Rice Village Sing-Off

Rice Village District is bringing back their historic Christmas tree lighting on Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 6-8 p.m. The shopping center is putting a modern twist on the holiday event by pairing it with a star-studded a cappella competition inspired by the popular movie franchise, Pitch Perfect.

Emcee of the competition will be famed Dancing with the Stars professional and Emmy-nominated choreographer, Tony Dovolani. Judging the competition is Houston’s own Freddy Cruz of 104.1 KRBE, Chloe Dao of Project Runway and Houston Chronicle Music Critic, Joey Guerra.

Six a cappella groups from across Houston, such as the Rice University Philharmonics and all female group, Six of One, will compete for 1st place. The groups will compete in two rounds and perform a holiday set where they will be scored on song choice, choreography and vocal performance. The Sing-Off will take place in front of the Christmas tree at the corner of University and Morningside Drive. The winner of the competition will get to light the Christmas tree and will receive a donation to their group.

Tickets to the Sing-Off are free, but there is a suggested donation of $10. VIP tickets can be purchased for $50 and ticket holders will partake in a photo opportunity with Tony Dovolani and enjoy the performance from a VIP viewing area. All proceeds from the Rice Village Sing-Off will go to United Way in conjunction with Rice Village’s Make a Difference campaign.