Tulsa's Iconic Admiral Twin Rises Once Again

It's been a year and a half since Tulsa's iconic drive-in went up in flames.

After the September 2010 fire, owners weren't sure if rebuilding was an option. But very soon the Admiral Twin will light up the night sky once again.

09/03/2010 Related Story: Fire Destroys Screens At Tulsa's Admiral Twin Drive-In

Just weeks away from the drive-in's peak season, the screen is up and ready, but the memory of that devastating fire remains fresh on the minds of many.

"It was like a movie. It was very much like a movie," Blake Smith said.

Co-owner Blake Smith wishes it had been a movie. Instead it was a heartbreaking reality for both Smith and those in the community who wondered if the Iconic structure would rise again.

"It was kind of sad because I grew up coming to the movies as a kid and I knew I wanted to bring my kids," April Norberg said.

April Norberg is going to get that chance. The iconic drive-in is back and it's bigger and better than ever.

The two big screens are towering over I- 2-44, once again. And the finishing touches are being put on the new, centrally located concession stand and restrooms.

"We're pretty far along here. We're probably in the 7th or 8th inning at this point, so we're getting close," Smith said.

Smith was hesitant to give an exact opening date. But he's confident it will be soon, maybe as soon as Memorial Day.

"I'll say we're aiming for that," Smith said.

The Admiral Twin was built in 1951, originally with a nine story wooden tower, which couldn't be replicated. Now, steel beams are holding up the screens, a modern touch to an old-fashioned idea.

"There's something that's nice to know that they grew up with it and now they're bringing their kids. It's very Americana," Smith said.

There's still a little more work to be done, like finishing up the box office. And when opening night arrives, you'll be able to use your credit card for the first time at the Admiral Twin.