Mezzo-soprano Steph-anie Blythe will present her cabaret performance of music by American icon Kate Smith.

The show, "We'll Meet Again: The Songs of Kate Smith," 8 p.m. Sept. 22, Symphony Hall, Allentown, features Blythe accompanied by pianist Craig Terry.

"The show is a tribute to the great American singer Kate Smith. It is not an impersonation show," says Blythe. "I don't pretend to be Kate Smith or try to sing like Kate Smith."

In addition to the songs, Blythe offers background and biographical material about Kate Smith.

"These songs are mostly from the beginning of her career, and then telling the audience about her and her life, how her career developed and talking about the songs themselves," says Blythe of the show.

When asked why she chose to do a Kate Smith-themed show, Blythe says, "She was an amazing figure not just in music but in American culture. She galvanized the nation during a very difficult time: World War II."

Blythe feels that the music of Kate Smith brought a sense of unity to the American citizens.

"People became part of a community because they were listening to the same thing at the same time. That is one of the most important things about her," she says.

Blythe elaborates further on Kate Smith's contributions to America. "She was an incredible philanthropist. She was a muse for Irving Berlin as I am sure she was a muse for many composers and lyricists.

"The story of her life and how her career unfolded is remarkable. It is something that is a wonderful and real American success story," Blythe says. "I think if there is any time our nation needs to be reminded of its greatness it is now."

Blythe previously performed her Kate Smith show three times: in New York; at the Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, Il; and Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, Great Barrington, Mass.

"My pianist Craig Terry and I have a magnificent time performing this. It's a fun concert," Blythe says.

Of her pianist, Blythe says, "Craig Terry is just brilliant. He's a monster on the piano and he also has the most marvelous personality. Performing with him is heaven. We have a very good time doing this show and I think people will really like it.

"For people that are new to this singer, it will be informative. For people who are aware of Kate Smith and who remember these songs, it will be a lovely hour and a half of nostalgia."