The second annual competition allows Broadway performers the chance to show off their rock 'n' roll chops. Last year's winning band was Old Springs Pike, led by Spring Awakening Tony Award winner John Gallagher, Jr. This year's battle will begin at 10:30 PM at the Zipper Factory.

Competing for the title will be Anthony Rapp and his band Albinokid (David Matos, Pete Asirisi, Paul Gil and Dan Weiss); Kyle Jarrow (Hostage Song) and his band The Fabulous Entourage (Travis Chamberlain, Libby Winters, Perry Silver and Jimmy Owens); singer/songwriter Kacie Sheik (sister to Tony Award winner Duncan Sheik); Chester Gregory II (Cry-Baby) and his band Ancestree (Dave Cook, Deonte' Larry, D-Flat, Phil, Big C and Romel Veal); and Striking Twelve creators Groovelily (Valerie Vigoda, Brendan Milburn, and Gene Lewin).

Making a guest appearance will be former Spring Awakening cast member Lauren Pritchard, who will perform selections from her forthcoming album for Sony/BMG Records.

The May 17 concert kicks off NYMF's Next Link Launch Party Weekend, which includes seminars and work sessions to aid participants in gearing up for the fifth annual season of NYMF, running Sept. 15-Oct. 5.

Tickets, priced $20, are available by calling (212) 352-3101 or by visiting www.nymf.org. The Zipper Factory is located in Manhattan at 336 West 37th Street.