The Tightrope singer has been cast in the film adapted from writer Tarell MCCraney's play In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue, about a young man who comes of age during the 1980s 'war on drugs' era in Miami, Florida.

The role marks the first onscreen gig for Monae, who voiced a small role as Dr. Monae in animated feature Rio 2.

She joins Spectre star Naomie Harris, The Hunger Games' Mahershala Ali, and Selma actor Andre Holland in director Barry Jenkins' film.

Moonlight, which is being produced by Brad Pitt's Plan B Entertainment, is slated for release in the autumn of 2016.