SUMMERVILLE, S.C. – Summerville residents are warming up their vocal cords for the return of ‘Lowcountry Sings’, a unique karaoke competition that’s not just about singing—it’s also about giving back. Now in its second year, the event offers participants the chance to step into the spotlight while raising money to improve the town’s parks and playgrounds.
Organized by Summerville DREAM, the competition benefits the Summerville Parks Foundation, a group dedicated to supporting and enhancing public spaces across the community.
Sing for a Cause
“All the money that we raise goes in to help build better parks and playgrounds and activities for people here in Summerville,” said Steven Doniger, executive director of Summerville DREAM. “The town gives us a list of things that are important or things that they need in their capital fund, and we help work on those.”
This community-driven effort ensures that every dollar raised goes directly into projects that make Summerville more enjoyable for families, kids, and visitors alike.
How the Competition Works
The event is broken into two main phases:
Video Submissions – Participants submit a performance video online by July 31st.
Voting – Community members vote on their favorite submissions for $1 per vote, and the top vote-getters move on to the live finale.
“It’s a fun way to let the community decide who they want to see perform live, and it raises funds at the same time,” said Doniger.
The Live Finale: August 22 at a New Venue
The live event will take place on August 22nd at the Rollins Edwards Community Center—a new, larger venue chosen to better accommodate the growing crowd and performers.
“We wanted a little larger dance floor, a little larger performance area. It’ll hold a lot more people,” Doniger explained.
The finale will feature performances from the top contestants, with two winners announced at the end: one selected by a panel of judges, and another chosen by audience votes.
A Returning Winner Joins the Judges
Ashley Rogers, who won last year’s People’s Choice Award, returns this year as a guest judge and performer. She’ll sing one song and offer her expertise to help choose the next standout singer.
“I want to enjoy the experience on the other side of the desk and just watch everybody,” she said. “Can you sing? Can you carry a tune? That’s important… but are you having fun? Are you engaging the crowd?”
For Rogers, the event is more than just a talent show—it’s a way to connect and contribute.
“I had enough people who supported me and therefore supported the Summerville Parks Foundation… and it gives back to Summerville. That’s kind of my mantra, is just to give back.”
Celebrating Community Through Music
Last year’s event attracted hundreds of attendees and raised thousands of dollars for the parks foundation. This year, organizers hope to exceed that total.
“We do celebrate everyone who participates,” said Doniger. “But the big winner is Summerville parks.”
‘Lowcountry Sings’ brings music, energy, and community pride together for a great cause. Whether you’re performing, voting, or just attending the final event, your involvement helps shape better public spaces for all of Summerville to enjoy. With every song and every dollar, the community sings louder and stands stronger—one vote, and one note, at a time.
