Friday, Nov. 20, 2009

Sounds like Christmas with Patty

The Palace Theatre continues its "Christmastime" show featuring Christian artist Sandi Patty tonight and Saturday at 8 p.m. Patty, a Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee, has won five Grammy Awards and 39 Dove Awards during her 30 years plus in the industry.

"I grew up in the church, and my dad was a minister of music," Patty said. "In high school, I traveled and did concerts in different churches throughout the country. Who knew that would be great training ground."

After high school, Patty attended college to earn a music education degree. Eventually doors began to open, and what started out as a hobby became a professional career.

Patty said she received a call from the Palace Theatre to participate in the "Christmastime" show for several weeks. Patty jumped at the opportunity, but could only perform for a week since she was about to embark on her own Christmas tour. After Patty finishes the Christmastime Show in Myrtle Beach, she continues on her tour, which will end at Carnegie Hall on Dec. 21.

"I love Christmas. I love the sounds and the music, so I am very excited to be a part of the show with the Irish Tenors and sing music that I love so much." Patty said.

Tonight and Saturday's "Christmastime" features music from the Twelve Irish Tenors followed by Christmas music by Sandi Patty and concludes with a collaborative performance by both.

"Grateful is the word I would use at having been able to do something for so many years that I love so much," Patty said. "We would all be so lucky to have a career that is our passion."

The Palace Theatre's "Christmastime" features Michael W. Smith on Dec. 3-5 and Debbie Reynolds on Dec. 8-12.