Live + In Development
SIDEMAN is a feature documentary with a companion studio soundtrack that finally puts three-time GRAMMY®–winning bassist Steve Gilmore—82 and still gigging—into the spotlight. Through archives, fresh interviews, and in-studio sessions culminating in a live performance, the film captures a seven-decade career that quietly powered legends from Dizzy Gillespie to Dave Matthews. Our aims are simple: record a career-defining album to give Steve another swing at Grammy consideration, cement his legacy among the greats, and help make future gigs a choice—not a necessity.
Produced and directed by Suncoast Emmy®–nominated producer Dave King with the SOWAL Foundation, SIDEMAN is a tribute—and a chance to give a living legend his well-earned bow.
Sponsored by the St. Joe Foundation
Join us each quarter at SOWAL House for an unforgettable evening of independent film, storytelling, and community. The SOFO Cinema Series celebrates the vibrant creative talent of Florida’s filmmakers, providing a powerful platform to share their stories on the big screen.
Each event concludes with the presentation of a $2,500 filmmaker grant, awarded to support the creation of a new passion project. When their film is complete, we welcome them back to premiere it for our local audience—closing the circle between inspiration and impact.
The SOFO Poets Society is a quarterly gathering at SOWAL House that celebrates the art of words and music in an intimate, inspiring setting. Hosted by writer and performer Tricia Veldman, presented by Emerald Coast Storytellers, each event welcomes poets and solo acoustic singer-songwriters to the stage to share original work that stirs the mind and sparks conversation.
After the performances, the night continues with live jazz as poets and audience members mix, mingle, and connect—transforming SOWAL House into a creative salon where ideas and artistry flow freely.
Each quarter, SOFO gathers our creative community to celebrate new works by regional artists in the MPG Art Exhibition—transforming the common space just outside SOWAL House into a vibrant gallery experience. Curated by gallerist Kayla Lyons, this showcase highlights fresh perspectives and emerging local voices in the visual arts.
From 5–6pm, enjoy complimentary beer, wine, and mocktails as you explore the exhibition. The evening then continues with drink specials and live jazz, creating the perfect backdrop for connection, collaboration, and conversation.
Exhibiting artists will be on hand to meet fellow creatives and collectors, offering a rare opportunity to discuss their work directly and build new connections within South Walton’s growing cultural scene.