American Traditions Vocal Competition’s 3rd Annual Johnny Mercer Gala celebrates the birthday of Mr. Johnny Mercer, and features a gourmet dinner, dancing and dazzling entertainment by three ATC Gold Medal winners!   Performers will include 2013 Gold Medalist Kimberly Hawkey, 2014 Gold Medalist and ATC Artistic Director, Mikki Sodergren, and 2016 Gold Medalist Michael Maliakel.  These extraordinary performers will be accompanied by Savannah musicians David Duckworth, piano, Alisha Duckworth, bass, and Billy Hoffman, drums.

As a special addition to this year’s birthday celebration, ATC will be presenting the first-ever “Kimmie Award” to the individual the honor is named after – 2001 Gold Medalist Kim Michael Polote.  This award, which is intended to recognize ambassadors of American music, is a new tradition for the ATC.  Polote, who has been called “Savannah’s Own Fabulous Vocalist” is the only Savannah native to win the ATC Gold Medal to date.  She was born and raised in Savannah, graduating from St. Vincent’s Academy, and has continued to entertain local and tourist audiences since the age of 7.  ATC is pleased to recognize Kim’s many years of supporting and promoting the ATC and American music.

The Johnny Mercer Gala will take place at the Plantation Club at The Landings, with members/cash bar cocktails and hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6:30 p.m. and a three-course, gourmet dinner with dancing and entertainment to follow.   Attendees will also have the opportunity to sponsor an ATC quarterfinalist contestant, and participate in the 50/50 raffle.  Tickets are $100 per plate and $1,000 for a table of ten.  A portion of the proceeds ($45) is a charitable contribution, and will help bring guest artists into local schools and further ATC’s outreach initiative for teaching great American music to children in Savannah.  Tickets can be purchased below either as a single ticket or by purchasing a full table.