Bright Young Things

ISSUE 21, April 2011

www.comelime.com

in association with

EDITION

events

MUSIC

COMMUNITY

theatre

COMEDY

screen

CLUBS

£2.00

Cherri Prince

gallery

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CONTENTS

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APRIL 2011 18 Cover Story Cherri Prince 04 Events Royal Wedding special 08 World Events Sierra Leone 50 10 Fashion/Beauty Freshskin launch 12 Children Chess for Beginners

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15 Theatre Misidentity 21 Music Katy B 28 Clubs Loud Minority 32 Screen Coming of Age movies

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Word from the Editor

35 Gallery Lost in the Toy Museum 36 Community RIP Smiley Culture 41 Family Matters 43 Comedy Laughter lines 44 Breaktime Get your jokes on ISSUE 21, April 2011

So readers, what did you want to do when you were growing up.

Are you living the dream?

Sophia A Jackson xx

editor@gotmedialive.co.uk

EDITION

events

MUsIC

COMMUnItY

theatre

COMeDY

sCreen

ClUBs

enthusiasts to singers and musicians - we talk to a range of young and super smart people to encourage them on their road to success.

www.comelime.com

in association with

£2.00

Welcome to Lime’s second annual Bright Young Things issue.

In this edition of the magazine we celebrate talented young people who know what they want out of life and are making their mark on the world. From spoken word artists and budding chess

Cherri Prince

gallerY

ION TIT of Bilaghl’st’s

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rti nge py a co m AiReve E 26 G Win albu E PA SE

Published By Got Media Limited

Team Lime Editor Sophia A Jackson editor@gotmedialive.co.uk Designer Mialisa Fenty Contributors Cassam Looch Semper Azeez-Harris Tricia Wombell Alicia Adejobi Karla Williams Audrey Brown

Jacqueline Auma Paul Aaaron Micallar Walker Nicke Adebowale Natasha Julien Natasha Devon

Website Basil Lumsden CONNECT WITH LIME www.comelime.com

Advertising and sales Dean Serieux dean@gotmedialive.co.uk

www.facebook.com/ limemagazine

Events listings info@comelime.com

www.twitter.com/ limewithus

Lime: a word used in the Caribbean which means socialising and good times with your friends and family – welcome to Lime Magazine.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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EVENTS

Chocolates by Bill McCarrick at Sir Hans Sloane Brides of Culture exhibitors Faces of Bodin

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Apr Brides of Culture Bridal Exhibition A showcase of the best and most unique services to make your special day one to remember. At the expo you will receive free goody bags, special on the day discounts, makeovers and more.

Info: 11am-7pm |Crowne Plaza Hotel Docklands, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1AL | www. bridesofculture.com

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Apr Speed Dueting To celebrate the highly anticipated release of Glee Season 2: Volume 1 DVD on 4 April from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, dating website giant mysinglefriend.com has teamed up with premium Karaoke Bar Lucky Voice to help singles throughout the country find the love of their life through . . . singing. Whether you fancy yourself a Pavarotti

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or even if you’re more of a Jedward, let Glee put a spring in your step and a song in your heart by helping you find your perfect partner in London’s Lucky Voice. Hopefuls looking for love will enter a karaoke sing-off where they will be rated on their song choice and vocal abilities. There will be no time to get tongue-tied as those matched up will be asked to join forces and give a rendition of their favourite Glee classic. The best duet will be whizzed off to an evening of dinner and musical theatre.

Info: 6.30pm | Lucky Voice, 173-174 Upper Street, London N1 1RG | 020 7354 6280

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Apr Rum Punch Rum Punch – the monthly, invigorating blend of entertainment. This month’s show, hosted by Comfort, Partnas in Rhyme present to you, a full, impressive line up of some of the UK’s most talented rappers, poets and singers – including a featured set from spoken word great, Mosaique – fun, jokes, Shabbas and the open mic segment, for all you enthusiasts who have some creativity to share (Open Mic is first come, first served – limited spaces – sign up at 7 pm).

Info: 7pm | Rudys Revenge 168 High Holborn, WC1V 7AA | pirevents@yahoo. co.uk

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-10 Apr Southbank Centre Chocolate Festival A selection of free and paid for events and presentations taking place during this chocolate weekender with chocolate connoisseurs – including: – Philipp Kauffmann, founder of Original Beans chocolate – Juliet from Jaz and Juls will present their range of organic hot chocolate – Outsider Tart will be making three variations on everybody’s favourite – the chocolate chip cookie – Paul Wayne Gregory will be making Caramel and Appleton Rum chocolates – made with very special single estate Trinidad origin chocolate.

Info: Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road SE1 8XX | www. festivalchocolate.co.uk

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Apr Shush!

Tired of meeting Mr. Right-Now-But-UltimatelyWrong? Or Ms. ThoughtShe-Was-Right-But-IWas-So-Wrong?! Well tough – that’s life! Or is it?

Shush!, aim to hook people up. You know with people you might fancy and have something in common

with. How do we do this?

Well, come in a bit closer... we don’t want to shout...

SHUSH! is a London based social, dating network, designed to bring together like-minded, fun-loving, unattached individuals, like you.

We’ve been asked, “Is it like speed-dating?” and the simple answer is ‘no’.

We provide a compere, live entertainment and some great tunes from a fantastic DJ (Phat Kontrolaz), invite you to the beautiful bar that is Southwark Rooms and that’s it – all you need to do is mingle. So, stop leaving Mr. Or Ms. Right to chance and come out and meet some of London’s finest!

Info: 8pm | Southwark Rooms, 60 Southwark Street, London SE1 1UN |ONiTPR@yahoo.co.uk

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Apr CLOSE UP with shortMAN – the legend returns

MANDiNKA presents London’s number one live music showcase, established since 2008.

Join the highly energised, pensive, spoken word Artist, shortMAN on stage with the Close Up band, for a theatrical set, as he showcases new material from his forthcoming project, Jokesville – in a league of his own,

For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

Spoken word

improvise, even if that means making silly noises down the microphone, the audience wouldn’t notice. I love poetry equally as much as beat-boxing, but I’m not at that stage where I can do free verse poetry.

How did you discover your talent?

I don’t remember when I first discovered my talent.

It was probably in primary school. Imitating the latest songs that I’d hear on TV or on CD’s. At first it was sort of for a joke, but then a couple of my friends would start writing lyrics to the beats. That’s when it started to get serious.

From then it built up my confidence to do the school talent shows, but I had no idea it was going to get this far.

Your mum is now homeschooling you. Do you miss the ordinary routines of going to school?

I don’t miss being in the classrooms at all. I think for me being in a classroom was more of a distraction.

I’ve always been an individual person. If I was in a classroom, I’d usually be working on my own. I do miss my friends, but I know how to be flexible so that I can arrange to meet up with them as much as possible.

Have you found it hard to deal with the attention you have been getting?

I haven’t found it hard because once I know I’m going to perform or I have finished performing, I have this thrill. I feel invincible and confident, so the attention doesn’t faze me.

In what ways has your family supported your ambitions?

My mum has supported me by coming to the performances, sending me links to talent shows or seminars to do with music etc, giving me feedback and promoting me in her networks/friends and through Facebook. She is the best supporter in the world.

Do you prefer beatboxing or poetry?

I prefer beat-boxing because in some ways it’s unexpected and I can

Your mum founded the Black Youth

TRNuh reveals why her Mum is her biggest fan.

What has been the highlight IGHT BR of your career so far?

I think the highlight UN of my G THIN career was performing at the SLAMbassadors UK final.

I became friends with some of the most talented young poets, got to work with Joelle Taylor from The Poetry Society, listened to Linton Kwesi Johnson, received a standing ovation and received a trophy for doing what I love. It was an amazing experience.

YO

Performing under the alias TRNuh, the Londoner is a spoken word artist, beat-boxer and singer/ songwriter. Last year she became one of the 10 national winners of the SLAMbassadors competition and is accustomed to receiving standing ovations.

Achievement Awards.

How proud are you?

I am proud of my mum. I am happy that she’s happy with her work and what she has achieved. The first event was great, the second event was even better and the third event I could imagine is going to be amazing. She is becoming a significant role model not just to me, but to other young people. Couldn’t ask for a better mum.

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t the age of 15, most kids are worrying about their love lives, falling out of friendships on a daily basis and hating school. But not TianaRochelle Oldroyd Ellis, who is carving out a career for herself.

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What are you hoping to achieve in the future?

I just want to perform.

Also to receive a positive reputation because I believe that is more valuable than any materialistic item. I want have my own record label that would bring back the real hip hop and I’d also like to run my own photography/graphic designing business. Those ideas are only just the start.

I have many more to come.

Info: www.twitter.com/ TRNuh/Facebook: TRNuh The Artist LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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shortMAN does it like no other. Guest Performers on the night: AKS; Designerbabies; Ricky Stutterz and Sonority Turner. Hosted by Alim Kamara. Music From: DJ: Rhodium (Phat Kontrolaz).

Info: 7.30pm | malinnga@ mandinka.net I The Old Queens Head, 44 Essex Road, N1 8LN

EVENTS

Apr Jawdance presented by Apples and Snakes

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-17 Apr Jahan E Khusrau Jahan E Khusrau, the internationally renowned festival produced annually in India, comes to the UK for the very first time as a key part of Southbank Centre’s 11-day Alchemy Festival of South Asian culture. Conceived and designed by painter and cultural icon Muzaffar Ali, Jahan E Khusrau is dedicated to Hazrat Amir Khusrau, the 13th-century Sufi poet saint of India. An atmospheric celebration of the Sufi spirit of openness and freedom in a contemporary context, this prestigious festival has become an unmissable Delhi institution over the past nine years.

Info: Southbank Centre | www.southbankcentre. co.uk/alchemy

Jahan e Khusrau

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Poet Cezanne will perform at Jawdance this April (Image by Richard Barr)

Roof Gardens Wedding Showcase returns for 2011

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Apr The Roof Gardens ‘Wedding Showcase’ returns for 2011 London’s exclusive rooftop venue, The Roof Gardens in Kensington, will once again be presenting its exceptional wedding facilities at a series of wedding showcase events in 2011. Prospective couples can visit the venue where they will be greeted with champagne and

canapés on arrival before exploring the beautiful venue and gardens. A number of London’s top wedding experts and suppliers will be on hand to discuss everything from wedding cakes, flower arrangements, invitations, honeymoon destinations and entertainment for that all important special day. The Roof Gardens’ friendly events team will also be on hand to discuss all the wedding packages and options available for the summer and winter seasons ahead.

Sample cocktails in the Spanish Gardens, try the themed food stalls and be entertained by live music. For those dance-shy couples, there will also be an opportunity to brush up on their skills and learn from the best with some very special wedding dance demonstrations by the team from the Chelseabased Karen Hardy Studios.

Info: 12-3pm| The Roof Gardens 6th Floor, 99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA |www. roofgardens.virgin.com |events@roofgardens. virgin.com

Jawdance, the show where you find poets on stage and poets on film; there are poetry films, poetry features and an open mic (sign up on the night).This month’s featured Poets are: Cezanne – writer, painter and performer; Mike Loveday – His poems have appeared in Seam, Obsessed with Pipework, Assent and Stand, and later this year poems are appearing in Staple, The SHOp, and Other Poetry. From the Roundhouse Poetry Collective we have, Toby de Angeli, Kian McEvoy, Catherine La Biran, Elliott Daley, Phoenix Martins and Stephanie Turner.

Superbard – a storyteller sent from the future, he sets his short stories to music and film. Your host for the evening is Paul Lyalls. Every third Wednesday.

Info: 7.30pm | Rich Mix, 32 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, E1 | www. richmix.org.uk

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Apr The official Sierra Leone 50th Golden Jubilee The crowning of Ms Sierra Leone UK Beauty Pageant and independence celebration dance.

Info: 9pm | Guvnor Bar, 26 Bell Lane, Off Dock Road, E16 www.sierraleone50. com

Follow us on twitter @limewithus for free and discounted tickets to the best events in the city

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Apr – 1 May Celebrate the Royal Wedding with The Royal Package at The Sanctum Soho

REVIEW

To celebrate in the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton Sanctum Soho is introducing the Royal Package. There will be cucumber sandwiches, bowls of strawberries and glasses of champagne to toast the newlyweds available all day for anyone who purchases the ‘Royal package’. On arrival guests will be treated to a luxury ‘Best of British’ goody basket in

their rooms complete with all patriotic memorabilia needed for the big day union jack cupcakes, flags, tea, scones and mini jams.

The cinema has luxury velvet seats, allowing for people to mingle, drink and eat whilst watching the wedding on a large cinematic screen. As the sun sets guests will be invited onto the roof top to carry on the party with a complimentary glass of Pimms.

Info: www.sanctumsoho. com

Lime review: Raise a toast to Kate and William at 108 Marylebone Lane Lime rating: Words: Natasha Devon Frankly, if there is a better way to celebrate the impending nuptials of our future sovereign than with fairy cakes covered in glitter, then I don’t want to know about it. Imagine my delight when I was presented with a feast of miniature sweet treats, including said fairy cake, a traditional scone with clotted cream and jam, a carrot cake so moist you wondered how it was still solid, a darling teeny tiny blueberry tart and something that looked like millionaire’s shortbread but tasted (to my delight) like tiramisu. 108 Marylebone Lane is shiny, opulent and screams decadence. I ate my high tea in the drawing room; a quaint mishmash of Alice-in-Wonderland-esque furniture; high backed zebra print chairs, swirly-legged coffee tables and bizarrely shaped lamps. Resisting the urge to ask my hugely personable and efficient host, Raoul, if I could perhaps live there (with him, please, he was gorgeous), I settled down to Darjeeling served in a charming transparent little tea pot and matching cup and saucer. My scone was a culinary miracle – chewy and dense in the centre with a crisp yet light crust

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EVENTS

Lime’s essential guide to celebrating the Royal Wedding

Here are some of the most elaborate events happening around the Capital celebrating the wedding of the decade: Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton on Apr 29. We’ve even thrown a competition in there too.

Apr Egg Royale Day and

Night Here at Egg we are throwing the doors open in the afternoon to begin an epic day and night of Royal celebrations for the future King and Queen, and continue deep into Saturday morning. The early session will be hosted by leading London collective Muak. Expect unorthodox wedding styled production to accompany the screens that will be transmitting the wedding live. There will be a champagne reception alongside a few royal surprises t. Royale Guests: Norman Jay (Good Times); Sancho Panza Sound System; Faith; Danny Rampling; Jimi Mistry and Muak; Vegas Baby; The Sharp Boyz and more.

Info: 1pm Friday afternoon – 10am Saturday morning Egg, 200 York Way, London, N7 9AP www.egglondon.net We have three pairs of tickets to Egg Royale on April 29, 2011. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with EGG ROYALE in the subject header by April 25.

Please include your contact number and full name.

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and the selection of cakes were every bit as pleasing to the tongue as to the eye. I resisted the urge to eat the sparkling fairy cake, the aesthetic piece de resistance for as long as possible before surrendering to temptation and being transported to light sponge and buttercream heaven. It was all terribly and fittingly British and I felt a surge of patriotism rise within me (or it could have been a sugar rush). As I ended the tea with chocolate dipped strawberries and a glass of beautifully dry champagne, I began to feel like Royalty myself. For an afternoon of pure indulgence, fantasy and general hedonistic pleasure, look no further.

Info: Royal Champagne Afternoon Tea | 108 Marylebone Lane Restaurant and Bar | www.108marylebonelane.com |27 April – 1 May 2011. The wedding will be shown in the lounge.

Apr – 16 May Sip Royal Wedding inspired cocktails‫‏‬at London’s Park Plaza Something old: Old Passioned – fresh passion fruit, passion fruit vodka and a dash of cranberry Something new: Wedded Fizz – Pimms No.1, Champagne and garnished with strawberry, mint and blackberry Something borrowed: Best Man-hattan – Makers Mark whiskey, Dry Martini, Rosso Martini and finished with a classic cocktail cherry Something blue: Blue Moon – Blue Curacao, gin, fresh lemon juice and topped with soda Info: www.parkplaza. com for the list of London hotels LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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WORLD EVENTS

EVENT OF THE MONTH

SunSplash Antalya

John Legend will headline at the St Lucia Jazz festival 2011

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Apr – 08 May Saint Lucia Jazz 2011 – 20th Anniversary R&B star, John Legend, joins a host of musical stars set to grace the stage at the internationally acclaimed event.

