PARIS BENNETT: Ready to 'Sing'

By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices

Last year's 'American Idol' finalist Paris Bennett has a new album and a new movie underway. 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.'