Officially Jaida Benjamin

Coca-Cola Unlock Happiness Branded Video w/ We The Kings

2011-12-26T20:47:00.002-05:00

We The Kings Branded Content from Craig Bland on Vimeo.

Jaida "Rocks The Runway" for Elle VJ Boutique and T-Line Designs!

2011-01-18T00:20:00.003-05:00

Bananas Pop Productions Sample Work

2010-10-02T11:00:00.003-04:00

Jaida on the cover of "Curls Gone Wild!"

2010-03-31T08:59:00.001-04:00

Become one of Jaida's Fan's on Facebook!

2009-08-04T14:54:00.001-04:00

Jaida-Iman Benjamin on Facebook

Click here for Jaida Benjamin to win her very own Photo Shoot with Teen Vogue!

2009-05-20T00:36:00.010-04:00

Urban Chic Meets Happiness

I would describe my style as free, urban-chic and fast-forward. To me, this outfit is an example of my personality. I decided to pair the dress with the black shoes and the grey belt to make the photo pop & add transition, the dress was hand-made by designer Adrianne Ruffin!

You can also click on the link below to comment on my photo!

http://www.teenvogue.com/contests/photocontests/snapshot2009_submissions/entry22477778?previousId=22477831&nextId=22477734

Thanks!

XOXO

-Jaida

Jaida Benjamin selected to perform with The Broadway Kids

2009-01-19T19:32:00.012-05:00

JAIDA BENJAMIN was most recently seen as July in the 2007-2008 National Broadway tour of Annie. Television/Film credits include documentary “Women of Color in Flight” portraying the young African-American physician and former NASA Astronaut Mae Carol Jemison. Some of her national commercials include Bank of America, Food Lion Grocery Stores, Mueller’s Pasta, Rhodes Furniture, US Department of Health & Human Services and for Nickelodeon/iCarly & AT&T. In 2005-2006, Jaida provided half-time entertainment for the New York Knicks as a “Knicks City Kid” hip-hop dancer. She was one of the select few to perform at the 2006 NBA All-Star Games in Houston, Texas and at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem. For print, her face was seen across the country as an in-store model for Target, and most recently one of 3 winners to “Rock the Runway” for Seventeen Magazine. Jaida has voiced several radio spots for CBS Radio Stations, WPEG-FM & WBAV-FM. Because of her accomplishments & strong character, Jaida won the prestigious title “Girl of the Year” at an American Girl® Fashion Show presented by Deena Knight of Project Bloom. Training includes acting/theatre techniques at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, pre-professional ballet at North Carolina Dance Theatre, gymnastics & competitive cheerleading at International Sports Center/Charlotte All-Stars and vocal training and coaching with Tiffaney Moore of The Natural Voice. She is thrilled and proud to be a Broadway Kid!

Jaida Benjamin's Six Pix for Fashion

2009-01-05T21:10:00.007-05:00

Our Style Star for the month is 14-year-old Jaida Benjamin, an actress and singer with a unique sense of fashion. In this installment, Jaida shares some of her essential style picks, and gives a few tips on how to create a signature look.

1.) Simple-Chic! A pair of jeans & a simple white ruffled top can be completed by simply adding a pair of flats or classy heels. Take Selena Gomez’s style for an example: CLICK

Over-Accessorizing is not the key. A big necklace & big earrings do not in any way complete an outfit; it makes it look cluttered & viewers don’t know which part of your outfit to focus on! Accessories have a way of fooling us on thinking that there’s no limit to their usage, when there is. You don’t need clutters of jewerly on to be a 10!

2.) Pearls. Whether they’re fake or real, long or short, pearls are classy & state a mature, sophisticated & dainty side to everyone. Pearls go well with relaxed, simple or classy looks, so if you’re going for a punk-rock look then adding pearls isn’t recommended.

3.) Huge Scarves! Huge scarves are not only extremely fashionable but the fact that they’re huge gives you leisure to tie them around your neck in many ways!

