Vocalist Judith Owen and her husband, actor and humorist Harry Shearer, announce the 18th annual Christmas Without Tears Benefit. This holiday celebration will take place on Tuesday, December 19th, at 8 p.m. at the historic Orpheum Theater in New Orleans, Louisiana. All proceeds from the event will go to the Innocence Project New Orleans, a non-profit organization dedicated to freeing innocent people sentenced to life in prison and those serving unjust sentences.

The Christmas Without Tears Benefit, initially a cozy gathering in the Shearer’s and Owen’s Santa Monica home, has evolved into a heartwarming house party around the piano, involving fellow performers and audience members alike. This year’s event promises to be a spectacular evening filled with music, laughter, and special guests, all in the name of supporting a good cause.

The event features both invited performers and surprise guests who join Harry and Judith on stage for an intimate and entertaining evening. The song selection ranges from the sentimental to the irreverent, creating a true variety show experience. Guest artists for the evening include Brian Batt, Helen Gillet, Phil DeGruy, Samantha Fish, John Goodman, Sonny Landreth, Zachary Richard, Kermit Ruffins, Solid Harmony and Tonya Boyd-Cannon with more to be added.

Judith Owen’s recent album, Come On & Get It, has received widespread critical acclaim. Recorded at Esplanade Studios in NOLA, the album pays homage to the jazz music of pioneering women like Julia Lee, Blossom Dearie and Nellie Lutcher.

Harry Shearer, known for his roles in The Simpsons and Spinal Tap, has had a multifaceted career as an actor, comedian, writer, musician, radio host, director and producer. He has been an artist in residence at Loyola University, New Orleans since 2013.

Learn more about Owen’s new holiday album Winter Wonderland here.  Get tickets for this festive and fun event here.