Confirmed artists include some of the world’s biggest jazz, reggae, soul, world music and r&b musicians including Angelique

23 Kidjo, Tarrus Riley, Morgan Heritage, Chuck Brown and Trey Songz Info: www.stluciajazz. org

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Apr Sierra Leone: 50th anniversary of independence Sierra Leone achieved independence on April 27, 1961. Since independence many changes have been experienced politically and economically and in the social society of Sierra Leone.

Info: www.sierraleone50. com/home

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dance music for discerning ears. With its amazing beachfront setting on the stunning Turkish Riviera, this exclusive, week long party takes up residency at the super chic Hillside Su Hotel. Limited to just 400 guests, SunSplash Antalya is a truly refreshing addition to the sunny, European festival scene, presenting a healthy blend of music, art, travel, food and good living. Artists already confirmed include; Gilles Peterson (BBC Radio 1) Jose James, Mad Professor, Kon and Amir, Benji B (BBC Radio 1), Phil Asher, Simbad, DJ Cliffy, Lefto, and Ahu. Info: www.sunsplashantalya.com

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-29 May Turkey: SunSplash Antalya SunSplash Antalya is Turkey’s biggest little secret, a boutique music festival that combines style, luxury travel and serious

- 27 May Reggae Film Festival The five day event will open with the screening of animated, documentary and feature films from Jamaica, Antigua and the UK in the presence of Jamaican and international film and music stars.

Invited VIP guests include David ‘Steel Pulse’ Hinds – star of the Festival feature film Rocksteady, Heavyweight champturned-actor Lennox Lewis Johnny Was, Ghett’A Life, J-American actress Sheryl Lee Ralph; Jamaican film-makers Chris Browne, Ras Kassa and Storm Saulter and Mitzie Allen, producer/ director of Hama Films Antigua. The 2011 event to be staged on the Whitter Village central courtyard lawns, will once again

feature a Make A Film In 24 Hours competition, a Children’s Programme and film seminar. Live Reggae music before Screenings, a series of Midnight Movies and a Gala Awards Show are among some of the special features of the 2011 event.

Info: www. jamaicafilmacademy.org

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om 08 June Caribbean International Fashion Week Caribbean International Fashion Week [New York] will accommodate a multitude of elite media, buyers, Caribbean officials, industry professionals and celebrities with the sole purpose of bringing more exposure and sales revenue to Caribbean fashion designers. In effect, CIFW will bring greater admiration and appreciation for Caribbean fashion and beauty worldwide.

Info: www. caribbeanfashionweek.com

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– 19 June DC Black Theatre Festival The DC Black Theatre Festival [DCBTF] is a weeklong event celebrating Washington DC’s thriving theatre community.

The DCBTF will bring together a wide array of local and national artists, writers, producers, theatre companies and theatre lovers in what promises to be one of the city’s biggest self-producing black theatre projects ever.

Info: www.dcbtf.org

For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

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• Sierra Leone was one of the first points of contact in West Africa for European explorers. The Portuguese arrived first and explorer Pedro da Cintra named the peninsula “Serra Lyoa” (Lion Mountain).

• The first slaves to arrive in North America were brought there in 1652 from Sierra Leone.

• The Amistad revolt of 1840 involved illegally captured Africans from Sierra Leone. After their capture and brutal imprisonment 53 Africans rebelled during the journey across the Atlantic and demanded the ship return to Africa. Rough seas made this difficult and the crew steered the ship to America were the infamous trial took place. Three years later the surviving 36 Africans returned home.

• Sengbe Pieh (also known as Joseph Cinqué) was the most prominent of the Amistad defendants. He was the first to unshackle himself and freed the others. He held command of the vessel during its journey towards New York, ensuring order remained and rationing supplies.

Like a true captain the children were fed first and he always took the smallest ration. Today his likeness appears on the Sierra Leone’s 5000 Leone bank note.

• It’s likely that many African-Americans can trace their ancestry to

• Used for many years by the British as a trading point for slaves Sierra Leone eventually became a focal point for the abolitionist movement.

Freetown was first settled in 1787 by 400 black Britons sent from London.

Dubbed the ‘Black Poor’ these included AfricanAmericans loyal to the crown during the American Revolution seeking refuge, West Indians and Asians.

Freetown was formally founded in 1792 by The Sierra Leone Company and a further 1100 former slaves settled in the fledgling town.

• It’s almost impossible to think about Sierra Leone without mentioning its gruesome 11 year civil war.

Between 1991 and 2002 over 50,000 people were killed. A lasting feature of the war was the atrocities committed by the rebels, whose trademark was to hack off the hands or feet of their victims.

• In September 2010, the UN Security Council lifted the last remaining sanctions against Sierra Leone saying the government had fully reestablished control over its territory, and former rebel fighters had been disarmed and demobilised.

WORLD EVENTS

Sierra Leone his as it was the month departure Sierra point for Leone joins thousands a growing about to list of take the African torturous countries middle celebrating passage to 50 years of WORDS: Nicke Adebowale the Americas. independence.

Every former • The actor Isaiah colony struggled for Washington investigated freedom and Sierra Leone his ancestry and DNA was no different. It has a tests revealed a link to unique place in the tragedy the Mende and Temne that was the transatlantic peoples. Following a trip slave trade, once a focal to the country Isaiah was point for its growth it granted full Sierra Leonean eventually became a citizenship in 2006. starting place of its demise.

John Legend, Trey Songz, Morgan Heritage, Sixun, Ledisi, Allison Marquis & Eclectic Pan Jazz, Augustin “Jab” Duplessis f/Derede Williams, Yellowjackets, Carimi, Mervyn Wilkinson, Maceo Parker, Taj Weekes & Adowa, Chuck Brown, Angelique Kidjo Mike Stern w/Richard Bona, Bob Franceschini & Lionel Cordew, Regina Carter’s “Reverse Thread”, Bad Ass Brass, Saint Lucia Collective, Anacaona.

For more information contact the Saint Lucia Tourist Board on 0207 341 7000 www.stluciajazz.org

• Sierra Leone boasts miles of unspoiled beaches along its Atlantic coast. It’s hoped that this natural beauty will help boost tourism to Sierra Leone and the economy.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Fresh skin for bright

FASHION/BEAUTY

young things Elemis launches Freshskin range for young women

Words: Alicia Adejobi

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The Freshskin range, consisting of nine new products, is aimed at teenagers and women in their 20’s. The products range from Skin Glow Exfoliating Face Wash to Loving Lips Quenching Lip Balm. So where did the idea for the Freshskin range come from? Elemis pride themselves on using natural ingredients – an element which is hard to find in today’s high street products. A great deal of skincare ranges on the market use ingredients that clog up the skin’s pores.

Rather than preventing, these products plaster over the problem, so to speak.

Teenagers are the age group that are most likely to have a combination skin type, which is why Elemis have decided to target their 10 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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ward-winning skincare brand Elemis invited Lime magazine to celebrate IGHT BR the launch of their new Freshskin range with a spa event in central London. Hosted UN by the Elemis G THIN team including director of product and new range at them. With treatment development the use of raw ingredients Noella Gabriel, the event such as elderflower, apple, showcased the new line of blackcurrant, goji berries products and guests were and even frankincense, treated to a selection of Elemis promise to drinks and nibbles. ‘moisturise and boost skin’s elasticity to keep it youthful for longer.’

Choosing the right ingredients that are suitable for all skin types wasn’t an easy feat as Noella goes on to explain: “Young skin is predominantly spotty, they can be congested and combination yet they’re also dry.” Noella also reveals that young people mistakenly put on thick moisturisers in the belief that they are nourishing their skin. She explains: “Rather than putting on loads of butter we decided to go for refined, beautiful textures. This is so that the product has a lighter feel on the skin and doesn’t congest the pores. I wanted the products to give a fresher feel to the range.”

What’s even greater about

the new Elemis Freshskin range is that the prices are affordable starting at £8 all the way to £22.

Noella Gabriel explains the reasons for their pricing: “We had to make sure that it smells amazing,

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that it performs and also ensure that it’s cheap and cheerful.”

Info: Elemis Freshskin launches exclusively online on April 14 at www. elemis.com/freshskin.

Apr Natural Hair Workshop Learn to braid, twist, cornrow and two strand flat twist.

Michelle Olorunda who runs the Naturally Nubian Blog and hosted her first workshop in February said of the event: “It was great to see ladies come out and conquer their fears! Learning how to braid and cornrow is not easy but these lovely ladies came to enjoy a day of swapping tips/advice as well as learning a new skill.

I was completely exhausted by the end of the day but I had such a good time working with everyone. It just goes to show that if we put our minds to it, we can definitely learn to care for our own hair in the correct way”.

Info: 11am to 4pm |1 Dryden Court, Renfrew Road, London, SE11 4NH | www.naturallynubian01.blogspot. com

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CHILDREN

CHESS for Beginners R ichard Pittman Weekes II decided to start teaching children and young people how to play and to also promote chess as an educational aid and a socially inclusive activity.

He has has taught over 1100 children to play chess in Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark schools and also runs six junior chess clubs. He organised the first Lewisham ChessFest in April 2010 at two Libraries, a Community Centre, an Archive Centre, a School and the Town Centre. Over 250 adults and children attended and played chess together throughout the month.

So why are you so passionate about chess?

I’ve realised for a long time that chess was such a great game to play and as soon as I did some research and found out that there are so many educational and social benefits from learning to play I thought it would be a brilliant idea to start a chess club and teach children how to play.

Richard Pittman Weekes II

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Teaching chess

We speak to Richard Pittman Weekes II who is changing young lives by using his passion for chess to teach children valuable life skills.

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

Would you describe yourself as being a competitive person?

Yes indeed; and even more so now that I’m a chess teacher. I thrive on being competitive and try to instil this into my students. It’s the challenge to always do better than you did before.

Chess is a mind game you see and the skills and techniques you learn from playing teaches you to take responsibility for your actions and helps you to plan ahead. In this battle of minds it’s how you outwit your opponent by working out what their next move is and trying to make less mistakes than they do. It feels good when you win the game as well.

I know I can be a sore loser sometimes. How do you manage this side to the game especially with young children? Do you say ‘it’s the taking part that counts’?

One thing I think children learn from playing board games is the value of the family spending time together and enjoying each other’s company.

No, not all. I know that all children love to play games and they all want to win I teach the children the value of winning and losing graciously as there are three outcomes to a game; you can win or lose or draw. So as winning and losing are part of this process they soon realise how to learn from the mistakes they make and to quickly move on to the next game.

What kind of feedback do you get from the children who are part of your chess clubs?

Well the best feedback I get is when they come back every week to learn and play more chess. Most of them love doing chess puzzles as homework so when they return the puzzles to me that’s another way I monitor how they feel about learning chess.

What kind of feedback do you get from schools who sign up to your chess clubs?

The response from schools is steadily growing.

I’m inspired by the perception of two primary headteachers who took the bold step three years ago

Where do you see your organisation in five years – international maybe?

As chess is the most popular board game in the world, it has no boundaries. Within the next five years my plan is to teach more children chess and demonstrate how chess has helped underachieving students to improve grades, develop positive relationships, and strengthen their selfconfidence.

What make a great chess player?

I tell students they should play chess at least 30 minutes every

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Any plans to set up chess clubs for adults?

I have been asked about this many times. I do feel however, that as my passion is to teach children and there are so many of them and not enough junior chess clubs to teach them in that I can’t yet see how I’ll be able to fit in an adult class for a little while.

YO

How important is playing board games to a happy home life?

In society nowadays families are usually off in different directions doing various activities that never quite intersect. I have a particular interest in the relationship between children playing chess and the impact that this has on their quality of life in their families.

One thing I think children learn from playing board games is the value of the family spending time together and

day; study and read chess books about other games and when playing to always check the whole board to work out what their opponent is trying to do. Doing these regularly should improve anyone’s game.

What did you want to do when you were growing up?

I’m 54 and still growing up so I’d say my thoughts have changed many times. In addition to being healthy and living to at least 90, I always wanted to be successful and knew that I would be someday. I was searching for a few years for that special something; that I would have fun doing and enjoy. I believe I’ve found it or maybe it found me – teaching children.

Something positive that will inspire them; stimulate them and help them to think and understand what life is all about and to look forward to the future.

Info: greenwich-chessgroup@hotmail.co.uk

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and decided to allow me to teach chess in their schools during the day.

How does chess help children in terms of their education and general learning?

All children are born with the ability to problem solve so teaching chess to children and encouraging them to play the game seriously is one of the best things that parents, teachers and coaches can suggest. Chess has many educational benefits it is shedding its nerdy image and becoming cool for children and young people to learn and play.

Besides being a great game chess is easy to learn and fun to play. Chess teaches children to have patience, and to think before they act. Playing chess is thought to be quite beneficial for your mind and helps children to cope and work well under pressure and to hold their nerve in situations. Chess is pure skill so from an educational standpoint, I believe that Chess will give students at-risk of underachieving – both girls

and boys – a challenging and positive alternative.

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enjoying each other’s company. Board games can also teach children skills in maths, improve reading, social skills and social interaction.

Richard believes that introducing chess to more children will have a positive impact on the way they think, plan ahead and explore new ideas

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Apr – 11 Sept Sensational Butterflies

Did you know a butterfly tastes with its feet, and sees more colours than any other animal? Have you ever wondered how butterflies hear? And did you know some butterflies like to feed on rotting fruit or even tears? Be surrounded by hundreds of butterflies, including spectacular swallowtails, beautiful blue morphos, massive moths and many more in the butterfly house on the Museum’s east lawn. The five sensory zones of sight, smell, taste, hearing and touch will each have fun interactive activities, including a crawl-through chrysalis.

Info: Natural History Museum | South Kensington, London | www.nhm.ac.uk

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Bright young things movie special

Words: Cassam Looch

HOP Release Date: 1 April Rating: Easter might not be the traditional holiday that converts to cinematic success, but this Russell Brand vehicle does a decent job of bringing the eggs and bunnies to the screen. Basically Santa Claus: The Movie re-imagined with the Easter Bunny struggling to live up to the expectations placed on him, and a human (James Marsden) struggling to do anything meaningful with his life. There are a handful of gags for the grown-ups, but it’s mainly aimed at the kids. The special effects are great.

Byline: Photo Credit: Rhythm & Hues Copyright: © 2011 Universal Studios. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Mars Needs Moms Release Date: 8 April Rating: It’s hard to believe that this 3D animation comes from Disney. It lacks the charm of all their previous films and has a confusing message to boot. When a young boy finds his ‘mom’ being kidnapped by aliens he follows them onto their spaceship to try and rescue her. He meets another human onboard and together with a

free-spirited Martian they try and rescue the mother. Apart from some decent 3D moments, this is otherwise very predictable and forgettable stuff.

Winnie the Pooh Release Date: 15 April Rating: It’s just over an hour long, but this fantastic throwback to the ‘Winnie the Pooh’ animations we remember from our youth feels just right.

There are touches that are direct from the earlier versions, but also elements created specifically for this adaptation, and it all comes together wonderfully. There is an adorable title track sung by the equally adorable Zooey Deschanel and

even the usually annoying honey-obsessed bear comes across well. Tigger is of course still the star.

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Apr Southbank Centre Chocolate Festival – Big Chocolate Tea Party Big Chocolate Tea Party The Sick Children’s Trust will be hosting a very chocolate tea party at the Chocolate Festival with help from Lily Vanilli and Channel 5 Milkshake! presenters. Children are invited to come along to the cookery theatre and join in with a variety of chocolate themed games, arts and crafts. There will be goodies and treats on offer and fun for all ages.

This will also be a great

opportunity to learn about the wonderful work the charity is doing and what you can do to help.

Info : 12-1.45pm | Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Rd SE1 8XX | www.festivalchocolate. co.uk

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Apr African Superheroes Day Many artists are making up for the severe lack of positive images of black people in animated films and comics. This animation festival for 6-60 year olds, will feature a variety of African-themed cartoons which tell tales of; Magical Nigerian women warriors, Anansi the West African Folk Hero, The story of Ogun and Oshun, Teenage black superheroes and more. The original 3.5 hour event repeated by popular demand with African Superhero dvds for sale on the day and interviews with animators and directors.