4.) Light cosmetic looks. Once you cross over to the “teens”, make-up may become a new addiction & addition to your life, but as it’s glamorous & makes anyone look like a new person, you better not let it clog your pores! To stay on the safe side of cosmetics, a simple swish of light blush, long-lasting lip gloss & mascara is usually acceptable to anyone. Too much of anything is not good for you! (The last thing you want is for your parents to become anti-make-up because of your large usage)

Fabulous examples of how make-up should be worn on occasion:

Casual (everyday) cosmetic examples:

When wearing make-up, you also have to make sure you’re using healthy products for your skin that don’t cause acne. It’s tough to find the perfect cosmetic brand for you and your skin, but the search is well worth it for a natural but glamorous & sophisticated look that allows your Inner Beauty to shine through as well.

A few great cosmetics: MAC, NARS, Clinique, Bare Minerals, Benefit, Bare Essentials, Hard Candy, and Sephora. Make-up can be quite expensive, so always start off with a little to save money (such as a lip gloss, a mascara, a blush color), then as time goes by you can buy more. You must also have a good make-up remover, which you can get anywhere (Target, Sephora). Remember: Don’t become a slave to make-up and believe that you must always wear it. To be simple, just a swipe of lip gloss and light mascara can get you far!

5.) Uggs! Now that it’s winter for some of us, Uggs seem to be the main thing flying off shelves. A great pair of warm & comfortable boots for the Winter is critical. They come in a bunch of colors & never go out of style! (Official Site: http://www.uggaustralia.com/index.aspx)

6.) Trench Coats! Trench coats are long, comfortable & completely fashionable. They go perfectly with Uggs & long scarves that I mentioned before. Any color looks great on anyone, so don’t discriminate! Broaden your horizons and go for an unusual yellow or a green. :)

Jaida Benjamin featured in Knicks City Kids 10th Anniversary Celebration

2008-12-14T09:55:00.005-05:00

The Knicks City Kids are the kids of New York. An embodiment of vibrancy and spirit, they are known for their youthful vignettes that act as a magical portal, enticing fans to follow them into a different world — a childhood fantasy come alive. Their sheer joy for play, for camaraderie, for fun, reminds us that if we watch a game through a child's eyes, we will leave with a smile on our face.The KCK are the original NBA kids dance team, celebrating their 10th year performing on the hardwood floor of Madison Square Garden. This gifted group of seven to 14 year olds promises their best, most fantastical performances ever during the 2008-09 season at weekend and holiday games.The Knicks City Kids have also performed their way into the national NBA spotlight. In February 2006, the exuberant KCK performed in Houston, TX during NBA All Star Weekend events as one of the NBA's "Best Practices."Off the court, the Knicks City Kids are heavily involved in the New York community. This year they performed at the Softball Challenge Charity game at Keyspan Park. Between charity performances, private events and press appearances, the KCK bring fun and youthful energy to NBA entertainment and the Knicks Basketball Experience, reminding us that when the final buzzer sounds, win or lose, we are all part of the team.The Knicks City Kids are coached by former Knicks City Dancer, Heather Van Arsdel, and they are under the direction of Manager of Entertainment Marketing, Michelle Harris.

Jaida Benjamin Video | Rocking the Runway for Seventeen Magazine

2008-11-10T10:04:00.001-05:00

Jaida Benjamin | Rocks The Runway for Seventeen Magazine!

2008-11-10T09:08:00.005-05:00

On Saturday, Nov 8th 2008 Jaida competed to "Rock The Runway" for Seventeen Magazine! She and 2 other beautiful young ladies were selected to win their very own Seventeen photoshoot and appear on Seventeen's website! Donnie Klang from P-Diddy's Making The Band performed live & signed autographs!

Jaida Benjamin | Girl of the Year 2008

2008-11-06T08:40:00.001-05:00

Jaida gives her acceptance speech for winning Girl of the Year 2008 at an American Girl Fashion Show sponsored by Project Bloom.

