DRIVE IN CINEMA SUCCESS FOR WATERGRASSHILL COUPLE
The first drive in cinema in Ireland and the UK is going down a treat in Carrigtwohill, with people travelling from all over to come and enjoy the experience. The brainchild of Watergrasshill residents, Elllie and Stephen Redmond, Moviejunction has been in operation for six months. Ellie also runs a healing business in Watergrasshill and Stephen has a construction company called Redmond Building and Restoration, which has been involved in local developments including a renovation project in Rathcormac.
“We have over 3,000 followers on Facebook and yet the word still has to get out there in a bigger way. RTE covered the opening night on the 6pm national news back in November and TG4 also ran a feature recently. I guess it is a new business and a brand new concept so it may take a bit of time for word to get around but we are determined to succeed despite the current economic pressures,” Ellie Redmond told The Avondhu.
A substantial investment was involved in the set up but this information has not been made public to protect the future development plans.
“We have sold thousands of tickets since we first opened and have a lot of repeat business from satisfied customers weekly. More and more people are trying the drive in cinema experience and we have received very positive feedback on our Facebook page,” Ellie added.
A WHOLE NEW EXPERIENCE
“It’s just a whole new different experience, where people can enjoy the privacy of their own car. They don’t have to turn off their mobiles, and they can bring their children if they wish. The kids movies are always a big hit with families, Yogi Bear and Mega Mind, for example.
“And, people can order a pizza from their car and have it delivered within half an hour. We are constantly looking for more opportunities to take advantage of the on site facilities (canopies protecting cars from rain and wind, kitchen and toilets) with the aim of developing a strong relationship with the local community from around Watergrasshill and Fermoy areas.
"Ideas such as a car boot sale on Sundays during the day, fairs, and even a teenage disco have been brought forward and we are always welcoming new ideas,” she concluded.
The current site has a capacity for 100 cars per show under canopies and there are future development plans for a second screen being considered at present. Moviejunction is currently showing Hangover 2 and is open 7 nights a week. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online. For a list of movie and show times check out the website www.moviejunction.ie
Published:
Thursday 2nd June 6:55pm
