Mission and History

MISSION

Enzian exists to entertain, inspire, educate, and connect the community through film.

VISION

Enzian: a window to a world of expanding respect, wisdom, and creativity.

HISTORY

Surrounded by weeping oaks, a bubbling fountain, and a beautiful courtyard, Enzian is a unique movie-going experience. As Central Florida's only full-time, non-for-profit alternative cinema, Enzian exists to entertain, inspire, educate, and connect the community through film. For 24 years Enzian has championed the belief that"Film Is Art." Along with first-run independent features, Enzian offers a variety of special events, such the nationally-recognized Florida Film Festival.

Founded by Tina Tiedtke and the Tiedtke family in 1985, Enzian began as a repertory house offering six to 12 classic films each week as well as the occasional live show (musician Philip Glass was one of the most notable bookings on Enzian's stage). By 1989 had Enzian refocused and moved into the then-risky field of showing first-run independent features. Enzian was alone in the community in booking such films, but this bold transformation was a success. With strong support from regional film-lovers, Enzian now often reports the highest grosses in Florida for many art house releases. Adventurous programming, and a willingness to book self-distributed films, has garnered Enzian a national reputation as a trendsetting venue. Time and time again, Enzian has proven that even in a community as mainstream as Orlando, there is an audience hungry for new voices in independent film.

How to Enzian!

What is Enzian?

Enzian is Central Florida’s only full-time alternative cinema and home of Eden Bar and the Florida Film Festival. Enzian exists to entertain, inspire, educate, and connect the community through film. It is a member supported, non-profit cultural organization and all proceeds from membership fees, ticket sales, and food and beverage go toward supporting its mission.

Enzian is a single-screen cinema café offering mostly independent & foreign films with two unique dining options and a variety of special programming. At Enzian, you will experience a fusion of food and film. Because we are unlike anywhere else, we do things a little differently. We want you to get the full Enzian experience so below are a few tips to make your first visit go smoothly. 

How do I find out what’s playing or coming soon?

We offer regular programming daily with additional special programming throughout the month. Check the website or call the Movie Info Line at (407) 629-0054 for the most accurate and up-to-date information about show times and tickets. Please note that all “coming soon” dates are not final and may be changed by Enzian or the film distributor on short notice. 

I want to come see a film at Enzian. What do I do?

Once you have chosen the show you wish to see, you will need to purchase tickets. We encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance either online or in person at our Box Office. Tickets can also be purchased the day of the show either online or at the Box Office. Tickets cannot be purchased over the phone. Enzian accepts cash and all major credit cards.

We recommend that you purchase tickets for opening weekends, Cult Classics, and special programming as early as possible, since these screenings often sell out. When a screening reaches capacity you may place your name on a wait list.

We recommend that all guests arrive 45 minutes before show time to purchase tickets. For opening weekends, Cult Classics, and special events, you may want to arrive earlier.

If you already purchased your tickets, we still recommend that you arrive 45 minutes before the start of the show to get in line for the door. 

Theater doors open for seating approximately 30 minutes before the show.

Please note that films start on time with usually fewer than 5 minutes of previews.

Do I need a reservation?

Table reservations are available to members of the Enzian Film Society at the Contributor level and above. Anyone can see a film at Enzian, and anyone can become a member.

For Regular level and non-members, seating is first-come, first-served. We recommend that all guests arrive 45 minutes before the start of the show to get in line for tickets and seating. For opening weekends, Cult Classics, and special events, you may want to arrive earlier. 

While you’re waiting, feel free to relax at our outdoor Eden Bar, open daily from 5-11 PM, and enjoy drink specials and a diverse selection of liquor, beer, and wine, as well as our full Enzian menu.

When is the box office open?

The Box Office opens 45 minutes before the first show of the day and remains open until 15 minutes after the last show of the day starts. In general, the Box Office is open Monday-Thursday from 6-9 PM and Friday-Sunday from 3-9 PM.

How much are tickets?

Ticket prices for regular programming are: 

• $10 General Admission
• $8 Students, Seniors (62+) & Military (ID required)
• $8 Matinee (before 6 PM)
• $7.50 Members of Enzian Film Society

Click here to learn more about becoming a member of the Enzian Film Society.

How do I get my tickets if I purchase them online?

By purchasing your tickets online you are considered a ticket holder and have the advantage of skipping the Box Office. Will call for internet tickets is inside the lobby at the theater doors. You will need to have your printed confirmation and ID ready to present at the theater doors. Tickets are not available to pick up until the doors open for seating. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before the show. 

Do you serve food and drinks? How does that work?

You may dine al fresco at our outdoor Eden Bar, open daily from 5-11 PM, and enjoy drink specials and a diverse selection of liquor, beer, and wine, as well as our full Enzian menu. 

You may also order drinks from the lobby bar. However, once the theater doors open for seating, all service at the lobby bar stops and table service inside the theater starts. 

The inside of the theater is set up like a dining room in front of the screen. We have four tiers with tables for two or four, single seats, and couches. Seating is first come, first served. Reserved seating is a privilege for members of the Enzian Film Society at the Contributor level or above. For safety reasons, we ask that you refrain from pushing tables and chairs together. If you have a party larger than four, you will need to arrive early and try to get nearby tables. 

Once you are seated, a server will come to your table to take your order. We have an extensive menu with items ranging from $2.50-$14 including gourmet appetizers and entrees, beer, wine, and desserts. Popcorn and soda are available as well. Click here to see the menu.

Dining is optional and the dress is casual. 

Theater Rental

RENT ENZIAN THEATER FOR YOUR NEXT BUSINESS MEETING OR EVENT!

