After 25 years of bringing stories to life, The REP Theatre closed its doors following its final summer performances in mid-August, marking the end of an era for the 30A arts community.
Founded a quarter-century ago, The REP had long been a cornerstone of cultural life, entertaining local families and visitors alike. The closure came after a convergence of challenges: the departure of key artistic leadership, rising operating expenses, and the non-renewal of the theatre’s lease in Seaside due to planned renovations. With the added difficulty of finding a new, affordable venue while recruiting new leadership, the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to cease operations.
“For 25 years, The REP was more than just a stage,” the theatre said in its announcement. “It was a home for artists, a source of joy for audiences and a vibrant part of the community’s cultural fabric.”
The REP expressed deep gratitude to audiences, volunteers, artists, donors, sponsors, and its Board of Directors, both past and present, for their unwavering support. Special recognition went to founders Craige Hoover and Jennifer Steele, whose vision sparked the organization’s journey.
The final summer shows became a community-wide celebration, honoring the stories told and memories created together. “This last run was a testament to the spirit and artistry that defined The REP for 25 wonderful years,” the theatre shared.
Although the curtain has fallen, The REP leaves behind a legacy of laughter, tears and inspiration woven into the cultural fabric of South Walton. For many, it will always be remembered as the little theatre that made a big impact.
30A Songwriters Festival Returns for 17th Year
For 17 years, the 30A Songwriters Festival has drawn thousands of music fans from around the world to Scenic Highway 30A, transforming the Gulf Coast into a mecca for original songwriters. The 2026 festival takes place January 16–19 with more than 125 artists performing over 300 shows across 30 unique venues, from intimate patios to 6,000-seat outdoor stages.
Presented by Grand Boulevard, this year’s festival will feature headline performances at Grand Boulevard’s Town Center main stage by Mavis Staples, Toad the Wet Sprocket, 10,000 Maniacs, I’m With Her, Nikki Lane, and Paul McDonald & the Mourning Doves. Additional artists will be announced this summer.
Venues throughout South Walton will once again be converted into state-of-the-art listening rooms, ranging from 100 to 1,000 seats. Amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, bars, and theaters provide fans with the rare opportunity to experience world-class songwriters in intimate settings. WMOT, based in Nashville, will again record select performances for its World Cafe sessions in partnership with WXPN Philadelphia.
Weekend passes and VIP tickets are available now. VIP packages include premium seating and complimentary gourmet food and drinks in the VIP tent during main stage shows, as well as full weekend transportation options for groups.
The festival is produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and Russell Carter Artist Management, presented by Grand Boulevard with support from Visit South Walton, WaterColor Inn & Resort, and ASCAP. Festival passes and details are available at 30ASongwritersFestival.com.
Lyrics on the Harbor: Destin’s First Songwriter Festival Debuts This Fall
October 10–11, 2025 | Heron Harbor, Destin, Florida
For the first time, our historic Destin Harbor will echo with the stories behind the songs you love. The inaugural Destin Songwriter Festival arrives October 10–11, 2025, transforming Heron Harbor (314 Harbor Blvd.) into two days of music, storytelling and coastal beauty.
Expect free daytime performances on three side stages at harbor-front bars and restaurants, followed by ticketed evening headliner shows on the Main Stage — all set against our beautiful Destin Harbor. Acclaimed songwriters from throughout the country will share intimate acoustic sets and the inspiration behind their hits, creating an unforgettable experience for music lovers and storytellers alike.
Tickets & Details
GA 2-Day Pass: $60
GA Friday or Saturday: $35/day
VIP Table (2-Day): $1,000
Main Stage shows require GA or VIP tickets; side stages are free.
A portion of proceeds supports Operation Song, a nonprofit helping veterans and military families heal through songwriting.
Visit DestinSongwritersFestival.com to learn more and get your tickets.
