Founders
Fantasy Theatre Factory was founded in 1978 in New York by Mimi Schultz & Ed Allen. Through their stewardship of Fantasy Theatre Factory, the company has served more than 4,000,000 children & families from all around South Florida and the world. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, more than three decades of children have been positively impacted by educational theatre programs.
Edward Allen and Mimi Schultz were be awarded the 2019 Pioneer Award by the South Florida Theatre League at its Remy Awards Ceremony on Monday, August 26th, 2019 at 7:30 PM at ArtServe in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The South Florida Theater League states, “The Pioneer Award is bestowed upon individuals who have, over the years, taken the lead and contributed substantially to the health, growth, and development of the South Florida theatre community.”
MIMI SCHULTZ
As Co-Founder and Director of Fantasy Theatre from 1978-2013, Ms. Schultz now serves FTF as a Program Consultant, Advisory Board Member and Arts Advocate.
Ms. Schultz is the 2013 Recipient of the Children’s Trust Award for Excellence in Direct Service to Children. 2004 finalist: EXCELLENCE IN ARTS MANAGEMENT AWARD. 1999 & 2001 - “Arts Educator of the Year,” Dade County.
She has served multiple years as a grants panelist for Metro-Dade Cultural Affairs Council, Hannibal Cox Grant program. Served multiple years on the Miami-Dade County Schools Visual and Performing Arts Committee. Was an invited representative for the Division of Cultural Affairs' Panel on Partnerships in the Arts.
Aside from her work at FTF, Ms. Schultz is a founding member of the Children’s Cultural Coalition. She is also an active Ballroom Dance and Salsa teacher.
ED ALLEN
As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Fantasy Theatre from 1978-2014, Mr. Allen now serves FTF as an Executive Consultant, Advisory Board Member and Arts Advocate.
Mr. Allen still oversees several FTF programs, including programs at the Dade County Youth Fair and he produces special event entertainment at the Art Deco Festival on Miami Beach (1985).
He also maintains a year-round performance schedule of his original magic and circus-themed touring shows. Mr. Allen designs and teaches master classes in juggling, magic, stilt walking, and performance.
Mr. Allen serves as a liaison for Miami-Dade County's Cultural Advancement Grant Program. He has served on multiple State and Miami-Dade County grant panels.
Aside from this December 20th has been proclaimed to be Edward J. Allen Day in Miami Dade County & in the City of South Miami!!