The Maltz Jupiter Theatre was founded in October of 2001 and acquired by the not-for-profit Palm Beach Playhouse, Inc. Before it was the Maltz Jupiter Theatre it was known as the Burt Reynolds Dinner Theatre, from 1979 until 1989. Burt Reynolds was a well-known tycoon in the South Florida theatre and film community. He dedicated many years to advancing the art scene, educating the youth of South Florida who held interests in theatre and film. After its closing, it was owned by outside institutions before being discovered by members of the Coconut Grove Playhouse who brought the idea of establishing the building into a new regional theatre to Milton and Tamar Maltz. With their help, they have allowed the Maltz Jupiter Theatre to become what it is today. In honor of the Maltz Family and their 25 million dollar donation, the theatre was named after them in dedication to their philanthropy.
Avery Sommers has long served the world of theater with her booming voice and talent she presents on the stage. Starting in the original cast of Platinum (1978), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (1978) where she replaced Nell Carter after stepping down from her role, she moved on to do a national tour with Chicago as Matron “Mama” Morton (1997) lasting eighteen months.
Our Fund Foundation has made it their mission to support an arts community that has been largely neglected in the past. However, The LGBTQ+ community has come a long way from where they first started, especially the South Florida Society of LGBTQ+ Arts because of organizations like Our Fund leading the way. Founded in 2010 by a board of committed advocates, Our Fund focuses on areas that need the most aid through community assessments – primarily in the areas of health and wellness, social justice, and cultural needs of LGBTQ+ Arts in Florida. They award over $1 million annually to non-profit companies that hold the same missions.
When we share stories of our cultures and those we have lost, it reminds the world of the struggles people have faced that have been swept under the rug throughout history.
