Students from Chapel Hill and Dorsett Shoals elementary schools recently enjoyed a magical 
surprise from award-winning actress Anika Noni Rose, best known as the voice of Tiana in the Disney movie, “The Princess and the Frog.” In support of the “Page Turners Make Great Learners” initiative aimed at helping kids capture the joy of reading, Disney’s first-African American princess inspired students with her charm and grace, sharing her latest book, “Tiana’s Perfect Plan.”
Rose’s unexpected visit brought excitement to young readers as they filled the gym anxiously awaiting her message of inspiration.
Principal Bianca Turner was thrilled to welcome Rose to Chapel Hill Elementary and expressed heartfelt gratitude for her gracious visit.
“We were honored to have the opportunity to host Mrs. Anika Noni Rose at Chapel Hill Elementary," Turner said. "We appreciate her taking time out of her busy schedule to visit and encourage a love of reading and writing with our students. It was a great experience for all!”
In the 2006 Academy Award-winning musical "Dreamgirls," Rose starred as Lorrell Robinson and
contributed to the film’s soundtrack, earning her a Grammy Award nomination. In recognition of her captivating theatre performances, she received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a musical. The 2011 Disney Legend has also been honored as Outstanding Supporting Actress in a TV Movie or Mini-Series and is the recipient of the Lucille Lortel, Theatre World, Obie, and Clarence Derwent awards.
Rose launched her Page Turner Tour for "Tiana’s Perfect Plan" on October 20. According to the Page Turners website, over the past 12 years, “Page Turners Make Great Learners” has helped kids in Title I schools embrace the love of reading through read-a-thons, book clubs and book donation drives. The mission is to expand children’s knowledge and understanding of the world, themselves and their unique possibilities through a love of reading.
Additional celebrity authors who have supported this impactful initiative include 12-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Chris Paul, as well as professional hockey player and activist Akim Aliu.