The music of Diana Ross has been a source of inspiration for most of Deanna Carroll’s life.
“I have been a fan since I was a young girl,” said Carroll, who will bring the music of the legendary performer to the Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center Oct. 7 in Lady Supreme: A Diana Ross Experience. “I had a hairbrush microphone, and I was always putting on shows for my family.”
Those early, impromptu living room shows launched Carroll on a path to her own career in music. Some of the gigs she landed included performing backup vocals for other tribute artists and that gave Carroll an idea of creating her own tribute show.
When COVID hit, Carroll saw it as the perfect time to develop that thought.
“It was a no-brainer to choose Diana,” she said.
With the rest of the world shut down, Carroll began a deep dive into researching the superstar diva who continues to perform into her late 70s. Ross’s ability to stay true to herself and her music all while reinventing herself and remaining relevant is remarkable to Carroll.
She’s also been impressed with Ross as an actor on the big screen in films such as Mahogany. The film’s theme song is one of her favorites to sing as are other of Ross’s ballads.
“It speaks to me,” she said.
Not only will there be music from all eras beginning with her days with the Supremes, but the show also highlights the glitz and glam that only a true diva such as Diana Ross can bring.
It’s an fun-filled, energetic night of hits featuring nine dedicated performers and four costumes changes and the spectacular hair and makeup to complete the look, she said. She’ll also tell stories of Ross’s life in the first person.
“I do my best to emulate her,” Carroll said.
Still a fan, Carroll attended a 2022 Diana Ross concert at New York’s Radio City Music Hall and thought about her portrayal of the superstar as she cheered and shouted from the audience.
“You want to feel like you do justice to the performer,” said Carroll who believes she does.
Lady Supreme: A Diana Ross Experience opens Augusta Amusements 2023-2024 season. Tickets are $42.95.
Diana Ross isn’t the only diva tribute scheduled this season. On the heels of Diana Ross, is a tribute to the legendary Aretha Franklin on Oct. 21 and 22. All Augusta Amusement shows begin at 7:30 p.m.
For tickets to any of the shows, visit Augusta Amusements website or call (706) 726-0366.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News, has covered Augusta’s news for 35 years. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
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