A guitarist who has written songs for Widespread Panic and Ray Charles will perform at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center in Highlands.

Phil Roy’s show is billed as “Hope in a Hopeless World,” and is a benefit for the leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Roy is a singer/songwriter from Philadelphia who has written songs over the past 15 years for names including Widespread Panic, Ray Charles, Joe Cocker and The Neville Brothers. The performance was organized by Dave Linn of Macon County after learning a close friend was diagnosed with leukemia.

Tickets are $20. A special “Meet Phil Roy” featuring cocktails and dessert will be held at Old Edwards Inn & Spa Hummingbird Lounge. The private event is limited to 20 people. Roy will talk about his famous songs and why and who he wrote them for, as well as give another private concert. The cost is $50 and includes a performance ticket.

A silent auction will be held before the performance

Tickets can be purchased day of the event or will call at Highlands PAC. 828.526.9047.