Anika Noni Rose

Biography: Anika Noni Rose was born on September 6th, 1972 in Bloomfield, CT. Her first experience with acting took place in high-school when she help a part in a production of "Fame". After graduating from high school in 1990, Rose attended Florida A&M University and earned a degree in Theater. She also earned her M.F.A. from the American Conservatory Theater in 1998. Rose's first big acting break occurred in 1998 when she secured a part in the Broadway production of "Footloose". Her next role in 2001 in "Eli's Comin" won her critical acclaim. Although she received praise from the critics, the roles were not lucrative enough to provide financial stability. However, in 2003 se secured a role in the 2003 musical "From Justin to Kelly". This musical was a box office disaster but did provide some much needed income. In 2004, Rose secured a role in "Caroline, or Change" as Emmie Thibodeaux. This musical was set in Louisiana in the 1960s and Rose's character was the daughter of a black maid. Her beautiful portrayal of Emmie earned Rose the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. This performance and award opened up the door for Rose to be cast as the third Dreamette, Lorrell Robinson, in the screen adaptation of "Dreamgirls" (2006).… Expand