FRIENDS OF THE SAENGER, INC.
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA

Friends of the Saenger, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting and preserving the historic Saenger Theatre in Pensacola, Florida. Founded on March 17, 1980, Friends of the Saenger has played an integral role in the theatre's restoration and continued enhancement, ensuring its status as a prominent cultural destination. The Friends have successfully managed significant renovation projects, including the initial $1.6 million undertaking to return the theater to its former glory in the early 1980s, culminating in its reopening in 1981 and subsequent inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to past achievements, Friends of the Saenger orchestrated a major multi-million dollar campaign starting in January 2004 that focused on expanding the theatre’s stage and improving dressing room facilities. This project resulted in a reopening in March 2009 with enhanced features such as increased seating comfort and expanded dressing area space. Friends of the Saenger are committed to enhancing community access to diverse performing arts experiences through initiatives like their annual "Broadway Series," which brings numerous patrons to enjoy high-quality performances coupled with exclusive benefits for members. The Sherri Hemminghaus Children’s Fund, established in 2008, is another testament to their dedication, fostering inclusivity by allowing underprivileged children the opportunity to experience theatre productions without financial barriers. The organization is entirely volunteer-driven and prioritizes directing funds toward capital improvements to ensure the Saenger Theatre remains both beautiful and accessible. With an office located at P.O. BOX 13084 in Pensacola, Florida, Friends of the Saenger operates with the support of a dedicated team of officers, including Jonathan Thompson as President Director (PD), Patricia Gross as Secretary Director (SD), and Sherri Weeks among others on the Board of Directors. For further information or to get involved with supporting the iconic Saenger Theatre through fundraising and improvement efforts, please visit their website at friendsofthesaenger.com or contact them at (850) 595-3880. As a registered nonprofit under Florida's state regulations, Friends of the Saenger remains pivotal in maintaining Pensacola’s rich cultural heritage encapsulated within the storied walls of the Saenger Theatre.