Warren SkyVu Drive-In Vows Rebuild After Storm

Warren (trfnews.i234.me) — The SkyVu Drive-In will remain closed for the rest of the 2026 season after severe storm damage.

The storm struck Warren shortly before 7:15 p.m. Thursday and badly damaged the historic outdoor theater.

Owner Chris Novak said much of the property was destroyed during the storm.

SkyVu opened in 1953 and remains one of Minnesota’s few surviving drive-in theaters.

Storm Tears Through Historic Theater

Novak said he expected the storm to pass without causing major trouble.

Instead, strong winds tore apart large sections of the theater and damaged key structures.

The destruction included the main screen, sound equipment, and the theater’s classic roadside marquee.

A separate storm had already damaged the screen in May.

That earlier damage forced a temporary closure before SkyVu reopened later that month.

Novak said insurance adjusters and contractors have already been contacted about the latest destruction.

However, he expects the rebuilding cost to exceed the theater’s insurance coverage.

The owner said the goal is to reopen sometime next summer.

SkyVu also provides seasonal jobs for local teenagers.

Novak said the theater employs 23 young workers during its operating season.

He said losing the theater affects families, employees, and moviegoers across the region.

A fundraiser has been launched to help cover rebuilding costs not paid by insurance.

The official GiveSendGo campaign has a $100,000 goal.

By the evening of September 4, the campaign had raised $9,420.

The theater has asked supporters to use only its official fundraiser.

SkyVu has warned that other fundraising pages may not be connected with the business.

Novak said the response from Warren and surrounding communities has been strong.

People have offered donations, fundraising ideas, and other forms of help.

He said the support shows how important the drive-in remains to the region.

Despite the damage, Novak said the theater is not shutting down permanently.

He plans to rebuild and bring movies back to the Warren drive-in.

The SkyVu Drive-In website includes information about the theater and its history.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.