Walton County’s Beloved Theatrical Production, Grit & Grace Returns: “The Paths We Take” Opens July 18

Celebrating Community, Resilience, and Storytelling

DeFuniak Springs / Walton County, FL — Grit & Grace, the official folklife production of Walton County, Florida, proudly presents its 2025 production of “The Paths We Take.” This year’s performance continues the organization’s long-standing mission to preserve and honor the people, places, and stories that have shaped its community.

Written by renowned artist, poet, and playwright Nancy Hasty, the annual theatrical performance will take place on July 18, 19, and 20 at the historic Florida Chautauqua Theater in DeFuniak Springs and on July 22 at A Simple Faith Church in Santa Rosa Beach. With a dedicated cast of talent, told through original music, storytelling, and heartfelt performances, the production captures the soul of the community in a way that only Grit & Grace can. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.HWY331.com/gritgrace

The inspiration for this year’s play is the trajectory of life. The theme is rooted in the idea that every path we take influences who we are, both as individuals and as a community. True stories about Walton County residents reveal how each person’s unique path unfolds over time, swayed by experiences and moments that alter their direction—the highs, lows, and unexpected twists.

The show highlights the complexity of life’s mosaic and how we are all connected, how our actions and choices shape our journeys, and the common threads that weave us together through shared experiences.

The beautifully written performance showcases ten stories of the human experience filled with warmth, laughter, heartache, enlightenment, and, of course, grit and grace. Featured individuals from across Walton County include Roy Brown, Grace Marse, Ellen Mayfield, Lorraine Moore, the Schissler brothers (Frank, George, and William), Joyce Saltsman Sunday, Tony Vallee, and Mildred Wilkerson.

The play also shares stories about a circle of women passionate about quilting, the men of The Opinion Place—a well-known gazebo and gathering spot in downtown DeFuniak Springs, and an accurate account of three Union soldiers who escaped from the Andersonville Prison in Georgia and traveled through Walton County.

Grit & Grace Playwright and Director Nancy Hasty explained the selection process for the individuals highlighted in the production. She noted, “It’s almost miraculous. The precise number of people emerges each year, and the theme evolves as if by magic. I like to think it’s a combination of great suggestions and bright ideas from everyone involved, but I suspect that the unseen hand of the Almighty plays a part in it as well.”

She further stated, “It is an honor to be invited into people’s homes to interview them about their lives and then to recreate those stories on stage. I consider it a sacred trust; there is no other experience that I value as highly or take as seriously.”

Since 2000, Grit & Grace has been performing consistently for nearly 25 years, with only two performances missed during the COVID-19 pandemic—a true testament to the organization’s dedication to preserving Walton County’s oral history and reminding us that we are connected through its rich fabric.

“I am truly honored to be part of the Grit & Grace family of volunteers and players,” said Latilda Hughes-Neel, Grit & Grace Producer and Show Producer. “The history preserved through this process is unique and an experience like no other.”

It’s true. In a theatrical setting, people can come together, transcend differences, and reconnect through shared humanity. Storytelling is essential for preserving our heritage and identities, regardless of who you are or where you’re from. There is always more behind the façade of a story, and this compelling production of Grit & Grace highlights our life’s crossroads, the paths we choose, and how certain decisions truly make a difference in our lives.

Whether you’re a lifelong local or a visitor curious about Walton County’s heritage, Grit & Grace offers a meaningful glimpse into the community’s spirit. The play features a rich tapestry of stories from all walks of life and backgrounds, as diverse as this part of Florida, promising an intriguing and enlightening experience for all.

Opening night is Friday, July 18, beginning at 6 p.m., at the Florida Chautauqua Theater, 804 Baldwin Avenue, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435. Additional performances at the Theater are for Saturday, July 19, at 6 p.m. and Sunday, July 20, at 2 p.m. An encore performance will be held Tuesday, July 22, at 6 p.m. at A Simple Faith Church, 360 WRM Circle, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.

Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased in advance at www.HWY331.com/gritgrace. Reserve yours today and experience the magic of Grit & Grace. Tickets will also be available at the door on show days.

Presented in partnership with Main Street DeFuniak Springs, Authentic Walton, and HWY331.com, Grit & Grace utilizes funds raised each year to support and enhance its annual production efforts, reaching a broader audience to continue its success in sharing the rich history of Walton County through the power of live performances.

2025 Platinum sponsors include The Jay Odom Group; Silver sponsors include Mac and Betty Carpenter, Bruce and Latilda Neel, and Randy Wise Homes; and Bronze Sponsors include H&M Event Rentals. Grit & Grace wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of patrons, supporters, and sponsors. To get involved and support their efforts, contact Latilda Neel at (850) 259-4564 or email hughesneel@gmail.com.

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About Grit & Grace

Grit & Grace, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, community-based theater company whose mission and purpose are to preserve the history of Walton County through storytelling, music, and dance—based on the people, stories, traditions, and events of Walton County, Florida. Each production is written by and for the community, highlighting true stories from Walton County’s past through the power of performance. Comprised of volunteers, the organization was first formed in 1999 and has produced 23 plays to date. Recognized as Walton County’s Official Folk Life Production, Grit & Grace would not be possible without the generosity of patrons, supporters, and sponsors.

Grit & Grace Returns: “The Paths We Take” Opens July 18