Info: 3pm | Lost Theatre | www.blackhistorywalks. co.uk

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In association with

PLAY OF THE MONTH

Afridiziak Theatre News: for all the latest news, reviews and interviews from the world of African-Caribbean theatre. Join our mailing list: info@afridiziak.com or visit www.afridizak.com.

/ 12 / 19 Apr Opening 05 Sequence: Performed

readings New Vision Theatre’s writing project culminates in a festival of short readings of plays written by emerging playwrights over the age of 25 and from Lewisham. There’ll also be a feedback session at the end of the each evening. Writers included are: Carole Pyke, Thanh Le Dang, Leonora Williams, Rebecca Smith, K A Lockton and Tinaz Denizmen.

Info: 7.30pm | The Albany Theatre, Douglas Way, London SE8 4AG | www. newvisiontheatre.weebly. com

/ 08 April Upswing – the 07 UK’s only black-led

circus troupe presents Fallen This April, Jacksons Lane is delighted to present Upswing’s first fulllength production Fallen following performances as part of the London International Mime Festival. Fallen tells the story of a woman’s escape to a place where dreams reunite her with all she has lost in her flight. Weaving awe-inspiring aerial dance, magical shadow play and animation, with African spirituality and a modern story, this entirely wordless visual show blends art forms to create a touching, human and personal story.

This multi-disciplinary work touches on the universal story of love and loss, dealing tenderly with one woman’s escape from her home and culture in order to stay alive. Fallen

– 16 Apr Misidentity Shadowing the stereotypes and prejudices that we are surrounded by in our everyday lives, Misidentity delves into the circumstances and secrets of those who are so often labelled negatively by society, its agencies and its individuals. Misidentity is a modern day tale of social challenges and self-fulfilling prophecies.

It sets the attention on the interactions, relationships and dreams of a group of young British youths.

We follow the trials and tribulations of

brings together an array of artists including Paper Cinema, best known for their magical live papercut animation shows and composer Jules Maxwell, who has composed music for choreographers such as Wayne McGregor, Jasmin Vardimon and Hofesh Schecter.

Time: 8pm Jacksons Lane, 269a Archway Road, London N6 5AA Info: www.jacksonslane. org.uk

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these authentic young characters learning about the real people behind the stereotypes and witnessing the consequences when their lives are shaken and disturbed by tragic circumstances that change their futures forever.

Is it possible to escape the future that is assumed for you? “Behind every stereotype, there is a

person. Behind every person, there is a story.”

Info: 7.30pm |Lost Theatre 208 Wandsworth Road London SW8 2JU | www. losttheatre.co.uk

Apr- 7 May Funk It Up About 08 Nothin’

misunderstanding, Funk It Up About Nothin’ turns it on its head, injecting energy, funk and the odd rude bit to create an inner-city love story for the masses. Funk It Up About Nothin’ follows other shows by Theatre Royal Stratford East like The Harder They

With the world’s attention turned to London for the Royal Wedding in April, Theatre Royal Stratford East presents an alternative to this straight-laced love story. Taking Shakespeare’s traditional tale of love and

Lime magazine has a pair of tickets to give away. To enter, email competition@ comelime.com with Misidentity in the subject header by 6th April 2011

-09 Apr Tell Hell I Ain’t 07 Comin’

The nationally acclaimed musical Tell Hell I Ain’t Comin’ is a thrilling Broadway calibre musical that has entertained and inspired audiences during its performances across USA including New York, Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago and Atlanta – now London. Tell Hell I Ain’t Comin’ is a thoughtprovoking journey that introduces characters from everyday life and chronicles events that led to their assignment to hell. Some people you will expect to see there while others will surprise you.

Time: 7.30pm /3pm on Saturday Broadway Theatre, Catford, London SE6 4RU. Info: www.dontugo.com

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“DAZZLING. Don’t miss it” NEWS OF THE WORLD SADLER’S WELLS IN THE WEST END

10 – 28 May LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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THEATRE

London Via Lagos W

e caught up with playwrights Lydia Adetunji, Ade Solanke and Arinze Kene. All three of them have plays in the London via Lagos season at Oval House Theatre.

One festival, two countries, three playwrights, ten weeks

How would you describe your play Pandora’s Box and why should people come and see it?

Ade Solanke: It’s a funny play about a serious issue.

Sometimes you have to 16 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

How would you describe Little Baby Jesus And how did you come up with the name?

Arinze Kene: It is as an innocent play that says something else about young people and what we go through when we are growing up. I was inspired by actual events in my life and I just wanted to write the feeling of growing up and the feeling of having something happen to you and how you react to it and are forced to grow up;

as much as you can, be persistent and keep getting your work out.

When things get tough – what keeps you motivated?

Ade: It’s the belief that everyone has a contribution to make to the culture and whatever the obstacles it’s almost a responsibility to put ourselves in the picture and to express our reality.

IGHT What BR advice would you give to someone UN who G THIN wants to do what you do?

Arinze Kene: I’d tell them to do as many favours for people as possible.

Make yourself a service for others. You learn a lot.

Also, get yourself a mentor.

It’s important.

Arinze Kene: When things get tough, and they often do, I listen to motivational audio books. Some people think it’s cheesy and it might be, but it works for me. My brother introduced me to Tony Robbins’ audio books when I was 14 and I’ve been listening ever since. Dr Wayne Dyer is also another one who helps me when things get on top.

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so all of the characters in the play have been forced to grow up quite quickly.

With regard to the name I wrote the play back to front and when I was done there was this theme that kept running through it and it was kind of about people killing their future, unknowingly. That was one of the themes that ran through it and there are also loads of references to Christianity so I just thought about the name and it was the perfect fit.

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How would you describe Fixer and what was the inspiration behind the play?

Lydia Adetunji: It’s a play about a man trying to get by in a world that is difficult. It’s about a man who introduces foreign journalists who are looking for a story in Nigeria to the people who can give them that story. He gets caught up between groups of foreign journalists that are reporting on a fire on an oil pipeline and the militants who are attacking the pipeline. A few things inspired me. I used to work as a journalist so I was interested in journalistic ethics and whether its right or what circumstances its right, for a journalist to use a fixer but then putting that fixer in danger in order to get the story. Also because I used to live in Nigeria and I was sort of amazed at how people were able to get by in difficult circumstances.

make choices that are hard and a parent may have to make choices that goes against what the child wishes are; so it is about a moment like that in a mother’s life. Having been in denial to a certain extent she refuses to acknowledge that her son has gone a little bit off the track and that urgent remedial action is required for him to get back on the right path.

Come and see it and enjoy yourself and experience a different view of Africa. It’s the Africa I know, people who are professional, well-heeled, well-educated, progressing in their lives and doing what they can to develop their families, their nation and their continent and contribute to the world.

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WORDS: Karla Williams

Ade: Practise the craft of dramatic writing, because what the audience decide is king and if your work is going to connect it has to be strong. Really graft at the craft.

Lydia: Keep working on your craft, see and read

Lydia: Try and focus just on today’s work.

Info: The London via Lagos season runs at Oval House Theatre from May 3 to July 10, 2011 | www. ovalhouse.com *Printed courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News.

Visit www.afridiziak.com for the full version of the interviews with all three playwrights*

23 Apr Fire 12–Tango

Following sell-out seasons in New York, Barcelona, Hamburg and Cape Town, Argentina’s hottest dance company showcases some of the speediest footwork and tightest twirling in the business. The sizzling show takes audiences on a journey through the history of tango, from its origins in the dance halls of Buenos Aires through to its growing popularity as a contemporary dance form.

Combining the rawness, sophistication and sexiness of tango, the production evokes the intoxicating passion of Buenos Aires’ late night dance halls.

Info: Peacock Theatre | www.sadlerswells.com -21 Apr Glorious – a 19 musical extravaganza

Glorious is a new musical made in response to some of the big changes that have taken place in our society recently: the financial collapse, climate change – things that affect our everyday lives, but about which most of us feel completely powerless. The show reminds people of the power of one person’s story, embracing the idea that if we come together and listen to each other, anything’s possible - that the future is in our hands.”

- Rajni Shah Info: Barbican Centre, Silk Street London, EC2Y 8DS | www.barbican.org.uk

-21 May Pandora’s Box 03

By Ade Solanke,

directed by Ben Evans On holiday with her streetwise son in Lagos, a British-Nigerian mother is in turmoil. Should she leave her only child in a strict Lagos boarding school, or return him to the ‘battlefields’ of inner London…? A family spanning three generations and two continents meet together in Lagos for the first time in over thirty years. But the joy of reunion also unleashes long-suppressed truths. An exuberant mix of comedy, tragedy and family drama, Pandora’s Box reveals the heartbreak behind the difficult choices all parents must make and the price their children pay.

Info: 7.45pm | Oval House Theatre, 52-54, Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW | www.ovalhouse.com

28 May 2011 10-Flawless

One of the UK’s hottest dance acts, Flawless appeared at Sadler’s Wells’ festival of hip hop dance theatre Breakin’ Convention twice before winning the nation’s hearts in Britain’s Got Talent with their fast-paced routines and jaw-dropping skills.

Winner of the World Dance Champion title, the crew of 10 performers has starred in the number one UK box office film hit StreetDance 3D and worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Madonna, Beyonce and Leona Lewis. The breathtaking show Chase the Dream features the high energy street dance Flawless has become famous for; acrobatic moves and a slick performance style, plus a soundtrack packed with hits.

Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

Info: www.sadlerswells. com

HEADS UP

May – 15 25 June

Little Baby Jesus

By Arinze Kene, directed by Ché Walker Little Baby Jesus is a lyrical triptych of monologues revealing the inter-connected lives of three inner-city teenagers, capturing the exact moment each becomes an adult. Three magnetic personalities are brought to life through the imagination of Arinze Kene, author of the acclaimed sell-out play, Estate Walls and nominee for Most Promising New Playwright and Best New Play (Estate Walls) at this year’s Off West End Theatre Awards. Little Baby Jesus is the recipient of the Mark Marvin Rent Subsidy Award. Arinze Kene is also an actor and

currently plays ‘Connor Stanley’ in EastEnders.

Info: 7.45pm | Oval House Theatre, 52-54, Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW | www.ovalhouse.com June – 10 July Fixer 21

By Lydia Adetunji,

THEATRE

Come (currently in preproduction for its second international tour) and Britain’s Got Bhangra, (the first British Asian Bhangra musical) in pushing the boundaries of musical theatre for new audiences.

Info: Theatre Royal Stratford East | www. stratfordeast.com

directed Dan Barnard and Rachel Briscoe When militants attack a new oil pipeline, British journalists and international spin doctors rush to the scene: everyone wants the inside story.

Chuks, a fixer, could make a lot of money by acting as a go-between for foreign journalists and local groups. But as more players get involved, the stakes get higher and the risks get bigger. Set in northern Nigeria against a backdrop of global turmoil and corruption, Fixer is a fast-paced drama that asks questions about journalistic integrity, loyalty and the price of human life.

Info: 7.45pm | Oval House Theatre, 52-54, Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW | www.ovalhouse.com

Pandora’s Box by Ade Solanke Little Baby Jesus by Arinze Kene Fixer by Lydia Adetunji

Oval House Theatre Kennington Oval, SE11 5SW 3 May – 10 July 2011 Tickets and information www.ovalhouse.com 020 7582 7680

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Cherri Baby W

ith a distinctly eclectic style, Cherri Prince exudes creativity and elegance. Her influences include Sade, Ella Fitzgerald, Bob Marley, Shirley Brown and Diana Ross and The Supremes. Cherri’s debut EP, Listen Hear received rave reviews, with UK and international airplay, including features on Ronnie Herel’s BBC 1xtra show.

I thought your press pictures were stunning and glamorous. How would you describe your style?

Thank you. I like to be expressive and creative, from my songs to my hairstyles, a bit of 1940s to 50s mixed with modern pieces. I like to keep it elegant but fun and a bit edgy, my style is a reflection of my sound.

received well. I’m on a large learning curve at the moment. I started with just a melody in my mind and I’m on my way to realising my dreams, being focused and getting a tangible product has helped me to see that there are no limits to what can be achieved.

Having performed at venues such as Sadler’s Wells and Vibe Bar in London – what do you enjoy most about singing live? Do you have an alter ego like Beyoncé becoming Sasha Fierce?

I don’t think I have an alter ego.

Although my friends say I’m different on stage. I think that’s where I’m meant to be and when I’m in the middle

From Staffordshire to London – bright, young singer Cherri Prince is excited about the future.

I hear your EP Listen Hear is getting rave reviews and international airplay.

You must be proud.

I’m excited and so happy that it has been 18 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

of the whole performance I feel like myself. I feel happy.

Who do you rate in the UK music industry?

I see the people that the general public may not be aware of, and it baffles me how such talent can go unseen.

Mangaliso asi, Madame Pepper, Sarina Leah, Karen Be – all amazing.

Look them up. I’m part of a team called Honour76 and we hold an event called Electric Relaxation at Barrio Central in London’s west end. We take this opportunity to have artists perform who are wonderfully talented so if you want to see talent, you should come down.

What was the first single/album you bought?

I remember having tapes by Diana

Images courtesy of www.michaelantoniou.co.uk

MUSIC

I see the people that the general public may not be aware of, and it baffles me how such talent can go unseen.

Ross and Whitney Houston and the first vinyl I remember buying was from a market stall, it was Salt ‘N’ Pepa, What a Man. Who were your favourite artists when you were growing up – any posters on your bedroom wall?

No posters but I liked what I had heard as I was growing up and i didn’t really divert from it too much, then I moved from Staffordshire to London and became a hip hop fan - still no posters.

Where can Lime readers see you perform over the coming months?

May 1: HMS president Ship, London – a charity event with Restless Beings May 22: The First Lady, Roof Garden Fayre, @ The Queen of Hoxton,EC2 A3JX May 25: Electric Relaxation, Barrio Central, W1F 8PS with Honour76 I GH

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T BR What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a singer?

Have a plan, and stick to it. Have fun but take your talent seriously.

UN G THIN Music the business is a great book! PRS is a must, every songwriter needs to be registered to them to ensure you make some sort of income from the music you are gigging with or that is getting air time, and net work. If you don’t know anyone, go to shows, network make connections, and learn from those you respect and admire.

When things get tough – what keeps you motivated?

The end goal and the need to share. We all have something we feel we need to do and for me its music. I also have some lovely friends around and Honour76 who are never more than a phone call away armed with good advice.

Info: www.myspace.com/cherriprince Info: www.twitter.com/cherriprince

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MUSIC

ery Thursday Hip Hop Karaoke Celebrating 5 Years of HHK, now every week at The Social. Putting a fresh twist on the ancient art of karaoke, Hip-Hop Karaoke lets you get on the mic and act out your rap fantasies to the fullest. A legendary night out.

Time: 6pm-1am The Social, 5 Little Portland St (just off Great Portland st), London Info: www.thesocial.com

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ery Sunday Ace and Vis present Sunday Night Live Sunday Night Live at Aquum, has quickly established itself as one of the best new live nights in London. Held every Sunday with a full live band, SNL plays host to a roster of the UK’s top acts, celebrities and industry professionals.

Time: 8pm-3am Aquum, 68 Clapham High St London SW4 7UL Info: www. sundaynightlive.co.uk

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/02/ * new date 11 Apr * Dwele Producer Andwele Gardner grew up on Detroit’s west side and started writing

songs aged 10, schooled

by Motown greats like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. A demo tape, 1998’s The Rize, mixed hip-hop smarts and smooth neosoul, and won him guest spots and collaborations with the likes of Slum Village and Philadelphia rapper Bahamadia – not to mention a record deal with Virgin, who released his debut album proper, 2003’s Subject. Fast forward to 2010 and Dwele released his fourth album, ‘W.W.W’ ‘Wants. World.

Women’ which confirmed his mastery of slick but streetwise soul/r&b.

Info: 7-11pm | Jazz Cafe, 5, Parkway, Camden, London,NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe. co.uk

02

Apr Southern Hospitality – East Celebrating everything that’s good in hip hop, r&b and music in general - we invite you to Catch, Kingsland Road on the 1st Saturday of every month to a free jam.

