DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- The cast of the Hillside High School's performance of "Akeelah and the Bee" got a special shoutout from a big name in Hollywood.

Actor Laurence Fishburne, who starred in the award-winning film alongside of actress Keke Palmer sent a special message to the cast ahead of their last performance this past weekend.

"Good luck to all of you tonight or break legs as we say in the theater and thank you for your work adopting the film to the stage and using the power of drama and power of words to inspire and celebrate your community," Fishburne said.

He played Keke Palmer's coach in the 2006 movie.

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