It was recently announced that Newark will once again feature a drive-in, outdoor movie experience.
Newark Moonlight Cinema is a pop-up, drive-in movie theatre that is located on the site of the former Newark Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium at 54 Bridge Street in downtown Newark.
This drive-in theatre was created by Newark-based award-winning filmmaker, Ayana Stafford-Morris and real estate developer, Siree Morris.
“This is a dream come true for me. I have always wanted to open a movie theatre in my hometown. I’m happy that I am able to offer a safe, family-friendly, throwback experience for all even amid a pandemic,” Ayana Stafford-Morris, Founder and Executive Producer of Leopard Stripes Productions, said.
Moonlight Cinema is a seasonal experience that will run Fridays through Sundays from July 24 to October 4.
The films are selected to highlight African American filmmakers, actors and actresses. Starting with a Michael B. Jordan weekend from July 24-26 and Queen Latifah favorites the following week (July 31-August 2).
The feature lineup will be released on the [website](https://www.newarkmoonlight.com/) and on the cinema’s social media platform @NewarkMoonlightCinema on Facebook and Instagram and @NewarkMoonlight on Twitter.
This nostalgic trip down memory lane is a Leopard Stripes Production, sponsored in part by Prudential, Lotus Equity Group, The Brickerati Group, and MCI Developers.
“We are leveraging the successes we have had in business to bring this experience to our community," Siree Morris, Principal at MCI Developers, said. "This is the reason I left my job and ventured into entrepreneurship. I love to create, and I look forward to my community creating lasting memories with their loved ones.”
Newark Moonlight Cinema is located on a 7.41-acre park and view site and can accommodate over 300 cars, and 1500 guests nightly while employing a team of nearly 20 staff members.
The drive-in also features a 55-foot screen, so that every space is an ideal park and view spot.
Guests are encouraged to arrive when gates open at 7 p.m. for check-in, two hours ahead of showtime. Tickets are sold online only on their [website](https://www.newarkmoonlight.com/now-playing) and are not transferrable. All guests must have a ticket for entry.
Children ages 4 to 12 are $8 and adults ages 13+ are $12. Children under the age of 4 are free but must also have a ticket.
Rain dates will operate the following Monday after any canceled feature unless otherwise announced on the website.