Time: 9pm-2am Catch, 22 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch, London E2 8DA Info: www. southernhospitality.co.uk

Lime music review: Tara London album launch, Fairytales and Stepping Stones, Monto Water Rats, March 3, 2011 Lime rating: Words: Natasha Devon Ever wish that Paloma Faith would abandon her tried and tested bluesy style and just rock out? If this thought has ever occurred to you then you will love Tara London. Tara takes her currently en vogue vintage style vocals – husky, folksy and positively oozing soul - and pairs it with Isley Brothers-esque electric guitar, strong beats and plenty of chutzpah. Everything about her stage presence is endearing yet impressive. Her humility shines through an easy and warm persona as she chats between sets, yet as soon as the music begins she’s a sexy siren, shimmying and fixing her smoky, sultry eyes at her captive 20 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Apr Mélissa Laveaux A Canadian artist originally from Haiti , Mélissa Laveaux, barely 24 years old, is one of the discoveries of 2009! Her music is drawn from a deep and intimate knowledge of the global musical milieu, a bilingual raw mix of acoustic soul/jazz and percussive Kreyol folklore, a fresh offering to the folk music scene.

Her poems, recited in her soulful voice, evoke Joni Mitchell, Macy Gray, Nina Simone and Rokia Traoré.

Her repertoire is composed of original pieces of an impressive maturity and freshness only found amongst the best in her field. With this album, Mélissa releases in one blow, all of the creative energy stored during years of learning and straightaway finds the right tone.

Minimalist arrangements privilege the energy and poetic impact of her wording. Her voice, alone, unfurls, majestic and fragile, profound and sensual, furrowed with deep stirring under the immediate seduction, almost reworked and rearranged by the ever-present trilingualism in her life: the fluidity of the English, the nonchalant syncopation of the Kreyol, and the harmonic sophistication of the French.

Info: Purcell Room, Southbank Centre, London, SE1 8XX | www.southbankcentre.co.uk | www.joyfulnoise.co.uk Lime has teamed up with Joyful noise to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to see Melissa Laveaux live at the Southbank Centre. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with Melissa Laveaux in the subject header by April 17 2011.

audience. In short, it’s difficult not to develop a girl crush on Tara.

Tara has clearly worked hard to perfect her vocals. In an industry where overnight success has become the norm, Tara is a seasoned pro, finishing her phrases beautifully, and putting in visible effort to make each note is as polished as possible. She pulls off an impressively powerful vocal, which matches the big sound of her accomplished band mates, but doesn’t work so well on the paireddown acoustic numbers. The band sport a look heavily influenced by the funk bands of the 60s, the boys in pork pie hats and skinny ties and the girls in teeny tiny skirts with enormous hair. However, it feels like a homage, rather than a ploy to show skin or grab attention. You Fall Down is undoubtedly the stand out track of the new album Fairytales and Stepping Stones, which was met with rapturous applause and

demands of an encore from the audience. Tara and her band are charm personified and seeing them live is a highly recommended and genuine pleasure.

Info: www.myspace.com/taralondon For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

What things or people have impacted your music and song writing?

Living in London, there are so many sounds around you. I always used to try and copy the way r&b singers sung, so in a way they taught me how to sing. As I got older, I focused more on song writing and I admire people like Jill Scott and just the way those neosoul artists write about life in a simple but pretty way and that’s had an impact on my music.

WORDS: Alicia Adejobi

In a recent interview, some things I said were taken out of context and I never said that I wouldn’t like to crack America.

Whenever someone asks me that question I’ve always said that I would love to travel and see as many different places as possible and if people like my music then that’s a blessing, it would be amazing. Anywhere that wants Katy B I’ll be there.

Do you associate yourself more with dubstep or funky house?

To be honest I think that dubstep and funky stem from the exact same place which is garage, so they’re offshoots from it. Dubstep is the more experimental side and funky is the more glamorous side of it. I would say I associate with every aspect of the garage culture rather than a specific offshoot. Garage represents different parts of my personality.

Garage represents different parts of my personality.

Dubstep is quite big in America, would you like to be involved in the scene over there?

What can we expect from your debut album?

My first album is a hybrid of the different garage genres. I wrote it when I

was at university between the ages of 18-21, so it kind of just follows the life of a young woman in London.

It’s about love and the trials and tribulations that one goes through. I love the songs on the album, but I have a new favourite every week.

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B What single piece of advice would you give to someone UN G THIN who wants to follow in your footsteps and reach the top of their game?

Whatever it is you want to do keep working at it and take any opportunity that comes your way. Do what makes you happy, you only get one life.

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Did you ever doubt that you would have this success?

When I saw people like Jessie J and Adele come from the BRIT school or YouTube or places like that, it gave me the confidence to know that I could do that too. They’ve got incredible talent. It’s like when you see your friends do well it kind of spurs you on to think ‘I can do what they’re doing.’

YO

How have you found the transition from the underground to the mainstream?

I’m lucky that I’ve had people acting as mentors.

My producer and manager Geeneus used to be in an old garage group called Pay As You Go and he’s helped me on this journey.

Ms Dynamite’s helped me as well and after collaborating on Lights On, she became like a mentor to me. It’s great

because they are all levelheaded.

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aty B, real name Katie Brien, has enjoyed success in the charts with debut single Katy B On A Mission and the follow up Lights On which featured none other than Ms Dynamite. Still reeling from her breakout from the underground scene, Katy has just dropped her third single Broken Record, and is preparing for the release of her debut album On A Mission.

MUSIC

Katy B on a mission

What do you do to keep yourself motivated and inspired when things get tough?

The things that are tough make you more motivated because you feel like you need to do better, so I just work harder.

Broken Record is out now and On a Mission is released on April 4, 2011.

Info: www. katyonamission.com

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Anis Halloway is host on Nigerian Idol, pictured here with co-host Misi Molu that name and he passed it on to me. It means ‘grace’ and is of African/middle eastern origin. Looking back, it all makes sense as God’s grace has been with me.

You qualified to represent Sierra Leone on MTN Project Fame Season Two West Africa in Nigeria. What was it like being in the Fame Academy House?

It was a journey I will never forget – a piece of history that adds to the shaping of my destiny. It ushered me into the Nigerian media industry and I’m grateful for the privilege as it was life changing.

I was sorry to hear that your mother passed away. What do you think she would say

22 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

What was it like cohosting Nigerian Idol?

Nigerian idol is a crazy blessing. I saw the advert flash on TV and I was like ‘wow I’d love to host this’.

I started investigating but couldn’t find any solid information. My heart was broken when I asked a fellow presenter in the industry and he told me he’s been approached already. I remember praying a simple prayer like, ‘Lord, see what I mean? I’m new in this place. There are people born here and have the upper hand and links.

Me, I know nothing or hardly anyone so if you don’t hook me up, I’ll be doomed’. I forgot about it and three weeks later my friend pinged me on BlackBerry Messenger me saying, ‘Dude, would you be interested in hosting Nigerian Idols? There’s a lady I know who works in production and I think they’re still looking for a male host’. I was like ‘What? I thought the spot was taken’? I went for the audition and got a call a week after and I got the gig. I was ecstatic as you can imagine and speechless.

How do you think it compares to American Idol?

It carries the format well, of course the budget is a

lot smaller but it’s great for what we’re working with.

I thought the video to your latest track We Nor Wan Dat, directed

by Nigerian filmmaker Nodash was powerful.

My understanding is that this video is an adaptation of your experience of the Sierra Leonean civil war.

It’s my favourite video and I’m happy with the outcome. Nodash is a great guy. Freetown was a war zone and surviving that period was a blessing. The experience changed my life.

What advice IGHT BR would you give to someone who wants to become a UN G THIN musician?

If you know that it’s in you then go all out. Challenges are bound to come.

YO

I love the name Anis.

What does it mean?

My granddad was Lebanese (dad’s dad) and he gave my dad

about how far you have come and your success?

Wow. I’m sure she would be proud. She prayed for me on her death bed always. She’s a major part of my musical inspiration.

RIP mum.

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B

orn in Sierra Leone, Africa, Anis Halloway is a singer, songwriter who has worked with the likes of Blak Twang and Sway. His musical journey started after travelling to the UK in 2001 to further his education. To improve on his talent he did a course in sound engineering at Lewisham College, south-east London. This helped to nurture his interpretation in song writing and music creation.

Things are looking up for Anis and last year he got his break when he landed the job as a co-presenter on Nigerian Idol. Read on to find out more about this rising star.

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

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MUSIC

Star ANIS

Fresh from hosting Nigerian Idol and in celebration of Sierra Leone’s 50th anniversary of independence this month we caught up with our international Bright Young Thing Anis Halloway.

When things get tough – what keeps you motivated?

I look back at how far God has brought me and sometimes I go back and listen to stuff I recorded back in 2002 to now. This gives me a reassurance that I’m born to do it.

Anis Halloway’s debut album Small Beginnings is out now.

Follow Anis on Twitter: www.twitter.com/anishalloway Info: www.nigerianidol. com

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YO

treated to a set from Parisienne soul star Leslie Phillips’ Soul Trip and onetime r&b wonder T H I N Nathan who now goes by the alias Starboy Nathan. It is an absolute pleasure to watch Leslie Phillips – accompanied by her band and backing singers – mesmerise the room with her spine-tingling, powerhouse vocals. She occasionally sings in her native language, giving the audience a taste of her French roots and making her performance Info: 7pm | Jazz Cafe, 5, Parkway, Camden, London, NW1 7PG | www. jazzcafe.co.uk / www.

KeepTheFaithEvents.com

08 03

Apr Keep the Faith presents UKSoulJam feat. Lifford [Artful Dodger] The original UKSoulJam returns and headlined

by Lifford from Artful Dodger, in addition to his hit single Please Don’t Turn Me On Lifford is the voice behind countless UK produced soulful house and r&b tracks. We mark Easter with a UKGospel Choir double bill with the Camden Gospel Choir and East London Singers.

NeoBlues and Soul from Jesse Gammage and his new EP, soul and spoken word from Geo, Nu Jazz from Kate Threelfall, Blues and Soul from Belle, Folk Soul from Dionne Reid, and Nu Soul r&b from Julie Iwheta. Also the open mic jam open to the public later in the show – email info@keepthefaithnts. com to take part, previous guests in the jam have inc.

Amy Winehouse, Marsha Ambrosius, Jeffrey Daniel and more.

Apr Esperanza Spalding Grammy Award-winning vocalist and bassist Esperanza Spalding is one of the scene’s fast rising stars. She’s come a long way in a very short time, playing with Joe Lovano and Stevie Wonder among others. She returns to London following a sell-out London Jazz Festival show at Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall, to present her new album Chamber Music Society.

Time: 8pm Barbican Centre, Silk Street London EC2Y 8DS Info: www.barbican.org.uk

even more enchanting. It is refreshing to hear raw, natural talent without the support of gimmicks and stage theatrics. Starboy Nathan gave a thoroughly entertaining performance, but it also made us question why he hasn’t had his lucky break yet.

Fresh from supporting JLS on tour, the Come into My Room singer performed his new comeback single Diamonds – an r&b infused love song.

Although he now has a slightly revamped image, Nathan still has his loveable look and with a catchy song like Diamonds N1 0PS Info: www. o2academyislington.co.uk

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Apr Muntu Valdo album launch – The One and The Many Muntu Valdo is already a big favourite on the UK’s increasingly diverse and global scene, an

MUSIC

RIGHT

B Lime music review: Jazz FM Live Music with Starboy Nathan, March 12, 2011 Words: Alicia UN G Adejobi A plush venue with a view that overlooks the bright lights of Kensington, whilst being seduced by the sweet sounds of Jazz is the perfect way to unwind after a busy week. Thanks to Jazz FM, that is exactly what was on offer, as part of their series of Live at The Roof Gardens Kensington concerts.

Tonight (12.03.11) we are

he is sure to finally make the big time. Jazz FM put on a pleasant evening that did well in showcasing fresh, unsung talent.

Info: www.jazzfm.com energetic and uplifting live performer whose one-man show has charmed and delighted audiences both up and down the country and around the world.

The One and The Many showcases Muntu Valdo as an authentic entertainer with genuine mainstream appeal, and both the album

14

Apr Wiley – the Elusive Tour + Tempa T Officially dubbed the ‘Godfather of Grime’, Wiley has sold over a million singles in the past 18 months. The show is rescheduled from Koko on 2nd November 2010 – original tickets remain valid.

Time: 7pm 02 Islington Academy, 16 Parkfield Street, London

Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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BR GHT

MUSIC

SPARK

I hope you are well.

What have you been doing today?

I just finished a photo shoot for Vanity Fair with Jason Derülo. We did not get to speak that much but it was great being there and doing the shoot with him.

Before we get to your music how supportive have your family been of your chosen career?

My parents were great because they did not force me to do anything they were and are supportive of whatever I want to do and so that is helpful for me.

What is this whole thing about you liking Kate Bush?

The thing is Kate Bush was never an inspiration for me growing up I only got to know her from hearing her 24 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Are you getting people comparing you to other artists?

I have been compared to Kate Bush but I also get compared to Adele. Once people hear more of my sound I think they will realise that I am not like many of the people I am compared to.

You are already getting nods from people like Mike Skinner and Fearne Cotton. Has been a quick journey?

I always wanted to do music. When I was 16 I met my manager and that was my first week of college and we have been with each other for over two years. As we have grown and I have started writing more music things have kind of fallen into place.

The support of fans has been brilliant.

You have gone with a relatively unknown producer in the shape of Amor for

Your single Crave is getting lots of praise.

I am happy that as my first single, it is doing well.

Is the album finished?

The album will be released around summer time. I do have a possible name for the album but I cannot tell.

I mix it up on the album and I can’t wait for it to be out.

I GH BR

YO

That must have been surreal.

Yes it was absolutely surreal. I was like ok here I am here getting my hair done with Jason Derülo for a shoot.

So who inspired you then?

I have never had an idol I just like listening to good music. I mean I like Kate Bush but I also like Naughty by Nature, I love big pop sounds, I love Eminem. I like a mix and I think that is what comes through in my music.

your album why?

I had written all my songs before I signed my deal le brilliant sing so it was just a With Spark’s w we find out matter of finding Crave out noe horizon for what’s on th young thing a producer to this bright, ctive sound. produce the tracks. d her distin an I worked with a few producers but advice when I met with that I was given was just Amor it just worked and it keep writing and working was such fun. hard.

UN

T

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T

he great thing about being young is that all dreams and ambitions are possible if you believe it, sometimes it just needs a little time.

Bright young thing, Spark, real name Jess Morgan, 19, is proof of that. Having already supported Janelle Monae and Marina and the Diamonds on tour, the Walthamstow singer has gone from obscurity to a name that has been tipped for success.

song. I grew up listening to Spice Girls, and 5ive but when I was at college I was asked to sing Wuthering Heights and I did not want to do it but I did. After listening to it then I started to listen to more of her music.

G THIN

G

WORDS: Semper Azeez-Harris

What is the best advice you can give to other young singers?

For me the best

Spark’s single Crave is out now.

Info: www.myspace.com/ sparkthemusic Follow Spark on Twitter: www.twitter.com/sparkthemusic Follow Semper AzeezHarris on Twitter: @ repmes

band

/26 Apr Bonobo + full live

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Apr

Adele Adele’s new album 21 and her performance at the Brit Awards last month have both been met with rapturous acclaim as fans welcome the vocally blessed singer back with open arms. Most of the album was recorded in Malibu with the legendary Rick Rubin (Johnny Cash, Jay Z, Red Hot Chilli Peppers) and back in

evolved into an absolute monster show which left the 3000 capacity audience in East London’s Troxy clamouring for more.

Info: 7.30pm | Koko, 1a Camden High Street, London NW1 7JE |www. soundcrashmusic.com

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and his electrifying live performances are sure to cement this reputation even further in 2011.

Info: 7.30pm |Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, 2- 4 Hoxton Square, London, N1 6NU | www. hoxtonsquarebar.com

Apr Raphael Saadiq

Kensal Rise in London with Paul Epworth (Plan B, Bloc Party, Florence). Adele cites Wanda Jackson, Yvonne Fair, Andrew Bird, Mary J Blige, Mos Def, Elbow, Tom Waits and Kanye West amongst others as key influences on 21.

O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, London

After the stunning success of his sold out show at The Troxy, Bonobo is back with his full live band for another mesmerising evening of top quality music. With an extensive touring schedule carrying through from last year to 2011 their live sound has

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YO

I HT Lime music review: Katy BR B, On a Mission Release date: April 4, 2011 Lime rating: Words: Alicia Adejobi UN Garage’s leading lady has G THIN only been in the spotlight for less than a year, but she has wasted no time in making her mark in the industry.

