Tressa's inaugural venture into the world of feature films was a significant and memorable appearance in the critically acclaimed motion picture, The FiveHeartbeats, directed by the renowned Robert Townsend. Within this cinematic masterpiece, she had the distinct privilege of sharing the screen with the illustrious and iconic R&B artist, Patti LaBelle, whose remarkable talent and enduring legacy continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Notably, aside from her notable film appearances in Flatliners and Message In A Bottle, Tressa Thompson further demonstrated her impressive range of acting abilities by starring in the made-for-television movie "The Little Richard Story", where she brought to life the character of Ruth Brown, a renowned vocalist and musician.
Tressa's illustrious career has been marked by a plethora of captivating performances and appearances on a diverse array of esteemed television networks, including the likes of BET, ABC, Fox, CBS, and NBC, a testament to her enduring talent and versatility as a performer.
As a testament to her impressive range, Tressa has had the privilege of sharing the stage with some of the most iconic and influential musical acts of all time, including the legendary Motown groups, The Dells. This remarkable opportunity allowed her to promote the critically acclaimed film, The Five Heartbeats, and receive widespread critical acclaim, a fitting tribute to her remarkable talent and dedication to her craft.
Notable performances by this individual have featured shared stages with a plethora of renowned artists, including the legendary Patti LaBelle, the iconic Gladys Knight, the incomparable Stevie Wonder, the smooth-voiced Howard Hewett, the timeless Dionne Warwick, the soulful Earth, Wind, & Fire, and the trailblazing Run DMC.
Tressa embarked on an extraordinary international journey in the year 2001, taking on the esteemed role of lead female vocalist for Royal Caribbean Entertainment's esteemed Cruise Lines. As a result, she had the profound privilege of captivating audiences from all corners of the globe, her voice soaring to new heights as she performed for the masses.
In addition to her extensive touring schedule, Tressa received an invitation of great significance, being asked to lend her voice to a public memorial service in honor of the victims of the devastating 9/11 tragedy. The ceremony, attended by none other than Mayor Giuliani, was a poignant tribute to those who had lost their lives in the horrific events of that fateful day. With her powerful rendition of the iconic "God Bless America," Tressa played a small but meaningful part in the healing process, her voice serving as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Tressa's cinematic endeavors in 2007 culminated in the production and starring role in the short film "The Yesterday Pool", a project that boasted an impressive collaboration with the iconic Mickey Rooney, a recipient of the esteemed Academy Award.
This critically acclaimed short film garnered significant attention from prominent news outlets, including UPI, Reuters, and Entertainment News Weekly, who recognized its artistic merit and potential for excellence.
Furthermore, "The Yesterday Pool" received the distinction of being an official selection at the 2009 Hollywood Black Film Festival, a prestigious platform that showcases the best of African American cinema.
Tressa is actively engaged in the preliminary stages of preparing her 2010 Academy Awards short film submission, titled "I Gathered With...". This forthcoming project will serve as a milestone in her professional journey, marking her inaugural foray into the realm of directorial endeavors.
Tressa is slated to take center stage in a forthcoming musical extravaganza, "Back To Bacharach And David", at the esteemed Music Box @ Fonda Theater in the vibrant city of Hollywood, California, with a scheduled debut in the month of April 2009. The production, directed by the accomplished actress and comedian Kathy Najimy, promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing Tressa's remarkable talent to a packed house.