Jaida Benjamin honored as Girl of the Year

2008-11-01T08:00:00.016-04:00

The Assist by Knight Foundation and Project Bloom Salute: Jaida-Iman Benjamin Girl of the Year 2008 Jaida will be honored November 1st, 2008 at: The 1st Annual American Girl Fashion Show Girl of the Year Gala Marriott City Center Charlotte, NC American Girl Fashion Show is a fun-filled event for girls and their families, friends, and favorite dolls! Celebrate the experience of being a girl, whether yesterday or today, through a colorful presentation of historical and contemporary fashions. Enjoy an elegant meal, enter to win door prizes, and learn how clothing has changed over the years to reflect history, culture, and girls’ individual styles.

Jaida on Nickelodeon/iCarly Commercial for AT & T

2008-10-19T09:37:00.001-04:00

"The Orphans" at the Annie Closing Night Party

2008-08-10T17:03:00.000-04:00

The ENTIRE 2007-2008 cast of Annie!

2008-08-10T17:01:00.000-04:00

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Annie On Tour Blog - Hello from Jaida Benjamin (July)

2008-02-16T10:14:00.006-05:00

Hello! My name’s Jaida Benjamin and I play the role of the orphan, July! As hard as it may seem to believe, the reality of this whole process and experience has finally hit me. When I sit and think about this experience, I realize how amazing this experience is! The intensity and work is hard, but I’m glad because this is exactly what I expected and wanted. I love performing and having fun on that stage and there’s never a day when I’m bored with the experience. I look forward to doing a show everyday. I love when the audience gives us a standing ovation. The cast does such an amazing job and the music and choreography is bound to give you goose bumps if you come see our show. Hats off, to the orchestra, as well. What an extraordinary sound they make together and add to the show. And you wouldn’t believe the crew members backstage. They work so hard to make Annie what it is. And I can’t forget to mention my mom…she’s the best chaperone ever!!! Annie is an outstanding production and I’m more than grateful and thank God everyday to be part of this cast.