Fresh from graduating at Goldsmith’s University, Katy B stormed on to the radar last summer with Katy On a Mission, which soared to the top of both the dance and indie charts. Katy On a Mission and the follow-up Lights On served as the perfect tasters of what was to come from her debut LP On a Mission.

Katy – real name Kathleen ‘Katie’ Brien – spent three years writing the 12-track album and it is evident the amount of passion she has injected into it. The enticing element about On a Mission is that every track serves as a mixer to create this delectable cocktail that is the finished masterpiece. The 21 year-old has skilfully experimented with a wide range of genres without losing the underground garage vibe we have grown to love her for. On a Mission charts the various emotions and situations one may go through in their love life. Song titles such as Why You Always Here, Disappear and Hard to Get act as sign posts for the various stages of the relationship. Most can relate to Katy when she asks, “Why you always here, complaining in my ear?” and “If you could please just go away…it would make my world such a better place.”

However, it’s not all doom and gloom and there are times when she is “feeling

this is more than fate, so please don’t let me go, my baby.” With each track, the genre effortlessly transitions and one moment you could be skanking out to the grimy Dubstep bass line of Perfect Stranger or Witches Brew, and the next you’re in a blissful abyss with Go Away or the mid-tempo Funky House infused Power On Me. If there were any sceptics in regards to Katy’s singing abilities, they will soon be choking on their words once they hear her outstanding vocals on Go Away. Proving herself as worthy singer, Katy’s piercing notes will without a doubt leave you feeling hypnotised.

Katy recently revealed that she grew up listening to r&b songstress Jill Scott and it seems that Scott’s song writing ability has had a positive effect on Katy’s music. On a Mission is an addictive and consistent record in which Katy has successfully defined herself as an artist. She is one to watch this year so if you’re not excited about Katy B it’s time you were.

Info: www. katyonamission.com

Having started out in the late 1980’s as a member of the groundbreaking r&b group Tony! Toni! Toné!, Saadiq then went on to form the highly successful trio Lucy Pearl in 1999 alongside En Vogue’s Dawn Robinson and A Tribe Called Quest’s Ali Shaheed Muhammed. The R&B Supergroup went on to have commercial hits Dance Tonight and Don’t Mess With My Man. Throughout his career, Saadiq has also successfully produced for the likes of Mary J Blige, John Legend and TLC. Time: 7pm 02 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London, W12 8TT Info: www. o2shepherdsbushempire. co.uk

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Apr Queen of Lover’s Rock Carroll Thompson – album launch Carroll’s highly acclaimed new album launches at the Jazz Cafe. She will be performing all of her Lover’s Rock classics I’m LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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FERS ON OF I T I T E COMP

MUSIC

So Sorry; Hopelessly in Love; Just a Little Bit; Happy Song; Yesterday; Your Love and brand new songs from her forthcoming album, Feels So Good. There will be a special surprise guest joining her on stage. The party continues with top DJs entertaining you until 1am.

Info: 7-11pm | Jazz Cafe, 5, Parkway, Camden, London, NW1 7PG | www. ticketmaster.co.uk

30

Apr Soulbrew Karaoke SoulBrew Karaoke is unlike any other event. Not only have we hand picked the finest selection of soul and disco - from Stevie Wonder to Beyonce - to chose from and a dream team of musicians who have played with everyone from Amy Winehouse and Bonobo to Odyssey and Alice Russell but this time it’s you up on stage with the backing of this expert live five piece funk band.

Last Saturday of the month Time: 8pm-2am Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Road London EC2A 3JX Info: www. soulbrewkaraoke.com

HEADS UP

13

May Fantasia: back by popular demand + full live band For one night only, the incomparable Fantasia will return to British shores to perform an exclusive concert for her UK fans.

The US star, said: “I’m so excited about coming back to the UK and having the chance to once again connect with my fans, the people who love me and have been supporting me through everything. This show is going to be a real special, intimate experience for them and for me”.

Fantasia comes fresh off the

26 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Win a copy of Bilal’s album Airtight’s Revenge back of her 2011 Grammy® Award win for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for Bittersweet – a song taken from her platinum-selling third studio album Back to Me. Info: IndigO2, London | www.ticketmaster.co.uk | www.fantastiaofficial.com

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May Katy B Charging in with three hit singles already to her name, Peckham’s finest Katy B brings us her highly anticipated debut album released on March 28th through Rinse, On A Mission is a genre-defining classic of its times. Katy’s killer combination of natural pop sass, uniquely powerful voice and total immersion in London’s club culture makes her the perfect pop star set to go clear this year.

Koko, 1a Camden High Street London NW1 7JE Info: www. katyonamission.com

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May Devlin 02 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London Info: www.livenation. co.uk

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/ 26 June Glee live in concert After mounting a live stage concert event that played to sold out crowds and great acclaim in four American cities last year, Twentieth Century Fox Television and Glee co-creator Ryan Murphy are proud to announce the Glee cast will travel to Europe to perform on the arena stages of London, Manchester and Dublin this June.

10

Apr Bilal Bilal is known to music fans from his work with artists such as Jay Z, Dr. Dre, Erykah Badu, Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, The Roots crew, J-dilla and many more. A hybrid between soul, rock and Electronica Bilal’s brand new album Airtight’s Revenge was released to critical acclaim in 2010.

Time: 7-11pm Jazz Cafe, 5, Parkway, Camden, London, NW1 7PG Info: www.jazzcafe.co.uk To coincide with Bilal’s London gig at Jazz Cafe, Lime magazine has teamed up with Bilal’s camp to offer you a chance to win a copy of his latest album, Airtight’s revenge. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with AIRTIGHT’S REVENGE in the subject header by April 9, 2011. Please include your full name, address and contact number.

London o2 Arena Info: www.livenation. co.uk

01

-03 Jul Wireless Festival

2011 01 Jul – Black Eyed Peas 02 Jul – The Chemical Brothers 02 Jul - Pulp Info: www.livenation. co.uk

04

/ 10 Nov BlackBerry presents Tinie Tempah w J. Cole Double Brit Award winner Tinie Tempah’s number one, debut album Discovery has sold over half a million copies to date. The album has also spawned two number one singles Pass Out (Platinum) and Written in the Stars (Gold).

As well as his arena tour later in the year, Tinie Tempah will also be rocking crowds at various UK festivals including Wireless with Barclaycard

in Hyde Park.

Info: www.livenation. co.uk / www.tinietempah. com

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/14/15 Nov *extra London dates* Rihanna’s Loud Tour Due to unprecedented public demand Rihanna has added another London O2 Arena show to her Loud tour. The global superstar‘s Loud tour will now stop in 8 cities across the country, including an a phenomenal 7 shows at London’s 02 Arena. The tour will show case all the star’s hits including her brand new mega-hit singles Only Girl and What’s My Name from her new album Loud.

London 02 Arena Info: www.livenation. co.uk

Follow us on twitter @limewithus for free and discounted tickets to the best events in the city

MUSIC

Can I get an Lime has a one to one with Cairo, one third of new London based boy band Encore.

WORDS: Audrey Brown

C

What producers and artists have you collaborated with on your debut album?

We’ve worked with so many like Red One, Davinche, Marcus Jay he’s done stuff with Jessie J, Parker and James and Jerome Williams who did our first single Wind Up. Your debut single Wind Up is out now. What is the song about?

The track is about being in a relationship with a girl that can’t make up her mind if she wants you there or not, so it’s just a ‘wind up, you need to make your mind up’.

You have toured with N-Dubz and Chipmunk and Talay Riley what was that like?

That was amazing. The first time was at a festival in Nottingham, it was mad the crowd was amazing such a big crowd and a big vibe. We are looking forward to the N-Dubz tour that’s coming up too.

What artists would you like to collaborate with?

We have always been inspired by different individual artists, but as a group I’d say Jessie J as she’s up and coming and is mad talented.

I GH

T BR What is the most valuable lesson you have UN G THIN learnt about the music industry so far?

To be persistent, keep it original – consistent persistence.

Encore’s single Wind Up is out now.

S

What do you plan to bring to the music scene that is new and how would you describe your sound?

A new fresh sound that’s different as we are not so polished and clean cut like everyone else. We want to bring that roughness; we cover all kinds of areas and different concepts. We don’t really have a specific name for our sound. We would say we have an Encore sound so you can put us on a Dubstep beat, an r&b or hip hop beat and the formula we put on those beats is the Encore flavour. So right now we just call it Encore sound because we are versatile.

Have you written or co-wrote the songs for your new album?

Yes, we write most of our songs, we are all song writers so we all have an input.

YO

How did Encore come together and why did you choose the name Encore?

We kept bumping into each other at industry parties and became friends. Then we had a session together at my place and the tracks came out pretty good so we went to Richard Castillo the manager of N-Dubz, played him the track and it went from there. As for the name of the group, I was listening to Jay-Z’s album and the Encore track came on and I thought it was the perfect name.

What do you believe differentiates you from other boy groups?

We’re more edgy, we’re rough and we write our own songs, unlike other boy groups. We don’t classify ourselves as a boy band; we are a male group of individual artists that came together.

G

an I get an Encore do you want more?

You will be roaring for more of the new Island Records boy group Encore comprising of three handsome, talented singers and songwriters from London. Rapper Pierre Joseph, 23, Cairo Woodwood, 22, and noted songwriter 21-year-old Mark Asari, who has already penned songs Snap for Tinie Tempah and Sergeant Smash for Talay Riley. They debut single Wind Up was released on Valentine’s Day and their debut album is set for release later this year – in the words of Jay-Z, ‘what the hell are you waiting for?’ Get ready to give Encore a standing ovation.

Info: www.myspace.com/ wantmoreencore

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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07 CLUBS

Apr / 05 May Danny Rampling at supperclub w Atmosphere Danny Rampling, one of London’s finest DJs with a wealth of experience on the music scene, commences a series of monthly nights, Atmosphere at the stylish and sumptuous, supperclub. Danny fires up a sexy eclectic mix during dinner including chilled, lounge and Balearic styles through to current electronic uplifting sounds to fill the supperclub’s dance floor later in the evening.

Time: 8pm-2am Supperclub, 12 Acklam Road, Labdroke Grove, W10 5QZ Info: www.supperclub.com

heart of Central London.

Ladies and gentlemen, if you would like to come shake a leg then it’s exactly the right place to be. Music policy: hip hop; funky house; r&b; old skool garage; club classics etc.

Time: 10pm – late Traffic Night Club, Victoria House, 1 Vernon Place, London WC1A 2EP Info: 07943 927 165

EV

ERY MON The Playground Playing the best in r&b, hip hop, funky house, reggae and club classics.

Time: 9pm - late Sound Nightclub, 1 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7NA Info: vip@gparties.com

EV

ERY TUES Candilicious Music Policy: r&b, hip hop, soul, commercial funky house, reggae and bashment.

Time: 9pm - late Storm Nightclub, 28A Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LE Info: vip@gparties.com

EV

ERY WEDS Different Strokes Phat Cat$, Zay London, Lonyo and MOBO Award winner and Kiss FM DJ Manny Norté playing Neo Soul, 80’s pop, US house, funk and r&b.

Time: 7pm – late Cherry Jam, 58 Porchester Road, London W2 6ET Info: ilovediffrentstrokes@ gmail.com

EV

ERY THURS Urban Fresh A brand new weekly event bringing you the best of entertainment including massive DJ line ups in the

28 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Don’t miss India’s exclusive live set at Back to 95.

KETS IN TIC W N O TITI COMPE

02

Apr Back to 95 – 10th birthday party w special guest and exclusive live show from India Win tickets to the Back to 95 10th Birthday Party with special guest exclusive live show from the legendary Nu Yorican vocal diva, India, flying in from Puerto Rico.

India is the voice and legendary diva from Masters at Work of I Can’t Get No Sleep/ To Be in Love /Voice of Freedom / River Ocean / When You Touch Me and Backfired anthems.

The pioneers of old skool house and garage events, Back to 95, are getting ready to blow out the candles at their hotly anticipated 10th Birthday party.

For their first party of the year and on this special milestone occasion, Back to 95 throw down a great 10th Birthday party at the state-of-the-art Fire and Lightbox complex in Vauxhall.

With a tantalising line up of DJs and hosts from past to present, set to take you back to the original old skool vibe and party atmosphere, this is an unmissable diary date for new and old skool party people.

Main Room: Old Skool Classics with EZ, Matt Jam Lamont, Norris The Boss Windross, Mike Ruff Cut LLoyd, Micky Sims, Daryl B, Jazzy D. MC’s: Buzzard, Creed, DT, PSG, Blakey. Lightbox: Soulful and Vocal house with Bobby and Steve Zoo, Craze, Azi Robinson, Lisa C, Lady T, Justin Credible. Mirror Room: r&b & 80s boogie with The Firin Squad, Lloyd Life, Conspiracy, Sammy Confunktion, Two Four Seven, and Selly J. Info: 10pm-6am | Fire and The Lightbox Complex, South Lambeth Place, London, SW8 1RT |www.backto95.com / www. ravetickets.co.uk / www. theticketsellers.co.uk Lime magazine has three pairs of tickets to give away. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with BACK TO 95 in the subject header by midday, April 1, 2011.

For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

CULBS

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t is hard enough as it is to be getting into DJing when in truth they come two a penny (as the saying goes). Add to that however a father who is the legendary Norman Jay MBE no less and it is a scary proposition. Russ Jay however has not only taken on the task but indeed he has forged a name that is now synonymous with great music and excellent vibes. Under the Loud Minority banner with his cousin Melvo (check his interview on page 31) Russ takes ravers on a musical dreamscape. With their residency at the brilliant supperclub London, Lime got to talk with the pioneer’s son and ask him what he has learned from such an influential figure.

Son of a

Explain the whole supperclub experience and how it works for you? supperclub is all about the uniqueness of the setting, the food, the drink, the service, the staff and the

You are producing already what’s the vibe you are going for and indeed what are the projects you have in the pipeline?

There’s no vibe in particular. Whatever I feel or hear I try to recreate in my computer. But, always with a jazzy feel. Although at the moment, there’s a swing in the direction of nu disco/future boogie and deep house. Keep an eye out for releases by myself and Melvo on Tizz recordings in the next few

1210 turntables are being discontinued, is this a sad day for DJing and indeed is the era of vinyl finally at an end?

You could ask 10 different DJ’s this question and get 10 different opinions. I don’t think it’s a sad day no. Technology and times move on and we need to move with it. My guess is, the guys who use vinyl and stay with it learnt to play on it. As new generations learn to play on CD, vinyl will slowly become extinct.

RIGHT

B Having followed in the footsteps of your famous UN G THIN father what have you learned from him about DJing and how are you different in your approach to DJing?

I learnt a lot from him, not just musically, but the broader picture such as the life of a DJ. I realised from a young age there are a lot of sacrifices that must be made if you want to be successful.

YO

Why are you called Loud Minority?

That came about from the studio we had in our loft at our house! I had musician friends coming around all the time, and being at the top of the house in the loft, the noise we were making filtered downstairs.

Norman constantly had to answer the door to them because I could never hear the door bell. He started calling us the Loud Minority, and the name just stuck.

What’s been the most memorable set you have played and why?

That would have to be Soul II Soul’s Back to Life Tour of Antigua. We were asked to play at the picturesque setting of Jolly Harbour, a wonderful open air bar and venue. We got to play from 4pm playing all the music we love as the sun set behind us, a truly awesome experience.

months. Also, ears to the ground for the Chester Copperpot project!

S

WORDS: Semper Azeez-Harris

soundtrack, and you need to experience it first hand to appreciate how well all of these things come together to give west London the special something it was missing, in my opinion.

G

Russ Jay talks about Norman Jay (his father) and forging his own musical path.

LEGEND Supper Club is all about the uniqueness of the setting, the food, the drink, the service, the staff and the soundtrack, and you need to experience it first hand to really appreciate how well all of these things come together.

Musically I couldn’t have wished for more, and they say the most important part of a structure are its foundations and my ears were unwittingly being trained to the sweetest level in Motown/soul/funk/ disco/boogie/Jazz and rare groove since I was in nappies.

This month Loud Minority will be at We Love supperclub London Friday’s and Saturday’s on April 8 | 10.30pm-3am | www. supperclub.com.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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CLUBS

EVENT OF THE MONTH

Blow Kings of the underground, Egg bring you a new weekly party that is going to blow your Friday Night apart.

