We have posted a number of times this year about the movie, Billy: The Early Years, a bio pic dramatization of the childhood and youth of celebrated evangelist Billy Graham. The bluegrass connection comes in the fact that young mandolin/vocal prodigy Sierra Hull has a small speaking role in the film, and Ronnie Bowman, Ronnie McCoury and John Cowman have cameo appearances as vocalists.

Sierra is also featured in a singing role, performing the hymn Just As I Am, reported to be one of Graham’s favorites, in the scene where he experiences his conversion to Christian faith.

The film opens in theaters on October 10, and the gala premier is scheduled in Nashville on October 2 during the Nashville Film Festival.

Owing to a frustrating schedule conflict, Sierra is afraid that she may have to miss her red carpet turn, though she will already be dressed for the occasion.

“The Billy premier is in Nashville, but the same night as the IBMA Awards! What a bummer! I would like to maybe attend what little of the premier I could before the awards, but I can’t just miss the awards. It’s a special one for me, and I think I’m supposed to present an award. I hate having to miss it though!”

Sierra is nominated for the IBMA’s Mandolin Player of the Year award, the first female nominee in this category, and this while she is beginning her senior year of high school!