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Sky Live presents the riverside drive-in cinema

ByCharley Williams

Jan 19, 2017

The events team behind the hugely successful SKY Live air show will launch Teesside’s first drive-in cinema on Valentine’s Day with a showing of the film classic, Grease.

The Riverside Drive-in Cinema takes place in the big car park behind Middlesbrough Football Club’s Riverside Stadium on the night of February 14, with parking spaces for up to 1,000 cars.

It will feature a 10m x 4m hi-resolution movie screen, with romantic couples able to listen in via a special frequency on their car radios.

The Riverside Drive-in Cinema is the brainwave of SKY Live directors Chris Petty, managing director of Stockton IT firm Cornerstone Business Solutions, and Steve Davies, owner of Middlesbrough-based Upex Pies.

A range of fast food, including Upex’s unique piemo – parmo in a pie – will be available on the night, together with drinks, popcorn and sweets.

Chris said: “We’re really excited to shout about Teesside’s first ever drive-in cinema. It’s a true American drive-in experience, with a huge screen, a classic film and maybe even a John Travolta look-alike as a car park attendant.

“Valentine’s is the perfect night to launch what will be a unique experience on Teesside, while I don’t think we could have asked for a more iconic, easily accessible location than the Riverside.

“Drive-in cinemas are booming across the UK right now but I decided to launch one on Teesside after thoroughly enjoying the experience of attending one to see Dirty Dancing in South Shields.

“We’re kicking off with Grease but we’re looking to put on a monthly show, so we’re already looking at other classics along with Hollywood blockbusters.

“Given our location alongside the Riverside Stadium, we may even show the occasional clip of classic games from Boro’s history.”

Tickets are priced £25 per car, with VIP tickets for the first four rows also available for £35 each. Tickets and food can be purchased in advance from www.riversidedrivein.co.uk. Advertising opportunities for the big screen are also available.

Doors open on the night at 6pm, with the film starting at 7.30pm.