About Us
Our story began with a spark and a seat at the table.
Carla Sramek
Founder
Carla’s Movie Restaurant was born from one young artist’s dream to make art feel like home. Founder Carla Sramek started with a simple idea: gather around film, food, and friendship in welcoming spaces where creativity could be shared and celebrated.
What began as casual pop-ups in local restaurants soon evolved into vibrant showcases for artists of all abilities. From short films and photography to live music and community storytelling, each event is rooted in Carla’s belief that everyone deserves a spotlight.
With a growing team, national recognition, and over a decade of joyful moments, CMR continues to create spaces where artists, families, and communities come together—with purpose, laughter, and heart.
Microenterprise Hits the Big Screen
Carla’s story of turning creative passion into community impact inspired her guidebook, Microenterprise Hits the Big Screen: Carla’s Movie Restaurant: A Directorial Debut in Business.
This book shares Carla’s journey of building CMR from a small pop-up idea into a celebrated arts nonprofit, and offers tools for others looking to launch their own creative ventures.
CMR by the Numbers
Meet Our Board of Directors
Hilda Sramek
President
Richard Rosenberg, Ph.D
Vice President
Kraig Scheyer
Secretary
Don Cardinal, Ph.D
Treasurer
Leslie A.M. Smith
Director
The Magic Runs on Volunteers
Want to be part of something meaningful (and a little magical)?
Volunteers power every pop-up — from helping artists shine to welcoming guests with a smile.
Our partners
