The Princess Theatre for the Performing Arts has announced bookings for its 2012-2013 season, including seven touring arts events in a professional series as well as a variety of special events.

The lineup of artists begins Thur., Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. with a return appearance by Interna-tional Bluegrass Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year Dailey & Vincent.

This is one of the hottest new acts in bluegrass. Comedian Henry Chop brings his “Funny But Clean Comedy Tour” for the first time to the Princess stage on Nov. 15. The season continues with the “Sing-a-Long a Sound of Music” on Dec. 8 with a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical, complete with subtitles for a sing along, emcee and Parade of costumed audience members.

A special night of hit songs from the Billboard Pop, gospel and country charts performed by the artists themselves—John Ford Coley, Lenny LeBlanc and Marty Raybon happens on Dec. 10. The Purple Heart Behind the Music Songwriter’s Showcase is an up close and personal look into the heart behind such hit songs as “Nights Are Forever Without You” and “Above All.”

In 2013 the Princess kicks off Downtown Decatur’s Marti Gras celebration with a concert and party by Les Kerr and the Bayou Band on Feb. 8. Expect the rollicking Marti Gras standards “When The Saints Go Marching In” and “Marti Gras Mambo.” The legendary bluegrass band, The Del McCoury Band, performs on Feb. 14 in a Valentine tribute to Bill Monroe.

The New Shanghai Circus, a troupe of Chinese acrobats, will perform their astounding acts that date back 2,000 years ago on Feb. 21.

A variety of other special events will include the 2nd annual Rotary Family Movie Night on Dec. 3, featuring the classic holiday movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” On Jan. 25, the annual Classical Blues Cabaret features blues guitarist Microwave Dave, classical guitarist Phil Weaver, pianist Ingrid Von Spakovsky and Ken Watters on trumpet in a unique experience that blends the blues, classical music and creative innovation. The 20th annual Big Band Bash showcases the best jazz bands from schools and other Alabama big bands on Apr. 19. The new fundraiser and plant sale weekend Petals for the Princess returns on April 12-13 and the 3rd annual River City Film Festival is set for April 26-27. Classic movies, the Civil War Initiative and lectures will be scheduled throughout the season.

Season ticket sales are now available at the Princess Theatre box office with single ticket sales beginning Sept. 24. For more information, call 256-340-778 or visit the Princess website.