Family entertainment comes to life at legendary Barco Drive-In Theatre

By Don Lowe

Although it has been 73 years since it originally opened, Barco Drive-In continues bringing family entertainment to life for people of all ages and all walks of life for Lamar, Missouri, and many surrounding communities throughout Barton County. Things have only gotten better in recent years with an upgrade to enhance everyone’s viewing pleasure, and current manager Scott Kelley explains, “The picture is clearer and sharper on all movies, but especially when it is in 4K.”

Kelley has a sense of pride in managing this icon in the town where he lives along with the Plaza Theatre. He notes, “I manage both theaters for the community betterment.”

As for the rich history of both theaters, Kelley fondly remembers, “Lamar Community Plaza Rescue (CPR) leases the Barco from Wanda Felts. Her husband, Butler, was at Barco when it started construction in the spring of 1949. He was the manager from 1950 and owner from 1968 until his death in August of 2008.

“My wife, Pam, and I met working for Butler when he owned the Nevada, Missouri, theaters, the Fox, and Trail Drive-In. Our children

Barco Drive-In Fast Facts

Where: 57 S. East 25th Lane, Lamar, Missouri, located on Highway 160, 1.5 miles east of the Lamar square.

Cost: $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 3-11 (Note: No charge for children under 3 years old)

Hours: Open Friday through Sunday during the summer. Friday and Saturday during the spring and winter.

Tune-In: Broadcasting in stereo sound on 87.9 FM

More Information: Call 417.682.2434 or email at Movies@LamarMO.com

Manager: Scott Kelley

Kelley understands the nostalgia of drive-ins, and he describes what makes it all so special. “Drive-in theaters are known for being a place where people can just relax and enjoy movies under the bright stars in the sky.

“We have customers who bring couches, rocking chairs and La-Z-Boy recliners and make it like all the comforts of home while they are there. They get supper from the snack bar and just enjoy the evening.”

While settings like this have dwindled dramatically over the decades, Kelley firmly believes it is important for them to remain a vibrant part of communities. “At one time, there were more than 4,000 drive-ins. Now, fewer than 325 are open. We’ve got to keep drive-ins going. So few are left now. We are very lucky to have them in this area.”

Kelley is thrilled to be at the forefront of helping residents and visitors experience the delights of a drive-in and he says, “Working at both theaters is very enjoyable.

“It brings happiness to so many people. I enjoy watching all the families enjoy their evenings at the Barco and the Plaza.”

As long as Kelley remains involved, the Barco Drive-In will continue to be a perfect setting that provides a memorable experience for all those who decide this is a destination well worth their time and money.