Enzian Theater in Maitland, Central Florida’s only full-time independent cinema and the home of the Florida Film Festival, is entering a new era of leadership. The Governing Board has announced that Wade Neal will serve as the theater’s next Executive Director.
Neal, a recognized nonprofit leader with a passion for independent film, shared, “I want to express my thanks to the Enzian Board, leadership, and staff for giving me the opportunity to lead Enzian and the Florida Film Festival. Cinemas are important cultural touchstones for us—they are where we see movies that transform our lives, entertain us, and provide connections through film.”
Board Chairman Roger Thompson called Neal “that exceptional candidate Enzian was looking for” and expressed full confidence in his leadership. Board Member Elizabeth Mukherjee added, “We are beyond excited to see what Wade’s experience and leadership will bring to Enzian and to Central Florida.”
This transition follows the completion of a two-year strategic planning process led by the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management, setting the stage for what the board describes as an “especially exciting time for both new and longtime supporters to engage with Enzian’s mission.”
Neal officially joins the Enzian community this month, with two informal meet-and-greet opportunities planned:
- Happy Hour with Wade – Wednesday, July 16 from 5–6 PM
- Coffee with Wade – Saturday, July 19 from 10:30–11:30 AM (preceding a screening of Alien)
Learn more at enzian.org.