Sidney Beeman

Born and raised in the Appalachian region, Sidney Beeman is a storyteller driven by her deep connection to her roots and a passion for video storytelling. For nearly a decade, she’s immersed herself in the world of visual narrative, wearing multiple hats as an editor, producer, and cinematographer across a diverse array of projects. Her journey into the world of storytelling began in western Maryland, her hometown, where she cultivated a profound appreciation for the power of narrative to bridge divides and foster connections. This appreciation blossomed into a career dedicated to capturing the essence of Appalachia and sharing its multifaceted story with the world.

As an Appalachian filmmaker, Sidney has had the privilege of wielding her camera as a tool for exploration and empowerment. With each frame she captures and every story she brings to life, she aims to illuminate the often-overlooked narratives and amplify the voices of those whose stories have long been silenced by stereotypes. Her work is guided by a commitment to showcasing the resilience, beauty, and untapped potential of Appalachia, challenging preconceptions and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that defines this region. Her most recent documentary, “Finding Home,” follows the journey of a young Burmese immigrant, Cing Khek, and her family as they search for opportunities to build a new and better life in the conservative stronghold of West Virginia. The film garnered the Audience Award at the Boone Docs Film Festival and has graced the screens of numerous other prestigious film festivals. Additionally, it was chosen as the official film of the FSU Appalachian Festival.

Sidney takes on the roles of both editor and animator for the short animation, “Afungus Amoungus.” This animated film follows the journey of mushrooms on a mission to save their habitat from the blight of trash and garbage. This work has graced the screens of film festivals such as the LongLeaf Film Festival, Magnolia Independent Film Fest, and the Durango Independent Film Festival. Sidney is also the associate producer, cinematographer, and sound editor for the film, “Sweet Appalachia: The Story of Delfest”, is a feature-length documentary that explores the celebrated music festival and its transformative impact on a rural city in Appalachia. Join Grammy Award Winning Bluegrass musician Del McCoury, and his family, and experience their connection to the region, and how they give hope through music and philanthropy. The film will premiere at the Delfest Festival in May 2024 and will then start screening at film festivals across the country.

In 2023, Sidney received an invitation to participate in the inaugural Filmmaker Forum at the esteemed Hot Springs Doc Festival. She was also selected as a member of the esteemed Appalshop Film Cohort, further solidifying her commitment to Appalachian storytelling. Additionally, Sidney serves as a valued member of the Advisory Council for the Department of Communication at Frostburg State University. Adding to her multifaceted roles, Sidney holds the position of Educational Media Producer and Videographer for the Department of Online Education at Wake Forest, where she continues to harness the power of visual storytelling to enrich educational experiences online.

Sidney currently teaches courses in video production, editing, podcasting, film history, and documentary film at UNC Charlotte. 

CURRENT COURSES

Introduction to Film 

Fundamentals of Film and Digital Media

Audio Storytelling and Podcasting

Editing Film and Digital Media

Creative Non-Fiction Production

EDUCATION

M.F.A. Documentary Film, Wake Forest University

B.A., Mass Communications, Frostburg State University