Some events are so popular they, almost instantly, become traditions.

The Shelia Jackson and Company Christmas Concert is one.

For the third year now, Shelia Jackson and Company will help ring in the holiday season in Pike County with a Christmas concert for all ages.

The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Claudia Crosby Theater on the campus of Troy University. Shelia Jackson and Company is a presentation of the Troy Arts Council.

“Shelia’s concert is one of the most popular productions that the Troy Arts Council has sponsored in several years,” said Kristi Drinkwater, TAC president. “Her concert has quickly become a Christmas tradition, and I can’t think of a better way to ring in the holidays.

“Shelia does a good job of involving a lot of people in the community. She really focuses on local talent. She includes the band members and singers who play, sing and perform as a part of the concert. Shelia likes to use people from our area and that is special in itself.”

As good as the supporting talent is, it’s Jackson who steals the spotlight.

“Shelia is a great talent and not just locally,” Drinkwater said. “She has received state and national recognition. And, we are honored that she is willing to share her talent with us. It will be a real treat to have her and her band perform for us this Thursday.”

The Shelia Jackson and Company Christmas Concert is the TAC’s way of getting the Christmas season underway in a wonderful way.

“If doesn’t put you in the Christmas spirit, I don’t know what will,” Drinkwater said. “Especially, when Shelia sings ‘O Holy Night.’ It will bring tears to your eyes.”

Jackson said the Christmas concert will have something for everyone. Of course, the focus will be on the Christmas season but there will also be some jazz and a few popular tunes.

“We’ll offer a variety of music,” Jackson said. “The band is outstanding and six great singers will back me up. It should be a good show. We’re all looking forward to it.”

Tickets for the Shelia Jackson and Company Christmas Concert are $10. Tickets are available at Ideal Graphics and the Troy Tourism Office and will be available at the door.

This is a TAC patrons’ event and reserved seating is provided for patrons. “We invite everyone to join us for this wonderful holiday event as we celebrate the coming of the Christmas season,” Drinkwater said.