While visiting Tooele County this summer, enjoy a double feature under the stars at the family-owned Motor Vu. You’ll be taking part in American summertime tradition that dates back to 1933. That tradition was started by Richard Hollingshead, who opened the first drive-in theater in Camden, New Jersey to celebrate—and cash in—on two of America’s biggest loves: automobiles and movies.
The Motor Vu is open on weekends—typically Thursday, Friday and Saturday—until school gets out in late May or early June. After that, movies are run six days a week until Labor Day. After that the schedule moves back to weekends until the weather becomes too cold and wet. All movies start at dusk. Movie times can be found in the local newspaper (Tooele Transcript Bulletin), or on their website. www.tooeletranscript.com
Although drive-in theaters are quickly disappearing because of land development and changing American entertainment values, the Motor Vu is still popular. Even though a tornado destroyed the original screen several years ago, the owners quickly erected a new one. The location is picturesque, too, with the spectacular Oquirrh Mountains directly behind the screen. Besides having a great view, the Motor Vu can boast some other important history: the globally renowned rock band, Depeche Mode, shot a music video there in the 1990s.