Check Jaida out on YouTube

2008-02-09T22:59:00.000-05:00

Jaida featured in Charlotte Parent Magazine

2008-02-09T22:36:00.003-05:00

Should You Encourage Your Child to Act? Written by: Angel Rutledge So your daughter went to see “Charlotte’s Web” and decided she wants to be the next Dakota Fanning, or you’ve always thought your son is a natural performer and have wondered if enrolling him in an acting class would be a good idea. Where do you start? The world of acting tends to be more mysterious and difficult to navigate than signing up a child for a season of soccer. If you’ve ever wondered if your youngster has star potential, these tips will help you figure out where to begin. Make Sure Your Child Is Interested in Acting You may think that your child’s personality is perfect for performing on stage, but if she doesn’t get excited about the idea, it’s better not to push her toward it. Take your cues from your youngster. Childhood is a time for kids to try different interests and change their minds many times about their likes and dislikes. So, even if your budding actress displays a love for the stage, don’t be surprised if she decides after a few years that joining the swim team sounds like more fun. Andrea Nasfell is a wise mother who understands this tip. As a screenplay writer living in the acting capital of Los Angeles, it was a natural choice for her to get her daughter Emma (now 5 years old) involved in performing. “It was clear at the start that I had a very social child, and I thought that the auditions would be something for us to do together that would get her used to meeting new people and adjusting to new situations … something I was horrible at as a very shy child.” Since she was 7 months old, Emma has found success in acting through print modeling and onscreen in a national commercial and a couple of films. Despite her daughter’s success, Andrea is taking a wait-and-see approach to Emma’s future as an actress. “While (Emma) has fun doing shoots on occasion, I don’t think she has the desire to be a child star, acting all the time. And it’s important to me that I don’t push her to do something just because I want it or because it helps us save money for her future. For now we’re taking it case by case and we’ll see how far she decides to go.” Expose Your Child to the Local Acting Community There are many options available to children in the Charlotte area to get involved in the performing arts. One of the best places to start is to attend local performances. Kid-friendly productions can be found at The Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Matthews Playhouse and Central Piedmont Community College, just to name a few. Even local schools like Northwest School of the Arts and Charlotte Christian have theater productions that are open to the public and provide an opportunity for kids to see their peers on stage. Whether your child’s interest in acting blossoms or wilts through watching other performers on stage, it will be a great opportunity for your family to enjoy the arts together. Start Small and Go from There After your aspiring actor has watched others on stage, it would be a good idea to get his feet wet by taking an acting class or attending a summer camp. The Children’s Theatre offers classes and camps at several locations. Summer camps with an acting focus are also available through UNC and at some YMCA branches. Many churches also offer opportunities for children to perform onstage through children’s choirs, musicals and theater productions. Often times, it is through these beginning explorations into acting that children find other doors opening up for them. Such was the case for Myers Park High School student Robert Blanton, who had been singing in his church’s choir when he was approached to audition for a role in Central Piedmont Community College’s “The Sound of Music.” The choir teacher at his church also happened to be the choreographer for the musical. When she learned that no suitable actor had been found for the part of Friedrich, she approached Blanton, knowing he was a capable singer. He won the role and went on to perform for CPCC again in “The Wizard of Oz.” Understand the Challenges Whether your child wants to act in local theater or professionally on a national level, it is important to evaluate the sacrifices and obstacles that your child, as well as your whole family, will face along the way. Helping your child learn to face the disappointments of not being chosen for each role she auditions for can be difficult. Charlotte mom Jocinda Benjamin has passed on a healthy perspective to her seventh-grade daughter Jaida about dealing with this type of disappointment. Jocinda says, “We learned very quickly that Jaida will not get every role she auditions for. Many times casting directors have an idea of what they are looking for and it really may not have anything to do with you. It’s all about timing.” They have learned this from personal experience. The first year Jaida tried out for the national tour of “Annie, “she was passed over. But this year, when she went back for a second time, she was awarded a spot on the tour. For parents, there is also the time and financial commitment that must be made if your child is serious about acting. A considerable amount of time must be spent shuttling your child from auditions to practices, not to mention acting or voice lessons she may need along the way. And the costs of headshots, resumes, costumes and lessons do add up. While these costs may deter some, Jocinda Benjamin looks at it like this, “Parents need to consider that everything has a cost and they should treat their child like an investment.” Enjoy the Highlights However far your child decides to delve into acting, there are sure to be many benefits. Padgett Vaughn, a 17-year-old who performed alongside Robert Blanton in “The Sound of Music,” was able to apply what she learned in school about Nazi Germany to her role as the eldest daughter in the musical. Padgett’s mother has also watched her daughter learn to accept a wide range of people from her time spent with cast members on several productions. Because casts are comprised of people of various ages, life experiences and interests, it allows young actors to grow in their appreciation for the characteristics that make people unique. Besides these advantages, acting provides many of the same benefits that team sports do. It helps children build confidence, learn to take direction and receive constructive criticism and develop team-building skills. If your child goes on to act on a professional level, you might even get to enjoy traveling like the Benjamin family has with Jaida in the “Annie” tour or the Nasfells have with Emma being chosen for a shoot in Hawaii. Andrea Nasfell says, “We got to go to Hawaii for five days to do a print shoot for the Four Seasons. Emma had a blast doing all the swimming and exploring while they set up for the pictures, and it was a great adventure for us to travel and experience Hawaii together.” While a trip to Hawaii may not be on every young star’s horizon, the benefits of acting are many. By equipping yourself with information about the possibilities that are available to your child, you will be able to help him get the most out of his desire to perform. 5 Audition Tips 1. Be on time. Plan on arriving 30 minutes early in case you run into traffic or get lost. 2. Be prepared. Bring your child’s headshot and resume along with relevant personal information. If your child has an agent, you will also need to supply that contact information. Have your child dress comfortably, but neatly. You do not want a showy outfit to detract from your child’s performance. Know whether or not the casting director wants your child to come with something prepared to read or sing. 3. Follow Directions. Stress to your child that the casting agent will be looking for children who can follow instructions. This is one of the most important characteristics that people look for when they are casting young actors. 4. Be Polite. Encourage your child to be as well mannered as he would be with any adult for the entire audition, not just while he is on stage. 5. Be patient. There are often delays and large numbers of people waiting to audition at casting calls. It’s a good idea to take a small bag of items your child can work on quietly while she waits.

