FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Lucinda Williams will perform in concert at 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, at the Walton Arts Center. The concert will honor her father, Miller Williams, the internationally recognized poet and author. All proceeds from the event will be used to endow the Miller Williams Poetry Prize at the University of Arkansas Press.

Country music Hall of Fame member Charlie Louvin will be the opening artist.

Miller Williams was born in the north Arkansas hills in 1930 and educated in the sciences. He has authored more than 25 books and won numerous awards for his poetry but is perhaps best known for reading a poem at President Clinton’s 1997 inauguration. He taught poetry and literature at the University of Arkansas, where he helped develop the graduate level Creative Writing and Translation Program. He is currently professor emeritus of literature at the university. Williams was the first director of the University of Arkansas Press, where he established its place in the field of contemporary poetry.

Lawrence Malley, current director of the University Press, said he envisions that the Miller Williams Poetry Prize will go to one of four finalists chosen from a pool of manuscripts the Press accepts during its open submission period in September and October of each year. The winner will receive a cash prize as well as publication of the submission.

Lucinda Williams grew up in Fayetteville. She has recorded nine albums and won three Grammy awards. Her most recent album, West, was released in February.

Charlie Louvin is a country music legend, both as a member of the Louvin Brothers in the 1950s and early 60s, and for a solo career that continues today. His most recent album, Charlie Louvin, includes duets with artists including George Jones, Elvis Costello, Marty Stuart and Jeff Tweedy.

Ticket prices for the concert are $250, $100, $65 and $35. In order to purchase tickets, call Walton Arts Center's box office at (479) 443-5600.