020 9:29am

Residents young and not so young embraced the opportunity to catch a big budget flick under the stars at Wagga Wagga City Council’s Drive-In Cinema Night on 2 October.

The event featured the true-story adaptation of mega-group Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody which screened on a 14m x 7m blow-up airscreen at the Cross Street carpark.

Council Events Officer Emma Corbett said the nostalgia of the drive-in concept, the movie choice, and the perfect weather proved a winning combination.

“It was a mega hit. We sold 117 car tickets ahead of the event and estimate around 320 people attended the evening, in total," Ms Corbett said.

“The atmosphere was really positive, and everyone seemed really excited to be there and keen to immerse themselves in the drive-in experience.

“We had those who sat in their seats with their vehicle facing the screen, while others reversed in and set up a couch on the back of their ute or a mattress in the boot of their SUV so they could watch the film in comfort.

“The age range was also diverse, from teenagers with a Red P Plate who’d never been to a drive-in to an older demographic who reminisced about the mischief they used to get up to when they’d go to the drive-in.”

As part of the COVID safe measures, minimal time was allowed outside of the car during the event, with marshals present to monitor the gathering.

Ms Corbett praised the behaviour of everyone who attended.

“We were really pleased with the way everyone adhered to the social distancing requirements and restrictions on movement,” Ms Corbett said.

“I want to thank them for their cooperation, which helped ensure the success of the night.

“We also would like to thank the dedicated volunteers from Sunrise Rotary for their help with traffic control and making sure all cars were moved into position without a fuss.”