UTA has partnered with New York’s Metrograph to present the Metrograph Drive-In, an outdoor theater series at Hamptons venue Nova’s Ark.
Per a rep for UTA on Thursday, in light of recent events and heightened concerns in the area, the screening series is being delayed and relocated.
In the absence of the moviegoing experience amid the COVID-19 pandemic, drive-ins have been on the rise across the United States. For this installment, UTA and Metrograph will present a series of films, both current and classic, along with appearances by talent and culinary experiences from Michelin-starred chef John Fraser and his JF Restaurants hospitality group. The Metrograph Drive-In was organized by UTA Marketing and UTA Fine Arts in partnership with producer AMP Events. Nova’s Ark, a 95-acre sculptural park and arts center, is located at 60 Millstone Road in Water Mill, New York.
Three screenings per week were planned, kicking off Aug. 13 with Downtown 81, Blue Velvet and the upcoming documentary Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President the first weekend. Events will feature pre-show programming including a short film program curated by Tyler Mitchell, a rising star in the visual arts who recently signed with the agency. Per today’s announcement, private and socially-distanced seating areas are planned along with complimentary face masks and regularly disinfected on-site restrooms.
“The last several months have challenged us to pivot and innovate our approach towards supporting our clients,” said Alex Hooven, UTA marketing executive. “With the Metrograph Drive-In, we have created an experience that brings people together for a much-needed night out while capturing the fundamental joy of going to the movies.”
Added Christian Grass, Metrograph CEO: “The foundational purpose of Metrograph is the celebration of the shared moviegoing experience. The Metrograph Drive-In is the next step in our continuing strategy to expand our reach across all platforms, emphasizing Metrograph’s distinct curatorial voice, and finding new audiences. We’re thrilled to share this exciting lineup of anticipated 2020 releases and classic favorites, with such great partners.”
All proceeds from the Metrograph Drive-In will go to Nova’s Ark Foundation and the Parrish Art Museum. The event series is sponsored by TD Ameritrade.
The news follows a busy weekend at Nova’s Ark. The venue hosted a Hamptons Magazine x the Chainsmokers VIP dinner at The Barn at Nova’s Ark followed by a “Safe & Sound” drive-in concert presented by JAJA Tequila and In The Know Experiences In Partnership with Bumble, the latter of which drew criticism online for happening amid a pandemic.
July 30, 1:06 p.m.: Updated to reflect that the screening series has been delayed and relocated.
