For a fifth grader smaller than most of her classmates, Brandi Alden has big dreams.
But unlike the title of the song that is among the tiny, blue-eyed blonde's favorite Broadway classics, Brandi's dreams of an entertainment career appear anything but impossible.
Since she began entertaining older kids at school bus stops six years ago in her Stratford Forest neighborhood in Cornelius, Brandi's voice and vibrant charisma have carried her to pageant crowns near and far and put her in talent search spotlights from Broadway to Hollywood. And as the 2011 soloist champion in a nationwide talent competition, Brandi's horizons seem endless.
Among the recognition coming her way as the winner of the nation-wide 2011 SING! contest sponsored by the DDR Corporation, Brandi will be honored at an awards reception Monday, Feb. 6, at Birkdale. The reception, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., will conclude a busy day for Brandi.
Earlier in the day, she will introduce Emmy Award-winning singer and songwriter Kevin Briody to her classmates at J.V. Washam Elementary. She will also have the chance to join Briody in performing for the student body, take part in the presentation of a $5,000 donation to Levine's Children's Hospital and participate in a private lesson with Briody at Creative Ej in Kenton Place.
The opportunity to work with Briody and the contribution to the children's hospital are part of Brandi's prize package as the 2011 SING! winner. The 11-year-old daughter of Rich and Linda Alden will also receive $2,500 in gift cards for purchases at DDR-owned facilities.
It's an exciting time for Brandi, but it's also just another milestone along what she hopes will be a path to the Great White Way and beyond. Participation in multiple pageants — evidenced by a purple and gold pre-teen bedroom lined with championship trophies, tiaras and sashes — has provided Brandi public speaking experience; a bright, big-stage smile and a show-biz persona that radiates from her tiny frame. And with the family dog Bandit snoozing at her side, Brandi doesn't hesitate to share her goals.
"I really hope to get an agent and get a call back for Annie," she says, referring to her status as an often sought-after auditioner for the classic Broadway role.
A by-invitation-only convention in Orlando this summer will provide Brandi the opportunity to showcase her talents for influential agencies with representatives who are already aware of her many achievements.
