The Xanadu Drive-In is an Australian-first movie experience, set to be hosted at the Torrens Parade Grounds on December 18 and 19.

A brand new COVID-safe, socially distanced performance experience that combines nostalgic film screenings with live cabaret and performance, created and presented by a multi-award-winning team made up of prolific Adelaide creative Erin Fowler, Will Spartalis, Lewis Major and Tom Kitney, who are behind such projects as ‘Blunderland’, ‘Smashed’, ‘Egg’, ‘Femme, ‘Traffic’ and ‘Black Box Live’.

The Xanadu Drive-in is set to run as part of the 2022 Adelaide Fringe but given there is nothing better than a Christmas movie in December; The Xanadu Drive-In will be hosting two very Christmas themed screenings on December 18th and 19th of 2 essential Christmas films.

December 18th is The Nightmare Before Christmas followed by a “Oogie Boogie’s Bonanza Late Night Xmas Party” with DJ and continued festivities.

December 19th is, It’s A Wonderful Life, followed by a “George Bailey’s Bellringer Bash Late Night Xmas Party”.

The Xanadu Drive-In is more than just a drive-in venue; it is a collection of creatives, experienced designers, and entertainment experts, creating an immersive cinematic experience offering opportunities to relive some of the best films alongside some of the best cabaret and performance that South Australia has to offer.

Along with a nostalgic screen and cabaret experience, the Xanadu Drive-In will offer your Drive-In attending favourites, as you indulge in in great food and drink from a selection of premiere South Australian suppliers, including popcorn and choc-tops, along with market stalls, bars from The Speakeasy Hotel vintage caravans, and roving performances.

Since the onset of the COVID pandemic, drive-in cinemas worldwide have exploded, with expansion from “3 in the UK, to 40 during the coronavirus pandemic,” according to data from ComScore.

Artist and Co-Creator of the Xanadu Drive-In Erin Fowler is excited to be bringing the special feeling of a classic Drive-In to the Torrens Parade Grounds.

“I think everyone has really fond memories of the drive-in, jumping in your car as a family and watching some great films while eating popcorn and choc-tops and it’s these experiences that we want to capture with the Xanadu Drive-In but elevate it with live performances from some of Adelaide’s most talented creatives.”

The arts industry has been deeply affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and Fowler is excited to be offering an opportunity for so many local artists to be involved in this unique project.

“With over 56 artists and arts workers involved, and over 800 hours of employment offered across our 21/22 season, we are attempting to significantly stimulate and support our currently struggling arts and events sector. We’re really proud of our fun idea and can’t wait to see hundreds of smiling faces both at our Christmas showing and our Fringe Season.”

The Xanadu Drive-In Christmas Edition

December 18thA Nightmare Before Christmas + “Oogie Boogie’s Bonanza Late Night Xmas Party”

December 19thIt’s A Wonderful Life + “George Bailey’s Bellringer Bash Late Night Xmas Party”

 Torrens Parade Ground with gates from 7pm nightly.

For tickets and information: www.xanadudrivein.com