You won't find a more unique facility in Orlando. Delightful inside and out, the single-screen Enzian recalls the grand old days of movie-watching. The theater offers four tiered levels to ensure excellent viewing with plush seating for 230 at tables of two and four. Unobtrusive waiter service is available, and the menu includes delicious gourmet dishes, such as salads, pastas, and sandwiches, along with a complete wine and beer list. To top off your evening, mouth-watering desserts are available.

With its comfortable seating, full audio/visual facilities, and many catering options, Enzian is also the perfect spot for corporate meetings and private functions. Room rates (not including food or drink) begin at $200 per hour (daytime rate) with a two hour minimum (contact us for special filmmaker and nonprofit rates!). In addition, any film currently available can be screened privately during a room rental. Charges for film rental and shipping apply along with normal rental rates.

Catering service for meetings and private functions is also available. Please bear in mind that our catering team is more than happy to work with clients to create a completely customized menu for your special event.

Click here to view photos from recent Private Events at Enzian

Theater Rental Kit

Theater Rental Inquiry

For booking and catering information, please contact Elizabeth Tiedtke at etiedtke@enzian.org or (407) 629-1088 ext. 234.

AVAILABLE AT ENZIAN

• 35mm projectors
• Video projection (Sanyo PLC-XP50, 3000 lumens)
• DCS Digital Projection (at an additional charge)
• VHS/DVD compatibilities
• Blu-ray
• Microphones & stands (up to six; limited wireless capabilities
• Mackie 12-Channel mixing board
• Stage lighting
• Matte white screen (14’ x 33’)

 "Guests have been raving about what a fabulous venue it was!"

— Etan Horowitz, Orlando Sentinel

 "Thank you for creating such a first-class venue to have such a great meeting."

— Amy Ellis, Orange County Public Schools

 "It was an event we will remember for the rest of our lives!"

— David Stark

 "Thank you for providing us with a great wedding day!"

— Rebecca Sutter

Press Room

The Public Relations Department of Enzian is dedicated to supplying members of the press and media with resources about Enzian and Eden Bar. Press releases are distributed via e-mail as well as available to download below. Click here to send a request to be added to the media database that receives email press release updates.

High-resolution press images are available for download from our online database or by special request from the Public Relations Department on an individual basis.

Members of the press and media are encouraged to contact the Public Relations Department if they need any additional information or have questions regarding Enzian, its films, festivals or special events.

Enzian Press Office
Contact:
Jordana Meade
jmeade@enzian.org
1300 South Orlando Avenue
Maitland, FL 32751
(407) 644-5625 x 327 Telephone
(407) 644-3909 Facsimile

Contact Us

Enzian
1300 South Orlando Avenue
Maitland, FL 32751
Info Line: (407) 629-0054
Theater Offices: (407) 629-1088
Fax: (407) 629-6870

Box Office is open Monday-Thursday from 6-9 PM and Friday-Sunday from 3-9 PM.

Staff

The staff of Enzian Theater and the Florida Film Festival are always available to answer your questions.

• Chris Blanc, General Manager
• Matthew Curtis, Programming Director
• Mara Shorr, Director of Development and Community Relations
• Kristine Jordan, Membership Coordinator
• Jordana Meade, Marketing Coordinator
• Elizabeth Tiedtke, Exceptional Events Coordinator
• Joshua Martin, Volunteer Coordinator

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Map & Directions

View Larger Map

Enzian

1300 South Orlando Avenue
Maitland, FL 32751
Info Line: (407) 629-0054
Theater Offices: (407) 629-1088

Enzian is located 1/2 mile north of Lee Road on 17/92 in Maitland. From I-4, take the Lee Road exit and head east toward Winter Park. At the termination of Lee Road, make a left (north) onto 17/92 (also known as South Orlando Ave). Go 1/2 mile, under the train track overpass, and at the second traffic light (at Magnolia), you'll see the Enzian sign on the northeast corner of the intersection. Turn right at the light, then left into Enzian's parking lot.

PARKING

Parking is available for all shows in the lot surrounding Enzian. During popular screenings or special events, additional parking is available across Magnolia at Park Maitland School (simply follow the posted signs). We ask that you please avoid parking on Magnolia and in the surrounding neighborhood unless absolutely necessary.

25th Anniversary

Silver Anniversary-Silver Screen

25 years ago Tina Tiedtke celebrated the opening of Enzian with a screening of the 1919 silent classic Broken Blossoms with star Lillian Gish attending.  From that day on Enzian has been an important fixture in the community – a temple to the cinematic spirits and, to quote a regular guest, “the only civilized way to watch a movie.”

Initially showcasing weekly repertory classics, Enzian has grown to become one of the top grossing first–run independent film theaters in the nation, producing  five cultural film festivals including the world renowned Florida Film Festival.  Enzian has served nearly 2 million guests in the past quarter of a century.

But most importantly, it was Tina’s dream to create a gathering place for the community – a place that serves as a home base to connect and celebrate the magic of the movies.  Through the support of Enzian’s members, sponsors, civic leaders, filmmakers, film lovers, volunteers, staff and millions of movie-goers, this dream is a reality that continues to evolve and grow.

Enzian illuminates the silver screen nightly as well as the hearts and minds of its supporters.  Its 25^th Anniversary is a celebration of the vision that has gone into maintaining its mission:  to entertain, inspire, educate, and connect the community through film.

Click here to read the entire Enzian story.

Enzian celebrates its 25^th anniversary with a year-long Sunday brunch series, 10 MOVIES YOU SHOULD SEE ON THE BIG SCREEN BEFORE YOU DIE. And Enzian wants YOU – the community – to pick ‘em!  Each month Enzian will announce the next Bucket List movie you voted for and will show it Sunday afternoon with a special brunch menu.