Maitland’s independent art-house cinema is a local treasure, ready to grow with our help.
By Jacob Engels & Jason Jack Underwood
For decades, the Enzian Theater has been giving our community access to independent films & classic masterpieces. Screening independent films, hosting premiere screenings, and more.
Annually, we get to experience films from around the world with the Florida Film Festival, which has been ranked one of the top 25 film festivals in the world.
But past our access to great films and independently financed efforts, Enzian is also home to the renowned Eden Bar… which boasts a top-notch food and drink menu.
So, when Enzian president Henry Maldonado announced several months ago the expansion of the Enzian Theater, we felt each Central Floridian was given an opportunity to contribute towards a worthwhile endeavor.
The project, dubbed Enzian Forever… will add two additional theaters, an expanded kitchen, parking, and more.
Learn about the expansion here.
Basically, everything the Enzian needs to enter the next level.
And that brings us to our top five reasons why myself and fillmaker Jason Jack Underwood donated $500 to the Enzian’s expansion project. We hope to donate more before the New Year.
THE PEOPLE: Enzian Theater and the Florida Film Festival is staffed by some truly talented people who work tirelessly to make you time at Enzian amazing. Enzian veterans Valerie Cisneros who handles marketing to Tim Anderson who handles programming…we’re looking at you. The kitchen, bar, and support staff are polite & efficient each and every time. The Enzian expansion brings with it an expanded kitchen – YES!
FRIENDS & FAMILY: The Enzian is the perfect place to bring family and friends for a good time. Whether you are taking your Mom to lunch or going on a first date, you can’t go wrong with a night at the Enzian. Phenomenal food, drinks, and entertainment. Let’s share that opportunity with more people in Central Florida with more theater space!
The always inviting Eden Bar.
FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL: For 25 years, the Florida Film Festival has been Enzian’s flagship offering, one of several film festivals the theater hosts each year. An Oscar qualifying festival, the Florida Film Festival is Florida’s preeminent film festival, and one of the top 25 most important films in existence.
THE ECONOMICS OF ENTERTAINMENT: Make no mistake about it, Enzian Theater is an economic engine of Central Florida. They employ Central Florida residents, bring significant money to our area through their daily efforts + Florida Film Festival. The expansion of Enzian means more opportunities for employment of our neighbors!
Enzian Theater, located in Maitland, Florida.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: The Enzian is housed in a very special spot in Maitland, right in between Avalon Park & Lake Mary. However, in the current setup, the parking is cramped and needs to be fixed. With the expansion, the Enzian can finally provide enough space for those who want to grab a drink at Eden Bar and catch a flick.
With already millions gathered, the Enzian needs our help to raise the remaining $2 million dollars to fund this dramatic and needed expansion.
You can learn more about Enzian Forever & donate by clicking here!
Jacob Engels, is the Founder of East Orlando Post & Seminole County Post. He is a seasoned political operative who has led numerous statewide political groups and has worked on several high-profile local, statewide, and national races. Jacob has been interviewed on national television & radio programs, with his work having been featured in the Orlando Sentinel, New York Times, Washington Post, Miami Herald and other publications nationwide. He can be reached at info@eastorlandopost.com
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Jason Jack Underwood is a professionally trained photographer and filmmaker. You can learn more about him by clicking here.
