If you're in step with the world of contemporary dance, you'll know the name of Michaela DePrince, one of the stars in the 2011 documentary First Position, the youngest dancer in the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 2012 and a dancer featured in Beyoncé's "Hope" from her GRAMMY-winning album Lemonade. Now none other than Madonna will be directing a biopic based on her life.
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The film is based on DePrince's 2014 memoir, Taking Flight: From War Orphan To Star Ballerina, which sheds light on her career journey. The Sierra Leone-born dancer spent a difficult childhood in her native country as an orphan before being adopted by U.S. parents. Since then she's built an impressive résumé while serving as the inspiration for millions of young women.
In addition to direction by Madonna, Camilla Blackett ("Fresh Off The Boat," "New Girl") will write the film's screenplay.
Directing isn't new for the "Material Girl." She made her directorial debut with 2008's Filth And Wisdom, which she followed with a turn in the director's chair for 2011's W.E.
"Michaela's journey resonated with me deeply as both an artist and an activist who understands adversity," Madonna said, according to Billboard. "We have a unique opportunity to shed light on Sierra Leone and let Michaela be the voice for all the orphaned children she grew up beside. I am honored to bring her story to life."
