On the eve of the Shelia Jackson & Friends Holiday Concert, Jackson’s thoughts were of the many performing artists who have shared their talents with the show over the past 10 years. And, also of those who have packed the Claudia Crosby Theater in the spirit of community and of the Christmas season.

“We already know that Friday night will be a wonderful night of music and that the community will again join us in ushering in the Christmas season in a musical way,” Jackson said. “So, we want to say thank you all.”

This year’s Holiday Concert will be somewhat different from those in the past. Christmas music will be played and sung throughout the concert.

In past concerts, the first act featured Broadway tunes, pop and jazz music while the second act was devoted to Christmas music.

“But, it’s the holiday season so holiday music will be played and sung throughout the concert,” Jackson said. “We have a large number of Christmas songs – all the traditional favorites — and newer favorites like ‘Rocking Around the Christmas Tree.’ The Children’s Chorus will sing ‘Love Train,’ which is a coming together song.”

Jackson has been requested to sing ‘Ave Maria’ and she will honor that request.

“The Troy University Dance Repertory will perform several dances throughout the program,” she said. “They are amazingly talented and will add much to the show.”

The 2017 Sheila Jackson & Friends Holiday Concert will feature the singers who have been singing with Jackson since the concert began, Christine Barron, Dorsey Fayson and Carnell Barron. Jackson’s son, Patrick, will be featured on the saxophone and her daughters, Haley will be on piano and Gabby, will play the keyboard with Henry Terry.

“This year’s concert will feature some of the most amazing soloists including new performers to the concert, Felecia Carlisle, Caitlin Hicks, Jaecyn Wortham and Darryl Caldwell. Arleshia Lane Turner will be on the keyboard.

Other favorite performers will include, Henry Everett, Quinton Cockrell, Tommy Newman, David Everett, Tori Lee-Averett, Gerry Green, Dr. John Jinright, Felecia Carlisle, Keith Anderson, James Boyd and Adrian Hicks and Margie Simmons.

“Tonya Terry and Willie B. Williams, Jr. will be our emcees and they are very popular with our audiences,” Jackson said. “We invite everybody to join us Friday night as we welcome and celebrate the 2017 Christmas season.”

The concert is sponsored by the Troy Arts Council with support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door. Showtime is 7 p.m. Friday.