Natalie Douglas, as the education director of the Mabel Mercer Foundation, hosts the 7th annual event where twelve finalists demonstrate their skills through renditions of beloved classic popular standards, judged by respected figures in the industry which include Aisha de Haas (Broadway singer and actress), Elysa Gardner (arts contributor at The New York Times & New York Sun), James Gavin (author and freelance journalist), Mark Hummel (Broadway conductor & dance music arranger), and Sidney Myer (cabaret icon and ringmaster at Don’t Tell Mama). Sponsored by the Adela and Larry Elow endowment fund, the aim is to inspire teenagers to delve into and perform songs from The Great American Songbook, composed from 1900 to 1970. This initiative awards annual cash prizes, including a $2,500 first prize, $1,500 second prize, and $1,000 third prize, recognizing the exceptional talents of three students from New York City's performing arts high schools. It's a unique opportunity to witness and celebrate the emerging young talents of today. There is a $25.00 food and/or beverage minimum to be met by each guest in attendance in addition to the $10 cover charge at the Laurie Beechman Theatre.

The Mabel Mercer Foundation celebrates legend Julie Wilson and her contributions to the cabaret art form and community on the 100th anniversary of her birth year. Julie’s dominant presence in the cabaret world over the many decades led her to be called “The Queen of Cabaret”. The gala event will be held in the Cotillion Room of The Pierre Hotel complete with libations, hors d’oeuvres, gourmet buffet, and a slate of performers to honor Julie Wilson’s legacy including Karen Akers, Carole J. Bufford, Melissa Errico, Jeff Harnar, Sue Matsuki, Holt McCallany (son of Julie Wilson), MOIPEI (Mary, Maggy & Marta), Sidney Myer, Craig Rubano, KT Sullivan and Amra-Faye Wright, with Jon Weber (piano) and Steve Doyle (bass).

Thirteen-time MAC Award, two-time Backstage Bistro Award and Nightlife Award Winner NATALIE DOUGLAS returns to the NAC spotlight with “A JUNETEENTH JUBILEE”. Having made her Juneteenth concert an annual tradition at Birdland Jazz, Natalie is thrilled to launch this new iteration created especially for the National Arts Club audience. Natalie, her music director Jon Weber & special guest artists Aisha de Haas, Julia Parasram, and Darnell White, will perform songs celebrating Black history & Black excellence, including, “Blackbird,”“Mississippi Goddam,” “Freedom Day,” “Compared To What?” and many others, featuring the work of Dr. Nina Simone, Eugene Daniels, Roberta Flack, Sammy Davis, Jr, Dr. Billy Taylor, & Lena Horne to name a few. Join Natalie & friends as they celebrate this Federal Holiday with music, friendship, laughter, healing, & hope! The program is free and registration details will be announced soon at The National Arts Club website www.nationalartsclub.org.