NATCHEZ — The Natchez Opera Guild is hosting its annual membership party in hopes of drumming up more interested members to join the guild.

Rena Jean Schmieg, president of the Natchez Opera Guild said this is the year to join the guild since many activities have already been planned and even more are in the works.

“I’ve got (the group) this year and we are doing things,” she said. “It doesn’t do any good if you just pay your dues and don’t hear from anyone.”

The group is planning a January trip to New Orleans to see famous tenor Placido Domingo in concert. A gala for Dr. Donald Killelea will be on Dec. 5.

“He is one of Natchez’s most loved citizens and a great supporter of the music festival,” Schmieg said. “It is just appropriate that we do something wonderful for him.

Friday’s event is from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. Friday night at Holly Hedges, 214 Washington St. Holly Hedges is the home of Alan Kocheck and one of the earliest antebellum homes in Natchez.

Kocheck’s collection of antiques and vintage automobiles will be on display throughout the evening. Musical entertainment will be provided by Joe Stone.

Membership cards and committee sign up sheets will be available at the event. People can also sign up for the Placido Domingo trip during the membership party.

Those unable to attend the Friday night event but still interested in joining the guild can mail membership information and dues to P.O. Box 1562, Natchez, MS 39121.

The Natchez Opera Guild is a major fundraising organization for the Natchez Festival of Music, which is every May. The group plans and executes several fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for the festival but they also arrange accommodations and prepare meals for performers in the festival.

“We are the people that put together a lot of the fundraisers,” Schmieg said. “We do a lot of the dirty work.”

But the hard work is worth it when May rolls around and the festival line up is filled with world renowned performers, she said.

“We are just amazingly blessed to get the type of performers here that we do,” Schmieg said. “People can’t believe what type of talent we have come here.”

Membership fees are $20 for a single adult, $10 for a single youth, $30 for a couple and $40 for a family.

“One of my main goals as president is to involve the entire community,” Schmieg said. “I want everyone to be able to participate. We are actively trying to reach out to the entire community.

“If you pay $20 in membership, you get $45 in freebies and discounts.”