NATCHEZ — An old showbiz saying advises performers not to work with dogs or children.

The saying, however, does not advise against performing for dogs and children and that is exactly what local musician, piano tuner and restorer Burnley Cook said he plans to do Sunday afternoon.

Cook will get behind the piano at 2 p.m. Sunday at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 130 Homochitto St., and let the music flow from his fingertips to the ivory keys and emit whatever music flows through him, he said.

That music could be jazz, blues, ragtime or Broadway tunes, Cook said. It also could include some Don Mclean or Billy Joel.

In addition to the music, Cook said he plans to recreate the comedy magic act of Clarence Ferguson, aka “Clarence the Magician,” who used to perform the act in town.

“Hopefully that will bring a great interest to bring in a bunch of kids,” Cook said.

The event will be free of charge to anyone who wants to attend, but Cook asks that anyone who is able bring donations for the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society. “It is to raise not only awareness but also to raise materials,” Cook said, “because the shelter is always in need.”

The shelter’s ongoing needs include dry dog food, dry and wet puppy food, dry and wet kitten food, cat litter, paper towels, newspapers, toys, new or gently used linens, Dawn dish detergent, bleach, sanitizing wipes, scrub sponges and Walmart gift cards.

“If somebody really wants to bring checks or something,” Cook said, “make them out to NACHS — Natchez-Adams County Humane Society.”

Lena McKnight, Natchez-Adams County Humane Society executive director, said she is looking forward to Cook’s performance.

“It is going to be a really fun date day to bring the kids or the family for a good cause,” McKnight said, “I’m excited about the music.”

Natchez Democrat photographer Nicole Hester contributed to this report.