Save The Mahoning Marquee

Hello family, fans, community members, and lovers of film,

Our beloved marquee was severely damaged during a winter storm.  Built in 1948, it has become an important historical element of Lehighton, and a staple icon of our theater.  We have received many requests from concerned fans and locals alike asking that the classic sign be restored.  We are on our way to doing just that, but we need your help to make it possible!  We are reaching out to our amazing supporters to help us preserve this landmark of our town and to keep the spirit of the Mahoning Drive-In Theater alive!

The Mahoning Drive-In Theater is one of the oldest drive-ins in the United States, and is one of the largest drive-ins with the largest screen in Pennsylvania.  The Mahoning Drive-In Theater is the only drive-in throughout the world to exclusively show retro and classic films.  It is in the best original condition for a 50’s drive-in, and soon to be the only full-time 35mm drive-in left in the United States.  We strive to remain true to the authentic drive-in experience and preserve the original vision of the American drive-in culture.



Of course, none of what we do would be possible without Jeff Mattox, the current owner and projectionist.  Jeff will be the recipient of any donations, which will then be used on behalf of the Mahoning Drive-In Theater to restore our marquee.  Jeff’s love of film began at an early age, showing movies in his home to friends and family.  This love continued during his tenure in the military, where he volunteered to become the projectionist at Little Rock Air Force Base at the age of twenty.  Upon returning to Pennsylvania and becoming a licensed projectionist in 1983, he continued working for many drive-ins and indoor theaters.  In 2001, Jeff began working for the Mahoning Drive-In Theater and ended up taking over the business in 2014.

Mazzella Enterprises LLC is a local company that will be restoring the marquee to its original glory.  They have helped us before by beautifying our cinemascope screen and improving the vibrant 35mm film experience.  It is our hope that anyone who has a love of film, a love of drive-in theaters, or a desire to see an original fixture of the local town repaired would help us reach our goal.  No donation is too big or too small.  Please help us #SaveTheMahoningMarquee

Thank you all so much!

~ The Mahoning Drive-In Theater Crew

 
For more information please visit:

Mahoning Drive-In Theater Facebook 

Mahoning Drive-In Theater Twitter 

Mahoning Drive-In Theater Instagram 

At The Drive-In Documentary Facebook

Mahoning Drive-In Theater Website