“Hidden In Plain Sight: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens”

The exclusive event brought together more than 300 guests for a red-carpet premiere and screening of the documentary, which explores the remarkable history, art, architecture and preservation of the iconic Fort Lauderdale estate created by artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett.

The evening also included the official introduction of Bonnie Gator, Bonnet House’s new mascot and ambassador. The seven-foot-tall alligator, wearing a signature lily pad bonnet adorned with flowers, pearls, birds, butterflies, frogs, vines and leaves inspired by the estate, greeted guests and posed for photos throughout the evening.

“Bonnet House will no longer be hidden in plain sight,” said Neil Goldberg, Executive Producer of Hidden in Plain Sight: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. “This film brings to life the estate’s remarkable history, art, energy and natural beauty. Our hope for this documentary is that it introduces Bonnet House to new audiences across South Florida and around the world and inspires them to come to experience this incredible place for themselves.”

Immediately following the screening, award-winning filmmakers Neil Goldberg and Frank Linero, and Bonnet House Museum & Gardens CEO Patrick Shavloske participated in a Q&A panel discussion, sharing insights into the making of the film, its debut on South Florida PBS, and the stories behind bringing Bonnet House’s history and legacy to the screen.

“I hope viewers come away from this documentary with a deeper appreciation for what Bonnet House means to our community and how extraordinary it is to have a historic and natural treasure preserved right here in Fort Lauderdale Beach,” said Bonnet House Museum & Gardens CEO Patrick Shavloske. “We’re also thrilled to introduce Bonnie Gator as the newest member of the Bonnet House family. She will help us connect with younger generations and create memorable experiences for families through our events and programming in the years ahead.”

It was also announced that during Bonnet House's upcoming Halloween Fest on Saturday, October 31st, 2026, attendees will be able to watch the documentary in the Caretaker’s Cottage. Following Halloween Fest, the documentary will become part of the Bonnet House visitor experience for a limited time, serving as the final stop on both self-guided and guided tours, which are offered Tuesday through Sunday throughout the year. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch the documentary in the Caretaker’s Cottage as a fitting conclusion to their tour and a deeper look at Bonnet House’s history, artistic legacy and preservation.

Watch the Official Trailer at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HD5OMPyqaSU

About the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens:

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a 35-acre subtropical estate and historic house museum located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Bonnet House, Inc. is a NonProfit, 501c3, whose mission is to celebrate the story of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, and preserve the art, history and nature of Bonnet House, providing inspiration and respite for all. Bonnet House is located at 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 and is open for tours Tuesday – Sunday from 11:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.

For more information, please visit: www.bonnethouse.org.