FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 20, 2024
Monticello, IN – Ryan Harrison and Ryan Crawford announce their acquisition of the historic Lake Shore Drive-In Theatre. The theater had been owned by Phyllis and the late Earl McLachlan since 2000. Ms. McLachlan will continue to operate the theater through the 2024 season, which ends on September 14th.
Originally named the Monticello Drive-In, the theater has been a cultural landmark since it opened in 1949 as a single-screen theater. Today, it operates with twin screens, showing four movies each evening. It is one of only 18 drive-in theaters still in operation in Indiana.
Of her decision to sell to the Ryans, Ms. McLachlan said, “I talked to several people who wanted to buy it. They seemed to think it would be easy and fun. The Ryans are in the business, and they understand what it is to own and operate a theater. I did not want to set someone up for failure. I want the drive-in to live on for many years to come. And they’re wonderful people.”
The Ryans are deeply rooted in the Monticello area. Harrison is a graduate of Twin Lakes High School, and Crawford spent summers with his family in a home on the Tippecanoe River. In the early 2000s, both worked as pilots of the Shafer Queen at Indiana Beach. They now own and operate five food stands at the Beach. Harrison is the Broker/Owner of Harrison Real Estate, and together, they own and operate Peacock Music Company, an authorized Allen Organ dealership. In 2023, the Ryans acquired the former Twin Lakes Cinema, now known as The Peacock Theatre, in downtown Monticello.
“We are thrilled to become stewards of this important piece of Monticello’s history,” said Harrison. “Our aim is to preserve the nostalgic charm of the Lake Shore Drive-In while introducing fresh ideas that will enhance the experience for today’s audiences.”
Crawford added, “Sharing this journey with our son Franklin makes it even more special. The Lake Shore Drive-In holds a unique place in the hearts of so many in our community, and we look forward to continuing its legacy while creating new memories for future generations.”
Looking back, Phyllis McLachlan said, “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the great customers through the years and the support given, not just to me, but to the previous owners as well. This is a unique business, and its continued success is only possible by the people from this area.”
The Ryans are committed to the future of the Lake Shore Drive-In. The theatre will continue to feature a diverse selection of films, unique events, and family-friendly programming, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Monticello’s entertainment landscape.
For updates on upcoming events and news, please visit the following link to sign up for updates from both the Lake Shore Drive-In Theatre and The Peacock Theatre: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/RXTBvv5/peacocktheatresignup. Ryan Harrison can also be reached via email at Harrison@PeacockMusic.com.
Submitted by:
Kathleen Thompson
574-270-0128