Time: 10pm – 8am Egg, 200 York Way, Kings Cross, London N7 9AP Info: www.clubblow. net

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-30 Apr Chaz Royal’s International London Burlesque Week 2011 After the overwhelming and sold-out success of London Burlesque Festival ‘07-09, and the rebranding to London Burlesque Week in 2010, Secrets in Lace partners up with veteran producer Chaz Royal to present the greatest showcase of international burlesque and variety talent, London Burlesque Week 2011. With a packed schedule of high profile events, celebrity following and a loyal and rapidly expanding fan base, London Burlesque Week showcases the most eclectic and diverse acts in burlesque - pushing the boundaries of the art of the strip and the tease to the max and delivering the electric atmosphere of an unbeatable night out.

Info: www.londonburlesqueweek.com

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ERY FRI Relax Award-winning best late night bar in the UK and the best wine list in London by the Independent, Tamarai bar is one of the most sought after late night destinations. Special guest DJ’s each week and video jockey brings alive the multiple LCD screen in the venue specially created video image synchronized to the music. A perfect start to the weekend. Resident dj’s Lloyd Life, VG, JRome, Conspiracy, Nico, Super Philly Guest on Weekly Rotation Pioneer, DJ Sai, Confunktion, Sticky, MA1, Chuckie, Larizzle, Shaun Biggs, DJ 247, Maestro Lee. Music policy: r&b, hip hop, funky house and upfront classics.

Time: 10pm - late Tamarai, 167 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PG

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Info: Lloyd Life 07951 241 164

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ery Fri Bump Expect to hear hip hop, r&b, funky, dancehall, dubstep and booty music. Celebrate your birthday with us, and we’ll bend over backwards to give you the best night ever. On March the Legendary Mighty Moe will be blessing the Mic for a night of classic Heartless crew Mayhem. One third of the Awesome Pioneers of UK music The Heartless Crew. It’s an Honour to have Moe hosting BUMP tonight. Expect one of the most intense, fun live shows you’ve ever seen.

Time: 9pm-4am Plan B, 418 Brixton Road, London, SW9 Info: www.planb-london. com

Groove Lineage weekly Soul Music policy: A mix of all era’s of soul and related roots music i.e rare groove, funk, disco, neo soul, credible r&b; hip hop, 60s/70s/80s/90s soul, boogie, tw-step, afro-Latin-fusion, lovers rock, reggae, and more related grooves.

Info: 9pm-2am | Hobgoblin, 73 White Lion St N1 | www. keepthefaithevents.com

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ERY SAT Love Jam Playing the best in sexy r&b, hip hop, bashment, funky house and party jams. Dress code: sexy and sauve. With Mr Play and Jay Knox.

Time: 10pm-3.30am Inc Club, O2 Arena Info: www.lovejamnights. com Soulful Spirit Every Saturday we cater for the true musical connoisseurs and if you have that soulful spirit join us each and every Saturday for the very best in deep, soulful house music. DJ’s on weekly rotation will be Trevor Fever; Soulful Switch; Gimmegroove Able; Nick Doe; Knowledge; Wez Whynt and Shy. Time: 9pm - late Euphoriom Nightclub and Bar, 1-3 Acton High Street,

London W3 6NG Info: info@euphoriom.org. uk

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ERY SUN Forró

Forró is the longest running weekly Brazilian night in the country. A night where you can get a true taste of Brazil, packed wall to wall with the very people that gave birth to the sounds of Samba. Forró is European, African and indigenous rhythms and has its own distinctive dance. Arrive early for free Forró lessons.

Info: 5.30pm to 12pm | Guanabara, Parker Street, corner of Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW | www.guanabara.co.uk Sunday Afro Matinee Each and every Sunday, gorgeous surroundings and leather sofas awaits you to chill, relax and dance at Sunday Afro~Matinee with friends whilst we play a select mix of Kizomba, Semba and other Lusophones grooves, old favourites and new, keeping us dancing till closing time.

Time: 6pm – late Third Space, 211a Clapham Road, London SW9 0QH Info: www. mdentertainments.org

Follow us on twitter @limewithus for free and discounted tickets to the best events in the city

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Melvo Baptiste talks to Lime about the musical journey that he and Russ Jay have been taking and where they want to go with their Loud Minority outfit.

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Where does the name Loud Minority come from?

The name itself comes from the title of a famous Jazz album by Frank Foster.

While Norman Jay is Good

Times our banner is Loud Minority so for us, it’s our equivalent of ‘Good Times.

You DJ at the increasingly legendary supperclub London what has that been like for you?

We debuted there in January 2010 and it’s been an amazing ride. It was a huge eye opener for us as we had been doing Good Times after parties there for years. Now, all of a sudden, it’s like an all white palace, and the new owners and their team have a fantastic attitude and openness to towards music policy.

The crowd are generally brilliant, they understand it is not another West End club and the music comes first. I obviously have to mention the staff too, they make the experience complete.

What do you think has made Norman Jay such an institution in the

music business?

I think being a pioneer for so many aspects of music, fashion, trends and always staying relevant. Just look at his crowd at Notting Hill Carnival, there’s 20-yearolds singing along to Marlena Shaw’s, California Soul and middle age folk jumping up and down to Dizzee Rascal’s Bonkers.

Norman has a great ear for all genres of music, new and old and that simply cannot be taught.

You are going into production as I understand what’s the vibe you are going for?

Yes, I have indeed. I have always toyed with the idea but just became increasingly frustrated when I wasn’t able to put ideas down myself. I am probably six months into my journey now and loving it. I still have lots more to learn but I’m happy with some of the ideas I have down and it won’t be too

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Minority

Who should we be looking out for in terms of artists for this year?

For the house IGHT scene I have BR to say anything with Hot Natured (Jamie UN G THIN Jones and Lee Foss) as they seem to be the pioneers right now. Deep, sometimes dark house music with some killer disco samples! Have to give a mention to Shab Ruffcutt too, recently discovered his music, and I think he’s name that will be breaking the surface this year! My musical head says Jose James, smooth R n’ B singer who released an album last year and Kira Neris on the Jazz tip, that still rocks my iPod daily!

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Melvo why did you choose to get into DJing and eventually into Loud Minority with Russ?

It was my brother, who funnily enough hasn’t touched a record in about 10 years. He bought a pair of ancient Kam turntables and I learnt to mix but much of the music didn’t do it for me. Before long I was regularly tuned in to my uncle’s Giant 45 show on BBC London 94.9 and trying to obtain as much soulful house from him as I could. I have been involved in parties with Russ since my early teens and that’s how it all began.

long before they are with you.

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could easily drop the same introduction for Melvo Baptiste the nephew of legendary DJ Norman Jay MBE but I expect it would be a little boring and lazy so here’s something a little different. Melvo along with Russ Jay have been blasting the clubbing fraternity with their Loud Minority swagger that seeks musical nirvana-esq bliss through the genres of deep house, soulful boogie, disco classics and in truth anything else that is deemed “good music”.

Now branching more into production it will be great to see his musical influences through the music he creates. I am sure it will be “Good Times” for all involved (I know a tenuous link).

Follow Melvo Baptiste on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ melvobaptiste Don’t miss Loud Minority at We Love supperclub London Friday’s and Saturday’s on April 8 | 10.30pm-3am | www.supperclub.com.

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til 06 Apr 25th BFI London

Lesbian and Gay Film Festival We are currently reviewing all of the BFI’s activities with a view to scaling the organisation to meet the very challenging financial environment. As part of this review, we have looked at a number of options for the London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival and decided to make it a one-week event. We are committed to programming for LGBT audiences and to the festival, particularly as we celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2011. The festival will showcase a broad programme of the best new international queer cinema, alongside highlights from the past 25 years.

Info: www.bfi.org.uk/llgff

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t 08 Apr Thank You Raj, Yogi and Vikram are best friends, business partners, serial womanisers and happily married.

Happy, because their naive wives have no clue that

Thank You

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their husbands cannot resist the temptation of a flutter of the eyelids. This picture perfect world is rocked when Raj’s wife, Sanjana, begins to suspect her husband’s infidelity and hires the suave private detective, Kishan, to tail him. Kishan has built his reputation as a man who saves marriages by getting erring husbands to mend their ways. In this particular case, however, his overwhelming attraction towards Sanjana means he may not be acting with the best of intentions. What follows is a crazy cat and mouse game, with Kishan trying to catch the husbands engaged in misdemeanours and mischief as they try to mislead him off their trail.

Info: www. thankyouthefilm.com

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- 10 Apr Images of Black Women Film Festival – 7th anniversary

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Apr Blood Ah Goh Run + Documentary Masterclass with Menelik Shabazz Alongside a screening of Blood Ah Goh Run, his 1982 documentary looking at the horror of the New Cross Fire of 1981 and its aftermath in the Black People’s Day of Action (13min), the director will lead a discussion about documentary filmmaking practice and its potential as a medium for change.

Info: 11am |BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, London SE1|www. bfi.org.uk

09 A selection of films including I Will Follow; For Colored Girls; Chica and Rita and Miles of Styles will present a selection of short films by Destiny Ekaragha.

Info: www. imagesofblackwomen.com

Apr BFI’s African Odysseys: The Story of Lover’s Rock Menelik Shabazz (Burning an Illusion) charts the rise of Lovers Rock, often dubbed ‘romantic reggae’, through a rich collage of live performances, archive footage and still photographs. The historical context and political significance of the music are given as much importance as the dance and the fashion trends the genre gave rise to. Humorous and insightful comments by dub poet Linton Kwesi Johnson and comedians such as Angie Le Mar and Glenda Jaxson provide the perfect backdrop to a film that’s bound to rejuvenate interest in a music genre unjustly ignored by the mainstream media.

Info: 2pm |BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, London SE1|www.bfi.org.uk

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t 22 Apr Dum Maaro Dum Dum Maaro Dum is a high octane compelling tale of sex, drugs and scandal set against the stunning backdrop of one of the world’s most famous tourist hotspots Goa. Featuring some of India’s most reputable film stars, Bipasha Basu and Abhishek Bachchan, as well as rising stars Prateik Babbar and Rana Daggubati, Dum Maaro Dum tells the story of six characters whose lives change forever when they become embroiled in the shady and perilous world of the region’s drugs mafia.

Info: www.dummaarodum. com | www.twitter.com/ dummaarodum

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Apr BFI’s African Odysseys: Wend Kuuni A gentle fable set in precolonial Africa, about a mute boy who is found starving in the bush and raised with love and kindness by the Mossi tribe. How Wend Kuuni (God’s Gift), as the boy is named, comes to regain his speech provides the narrative shape of the film, a tale which also recalls the manners, mores and rituals of a time of peace and plenty.

Info: 6.10pm | BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, London SE1|www. bfi.org.uk

For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

SCREEN

Words: Cassam Looch

Film review: Source Code Lime rating: Release date: April 1 So Blockbuster season arrives with director Duncan Jones’ follow up to Moon. It’s a smart and twist-filled sci-fi adventure and boasts a great performance from Jake Gyllenhaal, but the film fails to live up to the standards we were hoping for. Captain Colter Stevens (Gyllenhaal) suddenly wakes up on a speeding

train. With no recollection of how he got there, Stevens slowly realises he is inside somebody else’s body as a fellow passenger (Monaghan) tries to talk to him. As he tries to piece together what is happening a huge explosion rips through the carriage killing

everyone on board. Stevens wakes up again, this time in an isolation booth and so the mystery is revealed as he is asked to relive the same 8 minutes on the train again to prevent the explosion from happening.

It’s a great concept, although readers of a

certain age will instantly think Quantum Leap based on the synopsis. There’s nothing wrong with the movie, it just lacks the ‘x-factor’ of the best sci-fi films of recent years.

Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Vera Farmiga, Michelle Monaghan, Jeffery Wright

Lime’s April Movie reviews Film review: The Extraordinary Adventures of Adele Blanc-Sec Lime rating: Release date: April 22 Intrepid reporter and explorer Adele Blanc-Sec (Louise Bourgoin) will travel the globe to help her sister, even if her cause seems to be beyond mere mortals. As a trip to Egypt to bring back mummies to Paris is underway, the French capital is itself under attack from a prehistoric creature swooping in from the skies. All the strands are connected and only Adele can save the day. It’s utterly bonkers, but there is a resolute charm that gets this French flight of fancy through to the end.

A large proportion of what

is good ican be attributed to the alluring presence of Louise Bourgoin as the unstoppable force of nature that is the lead character. Think Indiana Jones meets Lara Croft with a dose of Gallic ‘Je nais se pas’ all directed by maestro Luc Besson. A fun and frothy adventure that zips along with great special effects and some very amusing moments.

Cast: Louise Bourgoin Mathieu Amalric

Film review: I Saw the Devil Lime rating: Release date: Cinemas, April 29; DVD/ Blu-ray, May 9 A startling, shocking and brutal slice of South Korean cinema, I Saw the Devil will leave you wrecked both physically and mentally by the time it ends, but it’s completely worth the effort.

A security agent (ByungHun Lee) listens in horror as his fiancée is taken by sadistic serial killer (Minsik Choi) and soon after her dismembered remains are found by the police. As the killer merrily goes on his way he doesn’t count on the lengths that the agent will go to for revenge. As a violent game of cat-andmouse begins, both men go to extremes to ‘win’ the battle. Director Jee-woon Kim has shown of his visual flair in the past with ‘The Good, The Bad and The Weird’, but this is on another level. Apart from

the inventive violence, there are some outstanding moments of filmmaking including one scene in particular that combines both elements as we see the camera spiral around a taxi cab as the occupants engage in a three-way knife fight. One of the best films of the year, and puts the pale imitators from Hollywood to shame.

Cast: Byung-Hun Lee and Min-sik Choi LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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espite many ethnicities and cultures retaining ceremonies and traditions to celebrate a young person’s transition from childhood to adulthood, there’s a wide selection of films that broach the coming-of-age subject with surprising dexterity.

THE BREAKFAST CLUB (1985)

Dir. John Hughs Quintessentially, this movie is a one-stop shop for all teachings of teenage angst and adolescent romance. It’s full to the brim with stereotypes and quotable one-liners straight out of the 80s and unashamedly oozes hairspray and bleached denim. It sits firmly within the affectionately named ‘Brat Pack’ genre which consists of films about teenage love and social cliques in 1980s American high schools (also look out for St. Elmo’s Fire and Pretty in Pink). A moving and funny, massively character-driven piece that answers all your questions if you ever wanted to know what a princess, a geek, a goth, an athlete and a criminal all get up to on a Saturday morning detention.

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LIME’s top 5 coming of age movies BOYZ IN THE HOOD (1991) Dir. John Singleton The following extract appears on screen before the opening scene.

“One out of every 21 black American males will be murdered in their lifetime.

Most will die at the hands of another black male.”

John Singleton’s classic set in South Central LA, 1984 depicts the lives of a group of childhood friends growing up in an LA ghetto. Often painful to watch and executed with stark realism, it was nominated for Best Director and Original Screenplay at the 1991 Oscars. Singleton was both the youngest person and the first African-American ever to be nominated for the award. The themes of absent fathers, the importance of positive male role models and friendship run throughout the film and are dealt with responsibly and creatively by this groundbreaking director.

GOOD WILL HUNTING (1997)

Dir. Gus Van Sant Everyone loves it when Robin Williams plays it ‘straight’. Perhaps his turn in One Hour Photo was a little too straight but it’s performances like this in Good Will Hunting where he flaunts his natural flair, that illustrate his ability to

Boys In The Hood

find the most personal and poignant part of a story and drive it home with such brio and sensitivity.

Penned by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon and staring the dynamic duo too, it tells the story of a young troubled mathematics genius who chooses to work two blue-collar jobs.

He meets a therapist who helps him make the most of his gift and understand his place in life. Kleenex alert! Number of dry eyes in the house = zero.

Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN (AND YOUR MOTHER TOO) (2001)

Dir. Alfonso Cuarón Set in Mexico in 1999, we are regularly reminded of the country’s changing political landscape due to the end of a 71-year reign by the Institutional Revolutionary Party and the rise of the Christian Democratic Party. This colourful road movie follows two teenage boys (Julio and Tenoch) and an attractive older woman (Luisa). They embark on a journey across Mexico to a fictional beach called La Boca del Cielo (Heaven’s Mouth). Along the way there are several revelations and encounters and we learn that Luisa is withholding a secret that the boys will learn only when their adventure comes to an end.

