By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices
Will art imitate life for last year's 'American Idol' hopeful Paris Bennett?
Maybe.
'MTV Radio Networks' is reporting that the 17-year-old vocal powerhouse is prepping for her film debut.
"It's gonna be from an Off-Broadway play 'Mama, I Want to Sing' and they are in the works of creating a movie screenplay for it," she revealed. "If it does get shot, it will be shot in April and I'm excited to see it."
In 1983, broadcast veteran Vy Higginson co-wrote, produced and directed the gospel musical, which became a phenomenon and ran for eight consecutive years with over 2,000 performances at East Harlem's Heckscher Theater.
The show's landmark success and gospel infused storyline single-handedly shaped a new generation of theatre-goers and was presented in venues worldwide -- even making a star out of a young, high octave ranging songstress named Desiree Coleman.
The story, which was based on the life and career of soul music pioneer Doris Troy (Higginson's sister) attracted the likes of Chaka Khan to star in its European run.
Bennett herself is from gospel lineage -- Ann Nesby, her grandmother is a founding member and frontwoman for the internationally renowned outfit Sounds of Blackness.
She said she is eager to really absorb the project, which should see the light of day in 2008 and will be reportedly distributed by Fox.
"I am learning about my character, actually the main character in the play is Doris, so I will eventually become her and it will be something crazy to see."
Bennett, who became a fan favorite as one of the Top 12 finalists last year, has plans to release her debut album, titled 'Princess P,' next month. The lead single is titled 'Ordinary Love.'
Comments: (40)
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By: ms_cutiepants on 3/19/2007 8:28AM
I'm glad she's into soething because i think she has an amazing voice. I definetly liked her more that the winner of Idol for that year.(Not to discredit them)
But it's good to know that you don't have to be the winner to go on and achieve great things.
Best of luck to Paris
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By: Deborah M. on 3/19/2007 8:13AM
It's great to finally hear something from Paris. I was disappointed to see her voted off American Idol. She has one of those voices that gives you chills. I've been anxiously awaiting to hear the direction her life has taken. I went to see the play, Mama I Want to Sing and it was fantastic. I'll definitely check out the movie if it comes to fruitation, and I will definitely be looking for her CD! Paris, you go girl!
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By: Felicia A. Goodwin on 3/19/2007 8:13AM
I saw the play years ago and let me say I heard some of thee best gospel music ever.
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By: DOROTHY H on 3/19/2007 8:22AM
CONGRATULATIONS PARIS, I WAS JUST TALKING TO MY KIDS ABOUT U LAST WEEK AND SAID I CANT BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVENT MADE A CD AND LOW AND BEHOLD . I KNOW U WILL GO FAR AND LIFE JUST REMEMBER GOD HAS A BLESSING WITH YOUR NAME ON IT . LOVE DOT AND KIDS IN DALLAS TX
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By: Maria on 3/19/2007 8:17AM
Paris Bennett God bless you and that wonderful voice you were born with. I will definetly support all your upcoming projects in music and acting and I have no doubt that you will be sucessful beyound your wildess dream. I am so proud of Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barino and you Paris Bennett.
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By: Erin on 3/19/2007 9:15AM
I admit she is a talented young lady. But my goodness she is annoying. She was the reason I stopped watching AI that season. She is just too much. Nonetheless, I wish here well. She has good voice though not my taste. But, and if someone can calm her down and remove some of the bubbly from her, she would be ok. BEST TO YOU!
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By: Miss Nickey on 3/19/2007 5:46PM
Yea Im happy 4 Parris, doesnt it seem like all the ones that dont make it on AI are doin it big so maybe the damn judges dont knw what they be doin. Congrats 2 u Paris and god bless.
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By: Bennie Gaines on 3/19/2007 10:19AM
It is a Blessing to see young Blk women riding on the skrit tail of their grandmother. keep up th good work,stay faithful. and remember it is all about Him.w/much love
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By: Brenda on 3/19/2007 8:09PM
My cousin starred as "Mama" in this play back in the 80's and this play has such a great storyline and will be a great adapation for the big screen. I am glad that are taking some of the greatest stage performances and but them on the screen given a chance for those non-broadway play goers a chance to see or a glimpse of what they have missed. Although, nothing takes the place of a stage play it's nice to see. As long, as they stay true to script and think this one you wouldn't want to miss.
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By: Brenda on 3/19/2007 8:09PM
My cousin starred as "Mama" in this play back in the 80's and this play has such a great storyline and will be a great adapation for the big screen. I am glad that are taking some of the greatest stage performances and but them on the screen given a chance for those non-broadway play goers a chance to see or a glimpse of what they have missed. Although, nothing takes the place of a stage play it's nice to see. As long, as they stay true to script and think this one you wouldn't want to miss.
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