Couple buys Goochland Drive-In Theater, plans to continue legacy

CORRECTION: This article has been updated to accurately reflect that public records only show the amount paid for the real estate.

GOOCHLAND COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A couple has purchased the Goochland Drive-In Theater from its original owners and has promised to ensure the preservation of the drive-in's legacy.

On Tuesday, March 17, new ownership shared a press release regarding the transition.

The drive-in was reportedly acquired by James and Kathryn Munsey, who purchased the theater from its original owners and founders, John and Kristina Heidel, who established the venue in 2009.

Property records show the Munseys bought the drive-in land on March 4 for $1.1 million, though according to the Goochland Drive-In Theater, it does not reflect "any additional financial details of the transaction," meaning it does not reflect the total amount of the deal.

The new co-owners said the transition comes after a selection process by the founders to "ensure the drive-in's legacy is preserved."

The Munseys reportedly have years of experience in the entertainment and events industry. In the 2000s, the couple reportedly owned Austins Special Events Company and Massino's Casinos.

James Munsey serves as the treasurer on the board of Carytown's Byrd Theater Foundation and as chief operating officer of Matrix Capital Markets Group, a Richmond-based investment bank and division of Citizens Bank.

Munsey said in the release that staff will be retained, and the theater's snack bar will continue operating.

"For more than six months, we searched for the right people to take over the drive-in," said John Heidel. "We are so excited that we found James and Kathryn. Their personalities, experience, and enthusiasm are exactly what we have been looking for to carry on and grow this special place. It's definitely a bittersweet moment for our family. We will truly miss our wonderful patrons and beloved GDIT Crew, but we know that they’re in excellent hands.

The transition comes after the theater announced on social media in late May 2025 that the business would be sold.

"The Goochland Drive-In Theater has become a landmark in central Virginia," said James Munsey. "It's a place where families have come for more than 15 years to create memories and enjoy a night out together in an environment that is unlike any other in the region. John and Kristina have developed something truly special, and Kathryn and I are honored to become the next stewards of what they've built. We look forward to continuing and growing upon the traditions and culture they've created.

Co-owners said the drive-in will open for the 2026 season on Friday, March 27, with tickets available on its website starting Friday, March 20.