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DeLand native Andre Darby continues to climb his ladder of success by pouring his talents and interests into the music industry and beyond.
Darby, son of Bishop James and Frances Darby, is one of six children devoted to the West Volusia community.
He is the brother of multiplatinum-selling and Grammy Award-winning star Terence Trent D’Arby.
Andre Darby is a nominated playwright and recording artist, who is currently nominated for a 2019 Kingdom Image Award in the category of Best Male Vocalist. The award ceremony will be Saturday, Oct. 12, in Columbus, Ohio.
Often found performing on stages and capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide, Andre never forgets his hometown of DeLand and gives back to Volusia County as much as he can.
He has recorded two albums and currently has a single out called “Breathe,” which can be found on all digital outlets under the name Andre Javan.
Andre has shared the stage with such talents as New Edition, Johnny Gill, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary and more! Though he is currently a resident of Palm Coast, he will forever call DeLand home, and he still serves as a music director at his father’s local assembly, Greater Refuge Church of Our Lord in DeLand.
In addition to his musical talents, Andre has been a playwright for six years. He got his first break acting in 2010 when he landed the leading role in a play called Tell Hell I Ain’t Comin’ that toured Europe. Since then, he has gone on to act in many other major productions.
“In 2012, I decided to pen my very first play, A Journey to Redemption, which was performed at the Athens Theatre in DeLand,” Andre said.
Later followed My Prodigal Child, My Prodigal Child, The Sequel and, now, Strawberry Letter.
Strawberry Letter (When Love Hurts So Bad) is the story of a wife who gives up her career to support her husband, a former NFL football player.
Her life to many seems picture-perfect, until she finds herself facing the ultimate betrayal of deceit, infidelity and a battle with breast cancer. She now stands in the valley of decision, either to walk in her power or fold to her pain.
The cast includes many local talents such as Andre himself, along with LaKesia Muhammad, Latrecia Kennedy, Da’Mon Hinson, Althea Chavers, Stephanie Corley, Keith Clark and internationally known actor Miguel A. Nunez Jr. (Juwanna Mann, Lethal Weapon 3, Friday the 13th, Martin and more).
Andre has come home once again to showcase this play at the DeLand High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5. Doors open at 6 p.m.
For more information or to purchase tickets, email to platinumworkz@yahoo.com or call 1-404-836-0430.
— Cameron, a longtime educator, lives in Orange City. Send email to cameronchronicleslive@gmail.com.
