Theatre
Since
Brent Carter left Tower of Power in August 2000, his life has taken an interesting,
yet perhaps predictable shift in direction, as he has returned to the foundation
of his career--the theatre. Oh, it's true that Brent is a remarkable vocalist
with a commanding stage presence, but perhaps one of Brent's most endearing attributes
as lead vocalist for a national band was his interaction with the audience and
his easy-going, natural feel for the stage--talents all perfected in a lifetime
in the theatre.
His superb ability as a vocalist merely enhanced his already seasoned skills as an actor. Brent attended the prestigious Performing Arts High School of New York with classmates like Wesley Snipes and Esai Morales (the precinct lieutenant in episodes of TV's NYPD Blue). Here he studied acting and honed his skills in the theatre. But as you well know, life leads us in ways we did not intend to go.
So Brent's career in acting would take an unexpected turn when, early on, he landed the role of Gabriel in Broadway's Shenandoah. His rich, melodious voice attracted attention, and before long he had performed at the world renowned Apollo Theater in Harlem, garnered a spot on The Arsenio Hall Show, The Tonight show, and had appeared on Vibe. Soon Carter's voice was in demand, both in the studio and on the road. He toured with BeBe & CeCe Winans, B.B. King, and Regina Belle, magnificently replacing Peabo Bryson in the A Whole New World duet. Suddenly his talent as a vocalist had taken the forefront.
But
in 2002, Brent settled back into his first love like a hand in a comfortable glove.
Early in the year, he was cast in the lead role of Joseph in Michael Matthews'
gospel production of Who
Can You Trust? The successful stage play, featuring a number of
well-known career actors in television and the big screen, enjoyed a four-month
run throughout the eastern half of the United States.
Following a summer hiatus, yet another Michael Matthews gospel drama with Brent as a cast member, Forbidden Fruit, opened in September for a six month appearance run through February 2003. Like the earlier production, it features a number of familiar faces to fans of TV and the movies, quality acting, and great singing.
What lies ahead? Only the future will tell. But whatever the case, you can be sure that Brent Carter will always be in the spotlight wherever his travels and his career may take him!
TOP: Brent on stage with BernNadette Stanis. BOTTOM: With distinguished actor James Avery.
Photo credits: Brent Carter archives.