There are at least two or

In honour of our Bright Young Things issue; here’s a selection of films about the teen to adult transition.

WORDS: MICALLAR WALKER

three controversial scenes and one in particular that you probably wouldn’t want to watch with your parents in the same room.

AN EDUCATION (2009)

Dir. Lone Scherfig Raised eyebrows to the ready for the ‘nuts and bolts’ of this heart-stopping story set in 1960s suburban London; Jenny a vulnerable 16-year-old studying for her Oxbridge exams is manipulated and seduced

by David a playboy nearly twice her age. Jenny’s parents welcome the stranger into their homes and even allow him to whisk their daughter off to Paris for a ‘dirty’ weekend.

Carey Mulligan’s Jenny flutters naively through this story of sex abuse and class shame beautifully against the colourful period backdrop and we are resolutely reminded that ‘bad guys’ living on the edge of society don’t always appear with compulsory props like lollipops or dirty raincoats.

David Lucas reads from his new children’s book Lost in the Toy Museum. Drop-in / age 4-11.

Info: 1pm | V&A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA | www. museumofchildhood.org.uk

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A blockbuster exhibition which looks at Balinese culture and dance featuring captivating film and photography from the 1930s, beautiful costume and spectacular artefacts.

Info: Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, London SE23 3PQ | www. horniman.ac.uk

communicative power of the human figure.

Gbolahan employs symbols and motifs that convey issues such as aggression, religion, heritage, sexuality and social relationships.

His figurative abstraction endows his paintings with a sense of recognition across a universal spectrum and an uncanny sense of mysterious wonder.

Info: arc Gallery, Barge Belle, 11 Hale Wharf, Ferry Lane, London N17 | www. artarc-collective.com

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Apr Spring and Easter Events at the V&A Museum of Childhood: Lost in the Toy Museum

Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

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Horizons, our first exhibition of 2011, spotlights recent works by the Nigerian abstract expressionist painter, Ayoola Gbolahan, whose work maximises the

On

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Apr – 11 Jun Walking Drawings Across the Estuaries A film and photography exhibition showcasing

going...

African Worlds The first permanent exhibition in Britain dedicated to African art and culture, African Worlds celebrates the continent’s diversity, history and creativity. It brings together a rich mixture of sculpture and decorative arts explained through the voices of elders, maskers, drummers, diviners, artists, exiles, curators and anthropologists. Objects from across Africa are displayed from Egypt to Zimbabwe, and from African related cultures including Brazil and Trinidad.

Info: Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, London SE23 3PQ | www. horniman.ac.uk

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Apr – 08 Jan 2012 Bali – Dancing for the Gods

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I HT -21 Apr This exhibition BR Young features paintings, Artists from sculptures, short Palenstine films and video [part II] works by young A selection of artists from Gaza, UN work by winners G THIN Ramallah, Bethlehem and finalists in and Jerusalem. the 2010 A. M. Qattan Featured artists include: Foundation’s Young Abdallah Al Ruzzi; Ayed Artist of the Year Award Arafah; Jumana Manna is showcased in the and Dina Matar. The UK for the first time. exhibition reflects the The biennial award views of young people in – organised by the the region, which may be Foundation’s Culture and of particular interest at a Arts Programme in the time when all eyes are on Occupied West Bank city the Middle East. of Ramallah – is open to Info: The Mosaic Rooms, young artists under 30 of 226 Cromwell Road Palestinian descent, from London SW5 0SW | any part of the world. www.mosaicrooms.org

the landmark public art installation by artist Evewright, which took place on Silecroft Beach in Cumbria last year.

Walking Drawings are a series of live public art installations by London based artist Evewright.

Over the last six years he has been creating largescale drawings, using selected ‘sandscapes’ along the British coastline as his canvas. Using landscape tools and an old -fashioned tractor, Evewright creates his drawings in the sand and then invites members of the public to walk the lines in various formats.

Info: Wed- Sat 1pm - 6pm | Four Corners Film, 121 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 OQN | www.evewrightstudio.com

GALLERY

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH

Evewright Walking Drawings – Horses

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Apr Mothering Sunday Mothering Sunday in the UK is the equivalent of Mother’s Day in other countries. It is a Christian festival and falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent.

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social standing. It is insightful, heartwarming and I highly recommend it.

Follow us on twitter @limewithus for free and discounted tickets to the best events in the city

REVIEW

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Lime book review: I Did Not Come To You By Chance by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani Words: Jacqueline Auma Lime rating: IGHT BR Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s I Did Not Come to You

By Chance tells the story of Kingsley a UN graduate fresh out G THIN of university who is eager to find a job so he can support his family and marry the girl of his dreams. However times are hard in Nigeria and despite numerous applications the jobs are not coming. When his father becomes ill, the family is left with no income and the pressure on Kingsley, the opara of the family, intensifies. In desperation he turns to his wealthy uncle, Boniface-aka Cash Daddy and thus enters the murky world of 419 scammer. Although the plot is a bit simple with too many clichés, this is still a humorous easy to read book that deals with contemporary problems in Nigeria giving voice to people we do not normally hear from because of their YO

Apr In Celebration of my Sisters – 15th anniversary This mother’s day join host Brenda Emmanus in a celebration of 15 years of this iconic show. Featuring the shows most requested acts, the show will feature comedy, dance and music to celebrate International Women’s month plus an all male tribute to the sisters. Hosted by: Brenda Emmanus and Janelle Oswald. With: Queens of Lovers Rock; Janet Kay; Carroll Thompson; Paulette Tajah; Lorna G; Winsome; Felicity Ethnic; Donner Spence; Llewelia Gideon; Angie Le Mar; Malika Booker; Dorathy Smart; Ellen Thomas; Dona croll; The Black V; Adelaine; Mckenzin; The brothers; Peter Hunningale; Victor Romero Evans; Paul Dawkins; Sean Cummings; and Travis jay.

Info: www. hackneyempire.co.uk

life was present to show support against the government cuts. Don’t believe everything you see in the media about this event as there was little trouble. Over half a million people attended from all over the UK and there was more of a carnival atmosphere. It was safe and well organised. Personally I feel it’s time to be counted and if we are against the policy of this draconian government its time to stand up, demonstrate and be counted.

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Report on the March 26 Protest in central London Words: Natasha Julien, radio tutor and Lime contributor Saturday, March 26, I joined a group of teachers from Kensington and Chelsea college to show support to the University and Colleges Union [UCU] to join in solidarity with the Trade Union Congress [TUC]. There were people in wheelchairs, mums with babies in arms; every walk of

EVENT COVERAGE

COMMUNITY

Apr Meet World War II Veterans from Jamaica During this session there will be a short history presentation on the African services men and women who played a vital role in World War II. Then there will be questions from the ‘Children’s Panel’ followed by questions from those in the audience.

This is a rare opportunity to meet a war veteran let along one from Jamaica.

- Bring pen and Paper to make notes - Bring a packed lunch Info: 10.30am | BFI Belvedere Road, South Bank, SE1 8XT | Gold.

Onyx@yahoo.co.uk

COMMUNITY A Mifumi outreach volunteer gives an anti-domestic violence speech to local men

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ifumi, a Bristol-based organisation protects women and young girls in Eastern Uganda from the emotional and physical abuse which often results from the practice of bride price.

Sisters Evelyn Schiller and Atuki Turner set up Mifumi in the late 1980s after witnessing the brutal way that women were treated in their home country of Uganda. Atuki recalls seeing women being savagely beaten by partners, young women with their genitals cut and women tied to trees where they were tortured and tormented.

Shortly after studying law at university Atuki met her English husband Glyn and moved to the UK and set up Mifumi with her sister.

Since then Atuki and Evelyn have dedicated their lives to fighting for women’s rights. Both women work from Mifumi’s UK office, which carries out the initial groundwork; of applying for grants, conducting research and liaising with the Ugandan office in order to run the projects on the ground.

“Bride price is a slave-like practice which dehumanises women and turns them into commodities,” explains Evelyn. “Previously all men had to pay a bride price to marry, which was given in livestock and meant that a woman was a man’s property and he could do whatever he wanted with her. It was common for women to be beaten and abused.”

Evelyn adds that the younger the girl, the higher the price paid to her parents for marriage, which resulted in many young girls being sold into

Images courtesy of Mifumi

Mifumi’s Feel Free Education Pack has helped to raise Ugandan schoolgirls’ expectations in life

UK-based African Diaspora fights to ban bride price

marriage. One victim who visited a Mifumi supported project is Mary, who was 14-years-old when she was sent by her father to her aunt’s house for what she thought was a routine visit. Suddenly, she found herself married to a man she had never met before, who paid her father a bride price and locked her up in a hut to ensure that she did not escape. The schoolgirl was verbally and sexually abused and later fell pregnant.

When Mary’s mother, who was also pregnant at the time, confronted her husband about this he physically assaulted her.

“It was so socially acceptable we thought, ‘how are we going to tackle bride price? It’s like tackling culture.’

Even the priest wouldn’t marry you if you hadn’t been paid a bride price.

We were scared of making enemies everywhere and bringing down all the good work that we had done.” says Evelyn.

To overcome cultural and traditional resistance Mifumi consulted with local churches, gaining the support of many religious figures. Mifumi then created the Women’s Safety Forum in the Ugandan province of Tororo,

which still provides much needed support from abuse. The Community Safety Forum of key men from the area also shame abusers and make them think about their behaviour.

To free the younger generation from the cycle of ‘acceptable’ abuse Mifumi provide Feel Free education packs across schools in Eastern Uganda, which has made a real difference.

“Girls’ expectations in life have been raised and many are hoping for a career. Now, for the first time we have girls taking a stand against bride price and refusing to be married off. We have girls reporting that they think their parents are planning to sell them into marriage. Crucially, we also have victims of bride price coming to us with the realisation that there is help available for them, as is the case with Mary and her mother.

Thanks to Mifumi Mary and her mother were given counselling, support and guidance, medical treatment and a start-up pack enabling them to set up a business and rent a property. Now mother and daughter have both given birth and are successfully managing their lives.

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RIP SMILEY

COMMUNITY

CULTURE

1963-2011

The mysterious case of Smiley Culture’s death

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was deeply shocked to hear of the sudden, untimely death of UK reggae pioneer Smiley Culture, 48, real name David Emmanuel, who died whilst in police custody during a raid on his home on March 15th.

Official statements from the police have been scarce since the news broke raising concern regarding how and why Smiley Culture died, until more information is known the circumstances of death appear suspicious.

Like many who were around when Smiley had his UK chart hits – I was a fan. He was one of the first UK reggae acts I saw live as a teen in Brixton with The Clash.

He crossed boundaries musically, culturally and in language mixing Jamaican patois and London cockney phrases within contemporary reggae. His hit Cockney Translation [1984] compared the two colloquial languages.

Smiley’s anthem Police Officer [1984] which was about being stopped by the police in his car and searched – a familiar subject back in the days of the “sus” law, “stop and

Cockney Translation

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This tribute piece to Smiley Culture was written for Lime magazine by Paul Aaaron, [www. keepthefaithevents. com ] with thanks to DJ Elayne Smith, Colourful Radio, Asher Senator, Tippa Irie, Merlin Emanual and Smiley Culture’s family.

Our condolences go out to Smiley’s family at this time. for Smiley’s family at this time.

Justice for Smiley Culture

search” type policing of that era when the track was made. His impact and groundbreaking effect has been fundamental and long lasting. Smiley was the blue print for UK MCs and rappers which followed him from Rodney P to Dizzee Rascal and Chipmunk. At Smiley Culture’s peak of fame he had his own TV show on Channel 4, Clubber Vision, he appeared in an ad for Natwest and also Wagon Wheels, and in the Brit film Absolute Beginners.

His influence was felt the world over, particularly in the reggae scene.

Plans were in the works for Smiley to appear on UKSoulJam, it would have been my dream MC line up and was a long term goal to see him recognised and re-discovered by a younger generation.”

Last week, shortly after the sad news broke some close friends, family and colleagues of Smiley spoke with DJ Elayne Smith on her Colourful Radio show.

DJ ELAYNE ON SMILEY CULTURE: “Smiley Culture was a gentleman.

It was always a pleasure

to see him, full of energy, positivity, inspirational attitude for life. I consider him ‘family’ in the sense we grew up together in the industry.”

TIPPA IRIE ON SMILEY CULTURE: “Smiley was one of the first, in 1984, at the time (of his hits) it was rare to even see a black guy on TV, he spoke about life experiences that we went through at that time.

Smiley and Asher were creative and original”.

ASHER SENATOR ON SMILEY CULTURE: Asher Senator, Smiley Culture’s long term musical partner and collaborator in the Saxon Sound system reflected: “We used to copy the Jamaican DJs, but then started to write our own things. He was never fully out of the music industry, he did many things including helping Glamma Kid”.

MERLIN EMANUEL ON SMILEY CULTURE: Merlin Emanuel is Smiley’s nephew a producer, artist and CEO of S.O.U.L Recordings. Merlin is also designated representative

“My uncle, was a great mentor who taught by example, he had time for anyone who approached him and would give good advice and support when he could. At the height of his fame – Smiley turned down a big part in a film to play a ‘bad guy’ character giving the reason that he wanted to be a good role model instead. Regarding the police raid; we have to remain rational about this; even though we do know he died under the most peculiar circumstances.

We are planning a march from Wandsworth Road to Scotland Yard taking place on April 16th, we are also planning a bigger event which will include many well-known celebs to highlight Smiley dying in mysterious circumstances in police custody and all others who’ve had relatives who’s died in mysterious circumstances whilst in police custody. This is the beginning of a long journey to achieve the justice we seek. We want a competent, robust, rational explanation of what happened to Smiley and we’ll use everything in our means to achieve that. We want to protect Smiley’s Legacy so his memory is treated with the reverence it should be remembered with.”

Info: www.facebook.com/ Campaign4Justice 4SmileyCulture or www.twitter.com/ Justice4SmileyC

Apr African Market Many stalls, drumming circle, homemade food, workshops, African arts and crafts, fashion, jewellery, natural skincare, music, books, DVDs, arts and more. Every third Saturday of the month.

Info: 12-6pm | Open the Gate, 33-35 Stoke Newington Road, London N16 8BJ | www. openthegate.org.uk

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Apr Black Reading Group: The Hairdresser of Harare by Tendai Hucbu Like very good dark chocolate this is a delicious novel, with a bitter-sweet flavour.

Vimbai is a hairdresser, the best in Mrs Khumalo’s salon, and she knows she is the queen on whom they all depend. Her situation is

Apr Lorlett Hudson presents Developing the Leader within You Each seminar is designed to motivate, and inspire you to grow in confidence, self awareness and equip you to take a starring role in your own life.

Info: 9.30am – 1pm | The Grange Fitzrovia Hotel, 20-28 Bolsover Street London, W1W 5NB | www.onehandcantclap. co.uk

HEADS UP

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Nov Third Annual Black Youth Achievement Awards Nominations will be open from April when the brand new website is launched.

The Brewery, London Info: admin@ blackyouthachievements. org

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Trey Songz teams up with Damilola Taylor Trust to inspire youth Words: Alicia Adejobi

reversed when the good-looking, smooth-talking Dumisani joins them. However, his charm and desire to please slowly erode Vimbai’s rancour and

when he needs somewhere to live, Vimbai becomes his landlady. So, when Dumisani needs someone to accompany him to his brother’s wedding to help smooth over a family upset, Vimbai obliges. Startled to find that this smart hairdresser is the scion of one of the wealthiest families in Harare, she is equally surprised by the warmth of their welcome; and it is their subsequent generosity which appears to foster the relationship between the two young people.

Info: 3pm |Waterstones, 203/206 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD | www.triciablackbooknews.co

COMMUNITY

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NEWS

TH US r&b singer Trey Songz was enlisted as spokesperson for the Damilola Taylor Trust this week, when he took to the stage at London’s City Hall on Monday, February 28, 2011.

