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Besides a buffet table loaded with gourmet desserts, the first concert will feature soprano, Erica Thomas. She will sing a wide range of music, from classical to Broadway. During intermission gourmet desserts of all kinds will be served.

The concert will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, at the Kiamichi Technology Center in Hugo.

Erica C. Thomas has been a vital part of the Oklahoma arts community for more than 20 years. She has been with the Cimarron Circuit Opera Company where she just recently completed a six-year tenure as Executive/Artistic Director. She has sung principal roles in Madam Butterfly, La Boheme, Hansel and Gretel, Ain't Misbehavin', Nunsense, and many others.  She has also directed several productions which include Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Toy Shop, and Cosi Fan Tutte.

Thomas was a district winner in the Metropolitan Opera National Auditions in Oklahoma and St. Louis. She has worked with The Children's Theatre in Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma City Arts Council in the summer Play in the Park program.

Thomas is equally at home on the Broadway stage as she is on the Operatic and concert stage. Her recent performance of Handel's Messiah in Oklahoma City was well received with accolades for her expressive singing and beautiful voice.

"I am very exited to be coming to Hugo," Thomas said. "I love to sing, of course, but the desserts. Now that will be wonderful."

Other concerts in the 2009 Performing Arts Series are the Bravo Brass Quintet on Feb. 12, and the Ancient Radio Players on March 19. All events will be at the Kiamichi Technology Center at 7 p.m.

Individual tickets to each event are $20. A Series Ticket for all three concerts is available for $45.00.

Tickets are available at the Hugo Area Chamber of Commerce and Special Expressions in Hugo. They also can be ordered by calling Miriam E. Costilow at 580.326.1618.

Reservations for Decadent Desserts with Erica Thomas are due by Monday, Jan. 12, 2009.