Official Fan Site exclusively for Jaida!

2008-01-18T15:21:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati Review -- Jaida is the "Triple Threat" of the group!

2007-10-27T23:18:00.000-04:00

THE NEW DEAL IS THE REAL DEAL… STRONG ANNIE CAST WILL HAVE YOU SINGING THROUGH TOMORROW By Lydia Margolis OPERA (Ohio Peoples Entertainment Review Association) Weekly October 24th 2007 If you are going to watch one musical this year, make it this production of "Annie". The nationwide tour of the beloved Broadway musical anchored in Cincinnati on Tuesday, at the Aronoff Center, for a six day run. Directed by original Broadway director and script lyricist, Martin Charnin, this show may well be one of the best to grace the Cincinnati stage. The timeless tale about little redhead, Annie, remains unchanged as does the underlying theme of optimism and perseverance. Other aspects have been refreshingly recreated. The set designed by Ming cho Lee has been modernized in a fashion that still preserves the style of the Great Depression. Props run on tracks, allowing for quick, smooth and efficient scene changes, keeping the show moving at a well paced rate. This perfectly cast production is made up of some of the country’s most talented actors. There is an obvious chemistry among the performers. Members of the ensemble portray their versatility as actors by quickly adapting and remaining in character in multiple, varying roles. Special mentions include Pat Sibley, Andy Meyers, Justin Glaser and especially Matt David who's depiction in the cabinet scene of a re-born optimist is absolutely hilarious. Heading up the show in the title role is eleven year old wonder star, Amanda Balon. Whether acting, singing or dancing it is clear that this is not a little girl who simply memorized a script to play a role on stage. This little actress, who possesses the maturity of a seasoned performer is extraordinarily convincing in her role as Annie. Had such a character truly existed, Amanda is exactly who Annie would have been. Balon believably conveys a span of her character's emotions by utilizing spectacular vocal and acting skills as well as dynamic facial expressions. Her fear of Miss Hannigan, the boozy, slave mistress of the orphanage, her adoration of the gruff, Oliver Warbucks and her hopeful love for her parents is so believable I found myself swallowing down the lump in my throat on more than one occasion. Equally impressive in her own role is Abby Stevens,Warbucks ever efficient, sexy-yet-straight laced secretary. Stevens confidently claims her role as Grace Farrell. Not only does she meet the challenge of flawlessly executing the high vocal runs, Stevens talent as a brilliant actress give Farrell’s usual hum-drum character a decorative, amusing persona. David Barton plays to perfection his role as the stout, affluent industrialist, Oliver Warbucks. Barton has just the right amount of gruffness and assertion, giving him a powerful stage presence. Lynn Andrews as "Aggie" Hannigan is a crowd favorite. Andrews remains true to her role as the quirky, booze guzzling, disturbed,comedic, sometimes over-the-top, caretaker of the orphanage. "Aggie" along with the villainous Rooster,(Michael Zygo) & Lily St. Regis,(Cheryl Hoffman) display their vocal strength in the catchy number “Easy Street”. Hannigans troupe of seven orphans are as energetic and darling as it gets. The piercing sound of the whistle that the orphanage slave mistress carries around her neck has the children lining up tallest to shortest. Shoe lifts accommodate Amanda Balons (Annie) small size here, raising her up, above at least two of her orphan counterparts. Both the "Hard Knock Life" number and the "Smile" number are well done and enjoyable. The six orphans who remain in the orphanage after Annie's escape, continue with their antics aimed mostly at tormenting Mrs. Hannigan. Outstanding mentions include Jaida Benjamin (July) as the triple threat of the group and AnnaLisa DiBernardo (Molly) for her undeniable cuteness. As with all shows this one does not come without its own set of problems. The mics are unbalanced. In several scenes the actors voices come across as high pitched whereas in others they are barely audible. The stage lights are dim & the spotlight darts around before settling on its focus. Want to learn more about these actors or memorialize your evening? Don’t expect to accomplish this through any type of souvenir program. There isn’t one. The sparse website does not offer too much more. The one short media clip it does include is incidentally from years past, and bears absolutely no resemblance to any members of this phenomenal cast. Fortunately it is the cast that carries this show and with or without an appropriate memento, they will have you humming “Tomorrow” long after the curtain comes down. Over-all this is an excellent production & well deserving of the standing ovation & thunderous applause it received. Even if you have seen "Annie" a thousand times before, you will love this re-creation