The Trust, in collaboration with TV network BET, held the one-off event to inspire and empower young children. Following an introduction from Kat, the evening’s host and comedian, London Mayor Boris Johnson gave a brief speech in which he applauded the work of the Trust – before offloading some awkward jokes. The Damilola Taylor Trust is well-renowned in London for its tireless work in helping young people realise their talents and ambitions. Founder Richard Taylor, OBE, asked Songz to become a part of the event, after hearing about his work in the US with underprivileged youths. Much to the delight of the screaming audience – mainly the females – Songz gave a heartfelt and honest speech about his rough childhood, before answering some interesting questions from Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

US r&b singer Trey Songz with UK actor and rapper Ashley Walters who is patron to the Damilola Taylor Trust

individual audience members. In addition to the speech from the Can’t Help but Wait singer, other highlights of the evening included a beautiful poetry piece from Dean Atta and a powerful performance from 15-year-old singer Kimora.

The event is the first of its kind for BET, whose international director Mike Armstrong, hopes to continue

involving the network in inspiring young children to achieve their goals. The Damilola Taylor Trust will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year. The organisation was set up by the parents of 10-year-old Damilola Taylor who was stabbed with a broken bottle on the streets of south London.

Info: www.damilolataylortrust.com

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I HT Lime event review: BR African Writers’ Evening: Where Africa Speaks and the world listens Words: Tricia UN Wombell G THIN The first African Writers’ Evening of 2011 took place March 25 at the Southbank Centre. Hosted by the irrepressible Nii Ayikwei Parkes, it was a new venture for the well-loved events that have in the past taken place at the Poetry Cafe.

The intimate Poetry Café events will still continue, but the Southbank venue enables a wider and bigger audience to see and hear new and newly established poets and authors perform and talk about their work to what is still very much a close knit and welcoming audience. I loved the way that Nii recognised that on a joint panel the audience will steer their questions to the author or work that they’ve already know most about, and so this time the young poets came up and performed their chosen work one-by-one, followed by their own question and answer session. First up was Luul Hussein, still at school she plans to study journalism at university. I have to tell you that she is awesomely talented.

Her poem Rocking-Side-to-Side, about unrequited young love, made you laugh at its poignancy and exhale when you recognised the punch line (and title) is actually all about teenage suicide. While Luul

was an assured performer, she was also a sweetly shy and engaging interviewee, who is already clear that life was ‘a battle for happiness’ and it was ‘hard - ‘you got to get over it’ when asked where she gets her ideas from. Kayo Chingonyi was already at the stage where you could easily see Luul will be at in a few short years. He was a terribly confident performer who changed styles and rhythms throughout the five poems that he performed. My favourite was Red Shift - about an ageing of a man with an obsession for the colour red. Think of all the words that you know that describes that

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There are eight categories this year :Arts IGHT Business and BR Enterprise Choices Community Education Sports UN G THIN Technology

(or an organisation) who has supported them; for example a mentor, coach, youth or social worker. Previous winners of ‘Black Youth Achievements’ have said that they feel so happy to be acknowledged for their hard work and determination, and that winning has motivated them to aim even higher and help others succeed in their journey. Kay Oldroyd the founder and director of the company said ‘We are launching our brand new website in April, just in time for the nominations. We’ve had so much fun in 2009 and 2010 and this year we expecting to take the event to another level. The brand of BYA is now well recognised and we’re very proud that it’s instantly linked with positivity and empowerment.’

Info: admin@ blackyouthachievements.org | 020 8677 8009 | 07908 258 681 colour - and I am sure that you won’t think of them all - but Kayo managed to include everyone in this short poem. It is a gorgeous riff on red that ends with sense of sheer exhausting incompleteness.

Brilliant. The keynote of the evening was Nadifa Mohamed, the author of Black Mamba Boy, who had appeared at an African Writers’ Evening a while ago.

This is where Nii’s accomplished programming really came alive, because Nadifa was returning not only as a published author, but also with a long list of prize nominations to her name and as the current holder of the Betty Trask Prize.

Black Mamba Boy has been hugely acclaimed, and it was lovely to hear Nadifa read from a work that clearly means so much to her. Sadly she has decided that this will be her last reading from the book, and so she allowed the audience to select the bits that she read out. That was a beautiful touch that worked well, with what is clearly an intimate work for her, based as it on her father’s upbringing in Somalia and his travels cross North Africa to Europe during the 1930s.

The next Africa Writers’ Evening will take place in May. Follow African Writers’ Evening on Facebook: www. facebook.com/africanwriters and www.twitter.com/AfricanWriters Info: Tricia Wombell blogs at Black Book News www.triciablackbooknews.com

REVIEW

Nominations for the 2011 awards will open on April 14th, and BYA are inviting you to submit a nomination for someone who deserves recognition of their personal success.

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Black Youth Achievements (BYA) – The Awards are back for their third successive year

CULBS

Family Matters Your Essential Guide to Fostering and Adoption

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FAMILY COMMUNITY MATTERS

Adoption: F

First contact

or some adoptive parents, contact with their new child’s birth family is something that can bring a nightmare of insecurity and fear. Will it mean their child will reject them? What if the birth parent doesn’t like them? And worst of all, what if it prevents the child from learning to love their adoptive family?

It’s an entirely natural fear, and one that increasing numbers of adopters are having to face, as more and more agencies involved in adoption recognise the huge range of benefits that contact with birth relatives can bring.

But it’s not just the children who can gain from such arrangements.

Research has shown that both birth families and adoptive parents can reap great rewards from helping children to retain links with their origins.

And as a result, adopters are now learning that there is nothing to fear and in fact, everything to gain from allowing, and even encouraging, their children to keep in contact with those from their past.

Jonathan Pearce, director of Adoption UK, the national charity and network of self-help groups for adoptive parents, agrees.

He said: “It’s a very complicated issue, but generally, it’s absolutely essential to maintain contact with birth families, and the majority of adoptive parents would agree with that.

“It’s crucial that children have a good knowledge 42 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

about their history and heritage, because if they don’t, problems can arise.

In the past, adoptions were veiled in secrecy, and birth families were cut out from the word go - but this created difficulties when the children later grew up and decided to contact their parents.

“Most people who’ve been adopted want to know their roots, and why they were given up for adoption; it’s a natural urge. They’ll want to get in touch with their birth family eventually, and it’s less of a shock for their adopters if that contact is maintained from the beginning, than if the child simply goes off to find their parents when they reach 18.

“It can be a challenge, and some adoptive parents do feel threatened by a continuing link with birth parents - but lots of them see it as an important part of bringing up their child.

For every adoptive family which struggles with contact, there are more who welcome it, and view it as part of their child’s extended family.”

Contact with birth relatives is growing increasingly common in today’s adoption arrangements.

Letter Box Contact Under this type of contact the child and the member of their birth family can communicate by letter through a third party, usually an adoption agency worker. The frequency of this contact is

usually stipulated. When the child or the birth family member sends a letter it is delivered to the third party who will check to see that no information is given in the letter that has not been agreed. For example, contact phone and address details are usually not allowed to be disclosed. If the letter does not contravene any of the agreements made it will be passed on to the child or the birth family member.

Direct Contact Here the birth family member and the child are able to see each other at the frequency agreed.

This will usually be quite occasional so as not to be too disruptive for the child. It is also likely that when these meeting takes place that they will be supervised. The most common form of direct contact takes place between siblings.

affordable entertainment for all ages and all tastes starting from 21st April. As well as Comedy 4 Kids, the line-up includes Gina Yashere, Alun Cochrane, Brendon Burns, Dom Joly, Hardeep Singh Kohli and Rory Bremner.

Info: Southbank Centre, London | www.underbelly. co.uk

alongside Chris Rock, Tracy Morgan and Martin Lawrence. Hart debuted on amateur night at a Philadelphia comedy club and was insistently hooked. He quit his job as a shoe salesman and began performing full time at such clubs as The Boston Comedy Club, Caroline’s, Stand-Up NY, The Laugh Factory and The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. With his passion for stand-up, Hart continues to tour the US to sold-out audiences.

Info: Indig02, The 02 Arena Millennium Way, London, SE10 0BB | www. livenation.co.uk

COMEDY

EVENT OF THE MONTH

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-16 Apr Shazia Mirza Most people have a crush at 16, a relationship by 32, sex in between. Not me and Susan Boyle. What happens when you don’t follow the obvious path?

A brand new stand up show from international award winning comedian and Guardian Weekend magazine columnist. As

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EW* Every Thursday until 28 Apr Dibbi’s Rice ‘n’ Peas Comedy Club Bajan dancehall bombshell Dibbi presents a night of music, comedy and even a dinner-date game show. Featured comedians include: Glenda Jaxon; Felix Dexter; Slim; Littleman; Babatunde and Rudi Lickwood.

Info: 6pm | Latin Quarter Bar & Restaurant, 27 Broadway, E15 4BQ | www.newvarietylives. co.uk

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til 9 Apr An Evening with Shappi Khorsandi Star of Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s

seen on Have I Got News For You (BBC) Last Comic Standing’ (NBC) and ‘Beautiful People’ (BBC) and heard on ‘Muslim Driving School’ (BBC) and ‘The Now Show’ (BBC).

Info: 9.15pm |Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London W1D 3NE | www.shazia-mirza.com Comedy Roadshow, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, and Have I Got News for You is back with a brand new show about wanting it all!! Shappi Khorsandi is one of the hottest comedy prospects in the country.

She’s feisty, flirty and effortlessly funny, handling every subject with a razor sharp wit, softened only by her deliciously dizzy delivery and endless charm.

Info: 9.30pm | Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London W1D 3NE | www. sohotheatre.com

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Apr – 17 July E4 Udderbelly Festival 12 weeks of udderly

Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

Apr You Got Jokes Comedy Showcase Bringing you live comedy and music all fused together. Kat returns as the host and is joined by some of the hottest urban comedians on the circuit: Slim; Funmbi; Mo the comedian; Axel the Entertainer and Adot comedian.

Info: 7pm | Indigo2 | www.theo2.co.uk/indigo2

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Apr / 01 May LMAO Comedy Jam feat. US comedian Wil Sylvince Wil Sylvince is one of the America’s hottest urban comics. He will be joined by the UK’s finest comedians include Wayne ‘Dibbi’ Rollins, Richard Blackwood, Kwaku and Kane Brown.

Info: 7pm | Hackney Empire, Mare Street, E8 | 02088 985 2424 | www. wilsylvince.com

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May Kevin Hart Kevin Hart has burst onto the scene as one of the most versatile comedy actors in film and television. He can most recently be seen in Death at a Funeral, a remake of the 2007 British movie of the same name,

US comedian Wil sylvince comes to the UK

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TAKE A BREAK BREAKTIME

PUZZLE AND JOKE PAGES THAT ARE FUN FOR ALL

Fruit Wordsearch

blackcurrant strawberry nectarine orange

pomegranate gooseberry mandarin

grapes

grapefruit pineapple

apricot

apple

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blueberry

kumquat

peach plum

blackberry

pear

raspberry

satsuma

lemon lime

redcurrant

melon

cranberry

banana mango

kiwi

cherry guava

FUNNIES

TEST YOUR BRAIN ON THESE

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

EASIER

BREAKTIME

SUDOKU

HARDER

LAUGH OUT LOUD! PULL A PRANK ON SOMEONE TODAY!

Classic April Fools prank One night when you have a few friends around, take turns calling the same phone number, a really obnoxious acquaintance that won’t recognize your voices is always a good choice. When the person answers, try to leave a message for John Smith (or any name that sounds real).

Insist that you have the right number and even read their number to them.

Have a bit of fun here, and stretch this on as long as possible. Repeat several times, once or twice an hour.

Let everybody have a turn at calling. Just as the party is breaking up, call one last time. Tell the poor soul answering the phone that you are John Smith, and ask “Are there any messages for me?” This is sure to get a groan.

For an April Fools prank, trying writing “Beware of the Limbo Dancers!” on the inside of the bathroom stall.

Please use some thing that is easily removeable.

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BREAKTIME

LAUGH OUT LOUDER! PULL A PRANK ON SOMEONE TODAY!

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pril Fool’s Day is one of the best days of the year. On no other day are you “legally” allowed to play jokes and pranks on your friends, family and co-workers and have a built-in excuse. Some people will go to great lengths to pull off elaborate gags on those around them but sometimes it’s just as fun to play smaller, simpler pranks on as many people as possible throughout the day. That’s where we come in. Here are 50 pranks you can play on people with very little effort, yet still reap much joy out of the end results.

50. Borrow someone’s cellphone and change the language setting to a foreign language.

49. Change the language for Google on someone’s computer.

48. Change the coffee in the office coffee maker to decaf.

47. Swap the signs on the men’s and ladies’ rest rooms.

46. Hide scented air fresheners all over someone’s office.

45. Add food colouring to milk that comes in a cardboard container.

44. Add food coloring to the windshield washer fluid of someone’s car.

43. Switch around random keys on someone’s keyboard who isn’t a very good typist.

42. Switch the Push and Pull signs on a set of doors.

41. Hide food in a trash can and when someone comes by grab some and eat it.

40. Replace Oreo cream-filling with toothpaste and offer one to someone.

39. Dip the tips of someone’s cigarettes in Orajel so their lips will go numb.

38. Bring multiple sets of clothes to work, change every hour, and act like nothing’s different.

37. Cup some water in your hand and pretend to sneeze on the back of someone’s head.

36. Take something from someone’s office and leave them a ransom note.

35. Add several odd appointments with alarms set to go off during the day to a co-worker’s Outlook calendar.

34. Hide all of the desktop icons on someone’s computer and replace the

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monitor’s wallpaper with a screenshot of their desktop.

33. Put a “Please Use Other Door” sign on the entrance to your office building if it only has one entrance.

32. Put a balloon on the tailpipe of a someone’s car so it will pop when they start their car.

31. Glue the headset of someone’s phone down to the cradle.

30. Take the door knob off a door and put it back on backwards, then lock it and leave the door open.

29. Put plastic wrap around the door frame of a commonly used door.

28. Cover a toilet seat with plastic wrap.

27. Take a squirt gun into the rest room stall next to someone and shoot little drops over the wall every couple of seconds while pretending to pee.

26. Leave a note on someone’s car apologizing for an accident that never actually happened.

25. Glue all the eggs into the carton.

24. Hard boil all the eggs in the carton and place them back in the refrigerator.

23. Paint a bar of soap completely with clear nail polish so it won’t suds up.

22. Turn every setting in someone’s car to the maximum: the heat, the radio, the wipers, the seats, etc.

21. Place a small piece of Post-it note over the ball under someone’s computer mouse so that it won’t work.

20. Switch the handles on the refrigerator to the side that doesn’t open.

19. Conference call two people then don’t say anything, just listen.

18. Place a ‘house for sale’ ad in the newspaper for someone’s home.

17. Paint the tips of someone’s pen and pencil with clear nail polish so none of them work.

16. Hide a small radio in the ceiling tiles above someone’s desk and turn it on very softly.

15. Fill someone’s hair-dryer with baby powder.

14. Put marbles in the hubcaps of someone’s car.

13. Leave cryptic notes warning someone of an impending prank then do nothing all day.

12. Rubber band the sprayer on the kitchen sink into the “on” position.

11. Place a pair of pants and shoes inside the only toilet stall in a rest,room to make it appear someone is using it all day.

10. Pour vegetable oil on the exhaust of someone’s car so it will smoke when started up.

9. Hide an alarm clock in someone’s bedroom and set it for a.m.

8. Remove the shower head and place a Lifesavers candy in it, then put the head back on.

7. Remove the shower head and place a chicken bouillon cube in it, then put the head back on.

6. Rearrange somebody’s drawers or file cabinets in a different order.

5. Tape magnets to the bottom of a cup, put it on the roof of your car and drive around.

4. Put food coloring in the hand soap dispenser.

3. Put an ad in the paper for a garage sale at someone’s house beginning at 6 a.m.

2. Buy some underwear, write a co-worker’s name in them, then leave them on the floor of the office bathroom.

1. Install the Blue Screen of Death screen-saver on someone’s computer.

- Recruiting bone marrow donors between 18 – 49 years (staying on the register until 60th birthday) a small sample of saliva will be taken from each person registering - Recruiting new blood donors between 17- 65 years - You must weigh at least 8st (52kgs) Please come along to one of our registration drives so that we can completely blow away your fears, misconceptions and the overall ignorance of a very simple donation process which could potentially save a life!

Thank You. For further information about registering/fundraising please contact the ACLT on Tel no. 020 8240 4480 e-mail: info@aclt.org or visit our website www.aclt.org Charity Number 1119516 Company Number 04956925

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