With the Johnson Center for the Arts’ New Decade of Vision comes many opportunities for the art center to be a true cultural arts center – one that embodies both the visual and the performing arts.

On Friday night the JCA for will present international classical vocalist Katie Saunders in

“A Night of Music and Art,” an event that will enhance the art center’s vision for the future.

Tickets are $10 each and are available at the Johnson Center on East Walnut Street in Troy. Reservations may be made by calling 670-2287. The event will be from 6 until 8 p.m.

“Katie Saunders of Tampa has lived and performed in several counties in Europe, in opera houses as well as with international symphonies and orchestras,” said Vicki Pritchett, JCA executive director.

Pritchett said Saunders sings a range of music from Broadway to opera. She performs for special events and private concerts. She teaches voice privately and is a German diction coach.

“We are extremely pleased to have Katie Saunders perform at the Johnson Center,” Pritchett said.

“And, we are equally pleased to have local talents, John Jinright, pianist, and Shelia Jackson, vocalist, open ‘A Night of Music and Art.’”

Jinright will open the concert at 6 p.m. with a variety of selections played on the JCA’s 100-year-old Baby Grand piano. Then, he will accompany Jackson, who will be just as versatile with her song selections that will include Broadway favorites, pop tunes and spirituals.

The audience will be invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and view the artwork of Mike Howard, large canvas artist, and Jerry Siegel, photographer.

“Both artists have captured the feeling of ‘going home’ with their artwork, Pritchett said.

“We all enjoy going back home so everyone can related to these wonderful exhibits.”

Pritchett said the JAC’s vision for the future is becoming a reality. Friday night will be significant in that it will let the community know what type of arts events are offered at the Johnson Center.

“In two weeks time, we will have had art talks by two highly acclaimed artists, Milk Howard and Jerry Siegel, and by an international set designer, Mary Howard. We also had an art talk and demonstration by internationally acclaimed Chinese artist Qin Bailin. Then, on Friday night we’ll have Katie Saunders in concert along with two of our most popular local talents, John Jinright and Shelia Jackson.

“We take pride in the events that are offered at the Johnson Center and invite the community to be a part of all we do.”