Randy Welborn Studio

Goin' Steady
(The Circle Drive-In Theatre) circa 1957

(This image has less resolution than the print.)

The Circle Drive-In Theatre, located on College St. in Beaumont, first opened its doors in 1948. However, on Sunday, June 13th 1954, the theatre underwent a grand re-opening under new ownership. Claude Ezell and W.G. Underwood, who also owned several other Texas outdoor theatres, had commissioned a new 80x40 ft. wide screen to be installed. To commemorate the re-opening, they also commissioned an artist to paint a clown mural, similar to those found at their other theatres.

The painting depicts a scene from June 30th 1957. The audience is enjoying a screening of "Rio Grande," the third installment in John Ford's cavalry trilogy, starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. The other films in the trilogy were "Fort Apache" and "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon." The year 1957 also saw the release of "The Incredible Shrinking Man," a classic sci-fi film known for its special effects.

The painting also features a number of classic cars from the era. The girl in the '55 Bel Air convertible is proudly displaying the ring she just received from her "steady date." Other cars featured in the painting include a '57 Olds and a '56 Chevy Nomad.

According to the artist, this painting holds a special significance, as it is the first time they have depicted John Wayne in their work. The artist also mentions that they were inspired by John Wayne's performances in the early '50s, which led them to join the Cub Scouts and wear the blue uniform to play Cavalry. Additionally, the artist also reveals that they used their family members as models for the painting, including their own children and grandchildren, spanning two generations.

Lastly, the painting also includes other classic cars from the era such as '57 Olds, '57 DeSoto, and '52 Chevy Truck with mosquito sprayer in the back. The artist also included their own 1941 Cadillac Series 75 Limousine, in the painting. Overall, the painting is nostalgic depiction of the Circle Drive-In Theatre, capturing the essence of the 1950s.

The Making of Goin' Steady

Watch this slide presentation by the artist for some rare behind the scenes footage of the process of painting.

The original painting is 36x24" on masonite panel, completed in 2004.

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