By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices

'American Idol' may be announcing its new champ this week, but one of the show's most popular winners continues her winning streak.

Not only has Fantasia Barrino revitalized the box-office of the Oprah Winfrey-blessed Broadway musical 'The Color Purple,' she is picking up awards along the way.

Though her surprisingly exceptional performance as the faith-depraved lead character Celie isn't eligible for a coveted Tony Award, the High Point, North Carolina native will be honored with another prestigious honor.

She's the recipient of a 2006-07 Theatre World Award, which honor performers making their first major New York stage appearance (Broadway or Off-Broadway debuts).

She joins other theater world newcomers Bill Nighy ('The Vertical Hour'), Nilaja Sun ('No Child... ') and Lin-Manuel Miranda ('In the Heights') for their respective works.

The 63rd annual awards ceremony will be held at an invitation-only event at New World Stages in New York City June 5.

Only 12 awards bestowed, and are traditionally presented by former award winners.

While the billionaire media mogul visited The Big Apple last weekend, she took in the sights of sounds of Barrino's Broadway debut.

From the looks of the photo (taken backstage) it seems like she's quite pleased.

And the critics agree.

'New York Times'' Charles Isherwood called Fantasia "so terrific that this earnest but mechanical musical is more effective and affecting than it was when it yawned open a year and a half ago at the Broadway Theater."

'Associated Press' drama critic Michael Kuchwara was equally vociferous, saying her portrayal of Celie gives the production "new heart, soul and star power."

"And Fantasia knows how to let loose, particularly in her final number of affirmation, 'I'm Here.' It pretty much brings down the house, earning cheers and a few tears," he continued.

In his review for the 'New York Daily News,' Joe Dziemianowicz, said that "Fantasia gives such a powerful performance in her Broadway debut that it's almost, to borrow a lyric from the show, 'too beautiful for words.'"

So 'Purple's' lead producer Scott Sanders really was onto something when he envisioned this.

Fantaisa Barrino in 'The Color Purple' is the best ticket in town.

It's truly something worth seeing, whether you are seasoned theatergoer or a novice.

There is a special offer to encourage interested theatergoers to experience Fantasia in 'The Color Purple.' When you buy two tickets to see the performance now through June 30, you will receive a $50 gift certificate to some of Harlem's most popular restaurants including the black-owned Amy Ruth's, new hot-spot Melba's, and the legendary Sylvia's.

At some of the Broadway-area restaurants, fifty smackaroos won't do much justice. But in Harlem, $50 can go a long way.

By mentioning special promotional codes CP8DINE (through Telecharge at 212-947-8844) or promotional code CP82DINE (through the website www.broadwayoffers.com), customers can enjoy a great meal in the historical cultural mecca known the world over as Harlem. For more information, log onto www.experienceharlem.com.