Church Tradition Takes an Unexpected Turn at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center
illi News/10343140

DETROIT - illiNews -- Detroit, MI–Detroit-based playwright, producer, Vanessa Lynn proudly announces the Parables Entertainment 20th Anniversary limited run of PRINCE of the PULPIT, a musical exploring faith, legacy, leadership, and family tradition. The production will take place September 19–20, 2026 at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, commemorating two decades of Parables Entertainment—"Entertainment with HEART since 2006."

Synopsis: For forty years, Solid Ground Church has stood firm under the leadership of Bishop Aaron Baxter. As he prepares to retire, he appoints Minister Jordan Sanders as his successor—supported by his fiancée, worship leader Noelle. But everything changes when Trent Baxter, the church's 'prodigal' son, returns home to claim his birthright, challenge Jordan's appointment, and rekindle the romance with his childhood sweetheart, Noelle.

The congregation fractures over its future leadership, setting in motion what every church prays will never happen: a church split that pushes Solid Ground to the brink of collapse.

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PRINCE of the PULPIT stars professional runner and entertainer DeLorean Cotton, Marcus Woods (Empire, TV One's Fatal Attraction), and Grammy-nominated songwriter Johdi Jackson, with Bishop Bruce Parham (Call on Jesus, Hide Me), DeEtta West (Kirk Franklin's A Gospel Christmas, The Piano Lesson), and special guest Dennis L.A. White (Notorious, BET's The Family Business). Directed by Richard Bass (Chocolate Kiss I & II), the production features original music by Dr. Kenneth Wilson and is hosted by Ecorse City Clerk and vocalist Dr. Kim Whitsett.

Vanessa Lynn is a producer, dramatist, and founder of Urban Playwrights United, an organization that provides education, resources, and opportunities for underrepresented artists. Seen on TV One, Fox, and CBS, she's the writer of the nationally touring play Deranged, whose cast has included noted entertainers Robin Givens, Malik Yoba, Clifton Powell, and Keith Washington. Her nationally distributed plays Unequally Yoked, Affairs, and Boss Lady reached Walmart stores nationwide.

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"This was the most hilarious, most tear-jerking, most emotionally charged story I have ever experienced." ~Larry Robinson, President of God's World Music Superstore (attended staged reading).

PRINCE of the PULPIT will be presented for three performances only at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, located at 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI.

Saturday, September 19, 2026
1:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.

Sunday, September 20, 2026
3:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $49 to $69. Tickets may be purchased through Parables Entertainment www.getplaytickets.com, at God's World, 13533 W. Seven Mile Road in Detroit, or by calling 586-648-0002.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/parablesent
YouTube Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P46ZwPgspn4