Teaching Dance in Orlando (Jaida & Madi)

2007-10-17T14:53:00.001-04:00

Theater review: In 'Annie,' thank heaven for little girls

2007-09-20T01:59:00.000-04:00

Charlotte All-Star Cheerleading

2007-09-03T02:38:00.000-04:00

WSOC - TV Interview

2007-09-03T02:17:00.001-04:00

My brother Loren, future camera man!

Annie "Meet & Greet"

2007-09-02T10:57:00.000-04:00

Annie : New York

2007-08-26T00:48:00.001-04:00

Black Girl Fame -- Jaida Benjamin

2007-08-23T21:57:00.000-04:00

Actress Profile: Creative Loafing

2007-08-22T17:24:00.000-04:00

BY KADEE BLAKELY Published 08.22.07 As an accomplished actress and dancer, 12-year-old Charlottean Jaida Benjamin is living a life that many adults only dream about. Jaida will begin touring nationally in the play Annie Sept 2007. "I do feel awkward because there are a lot of people wanting the same thing," she says, "but, in the end, Annie on tour is a team working together to put on one big show." Last September, Jaida had a spot on The Martha Stewart Show for a special card-themed show. This summer she's participating in a Shakespeare camp offered by the Children's Theatre at ImaginOn, to strengthen her acting skills. As a junior dancer for the New York Knicks, Jaida has performed in front of as many as 50,000 people, but stage fright is low on her list of concerns. "Before I go on stage, I am a little nervous, but I pretty much am just confident and turn into a totally different person," she says. "I'm just not afraid and afterwards, want to do it again." Jaida's most memorable experience has been her ad campaign with Target and the Charlotte-area Food Lion. She hopes to one day pursue a modeling and acting career in California. "New York has gotten me far," she admits, "but California will bring me to the level I need to be on".

Knicks City Kids All-Star Blog - 2006 NBA All-Star Games!

2007-08-05T02:45:00.000-04:00

The KCK taking their show on the road MSG Photos HOUSTON, TX February 15, 2006 -- Hi! I’m Jaida Benjamin and I’m 11 years old. This is my first year as a Knicks City Kid! We have gotten so many opportunities this year...in fact, we’re on our way right now to Houston, Texas to dance at the NBA All-Star Weekend, the best opportunity of all! Right now, we’re on the plane, I’m sitting in my chair and everyone is walking around, taking pictures and talking to each other. Everyone seems to be more excited than tired. I can’t wait to get off this plane so I can explore Texas (since I’ve never been there) and see the hotel! I am very nervous, but excited at the same time. I can’t imagine how many other children would love to have this opportunity, which is why I am so grateful to even be sitting on this plane. I am soooo psyched! I can’t stop thinking about how many people will come to the NBA All-Star Game, and how many people the KCK will be dancing in front of. I just hope that this weekend is fun, exciting, energetic, and positive for everyone!

