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Internationally admired Welsh singer/songwriter Judith Owen's next stop on her current cross-country American tour will be Sellersville Theater.

Considering Owen’s popular and critical acclaim, her appearance at Sellersville is exciting news in itself. However, there is much, much more to entice potential visitors to the upcoming show.

Owen will be just one of the many talented women who will tantalize visitors' senses through music and visual art. The theater will also delight visitors' sense of taste with an offering of wine and cheese before the show. It's all part of "Wine, Women and Song," an unofficial celebration of womanhood being offered by the local theater for the second time.

"We had the first one last year and it was very successful," said Suzanne Loverdi, public relations director for the theater.
"It was just a crazy idea," Loverdi continued, "and it turned out to be a fantastic night.

"We decided that we wanted one night to feature talented women, give them the spotlight somehow. 'Wine, Women and Song' turned out to be a wonderful way to do just that," Loverdi said.

And the women deserve the attention. Even the hostess of the on-stage festivities, Annie Haslam, has an impressive resume. A native of England and now a Bucks County resident, Haslam's professional career included her role as lead singer of the popular 1970s rock band Renaissance. In addition to introducing the musical artists, Haslam will present her oil paintings, described as 'dream expression-ism.'

Along with Owen, Lucy Kaplansky and Lizanne Knott will grace the stage. Kaplansky's journey to the stage has been intriguing. She gave up a prominent position at a New York hospital to pursue her first love - music. She has recorded her own albums, collaborated in others and done commercials. The New Yorker described Kaplansky as "a truly gifted performer with a bag full of enchanting songs." A longtime member of the Philadelphia music scene, Lizanne Knott is known for her smooth voice, depth and a unique talent for musical juxtapositions.

Owen's performance, however, is expected to be the highlight of the evening.

The Los Angeles Times described the recent Owen album "Happy This Way" as "whip smart, soulfully cool and deeply introspective."

The Washington Post said the album "is the latest reminder of Owens' rare talent for effortlessly crossing genres," adding, "her alluring vocals are a gift that keeps on giving."

Owen is equally respected for her wit as well as her musical ability. She excels at singing about her experiences as a British youth and as a more worldly married adult (her husband is well known actor/writer/satirist Harry Shearer). She's also a storyteller, delineating her everyday observations.

Jazz singer Cassandra Wilson called Owen "one of the most passionate, mesmerizing, thoroughly creative vocal artists on the scene today."

"She is a very accomplished singer and songwriter," said Loverdi of Owen, who has appeared at the Sellersville Theater in the past. "She has a great voice, but she also has a dry and charming Welsh wit. She is the full package," said Loverdi.

"Wine, Women & Song," featuring Judith Owen, Lucy Kaplansky & Lizanne Knott & hosted by Annie Haslam, takes place at Sellersville Theater 1894, Main St. & Temple Ave., Sellersville, Pa., 18960, Friday, Aug. 24, 7 p.m. with wine & cheese reception; concert begins at 8 p.m. Tickets: $19.50. Info: 215-257-5808 or www.st94.com.