Official MySpace Page

2007-08-03T00:46:00.000-04:00

IMDb Resume for Jaida Benjamin

2007-07-11T12:34:00.000-04:00

Charlotte: Charlotte Teen Inspires Success

2007-07-11T12:26:00.000-04:00

Local Charlotte teen Jaida Benjamin might not be a household name yet, but she is well on her way to stardom. Jaida, a 6th grader at Northwest School of the Arts, has appeared in national commercials for Bank of America, Mueller’s Pasta, Rhodes Furniture, among many others. Her extensive resume includes many jobs where she used her talents in acting, dancing, modeling, and voice-overs. The ambitious girl receives acting training at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, vocal training with Jennifer Benjamin, and dance training at North Carolina Dance Theatre. She is managed by Mommie and Me Talent Management, which was created to help aspiring models and talented performers into the business. The company is establishing Jaida’s career on the right track, but are always looking to help more talented children to become professionals in the business. Jaida keeps her business in tact with her agent, Beverly Brock of The Brock Agency, based out of Hickory, NC. Jaida Benjamin needs to be a name you remember, because she is set to take the world by storm with her many talents. The young girl’s drive to be successful can be an inspiration to many. It does not matter where you are from, all that matters is your work ethic and talents. Charlotte residents should be proud and show their support for Jaida Benjamin.

For more information on Jaida Benjamin, visit http://www.jaidabenjamin.com/

Annie - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

2007-07-11T09:16:00.000-04:00

Sign Jaida's Guestbook!

2007-07-05T21:22:00.000-04:00

Annie : Tour Info

2007-07-05T21:18:00.000-04:00

Network Presentations, Our Tours

2007-07-05T21:17:00.000-04:00

Official Website

2007-07-05T20:57:00.000-04:00

The Charlotte Post - News

2007-07-05T20:31:00.000-04:00

Charlotte actor tours with ‘Annie’ Published Thursday, July 5, 2007 by Cheris F. Hodges Tomorrow is just a day away for a Charlotte-bred star. Jaida (pronounced Jay-da) Benjamin has been cast in the national production of “Annie.” She plays the orphan July. “I saw the remake of ‘Annie’ and that’s how I was introduced to (the play),” the 12-year-old said. “I liked the plot and thought it was interesting for kids and adults.” Jaida, a student at Northwest School of the Arts, said when she was growing up, she wanted to model, but decided that she wanted to try acting, like her cinema favorite Angelina Jolie. Jaida said she was excited when she won the role, but kept it on the inside because she’d been in auditions before. “In the New York audition, I was very relaxed because I’d been to New York many times,” she said. Speaking to Jaida, it’s hard to believe she’s only 12. She has a maturity and poise that gives her a star quality-something “Annie’s” producers picked up on. Jaida’s mother, Jocinda Benjamin, said that when she sent her to New York the producers saw something special. She two days and several callbacks, the role was hers. “It’s kind of overwhelming behind the scenes,” Benjamin said. The story of “Little Orphan Annie” doesn’t traditionally have many African Americans in the cast, and Jaida was the only black girl chosen. The stage isn’t new to her, though. She has been on Martha Stewart’s TV show, danced for the New York Knicks as a Knicks City Kid and she was an in-store model for Target. Jaida has also been in commercials for Food Lion and Bank of America. The production of “Annie” will be on the road for almost a year and Jaida will be tutored on location while the play is going on. Benjamin said parents make sacrifices when they have a child in show biz, but it’s worth it. “When you see that your child wants to (act) it’s up to us as parents to cultivate it,” said Benjamin, who is also Jaida’s manager and agent. “I wear three hats,” she said. “It’s more than just saying my kid is cute. This is bigger than what people think.” “Annie” opens September 2007.