Black History Month Edition 2012 by Dean Serieux

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

EDITION ISSUE 39, October 2012 www.thisislime.net

MUSIC

events

THEATRE

GALLERY

COMEDY

screen

COMMUNITY

£2.00

Trenyce Cobbins

CLUBS

ONs to I T TI et on

E tickgrati 14 P M in i E So

W f M AG s O EE P S ng

HACKNEY EMPIRE in association with UK ARTS INTERNATIONAL presents the SIBOJAMA production of

songs hugh OF masekela migration

Featuring songs by

Miriam Makeba Ladysmith Black Mambazo Joseph Shabalala Dorothy MasukA Fela Kuti

starring hugh masekela and sibongile khumalo 10-14 october 2012

hackneyempire.co.uk 020 8985 2424

21 Noisettes

CONTENTS

33 Sparkle OCTOBER 2012 26 COVER STORY Trenyce 05 Events Celebration of Life 07 Food/Drink BARTS 08 Fashion/Beauty Listings

36 Trey Songz

10 Gallery Wiz Kudowor 16 Theatre Michelle Gayle 21 Music The Noisettes 29 Screen New movie releases 37 Literature/ Spoken Word The African Writers Series

15 Cedar Lake

Word from the Editor

Wannual Black History

elcome to Lime’s third

38 Community Gary Crosby

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

Month issue.

In this edition we are celebrating the history of London’s black community. October will see a month full of entertainment, educational and cultural events that evoke the importance of Black History Month.

40 Clubs Miss Mavrik 42 Comedy Stephen K. Amos 46 Breaktime Get your jokes on

Check out a whole host of interviews and listings that celebrate some of the phenomenal

achievements amongst African Caribbean’s here in the UK.

Black History Month is a time to acknowledge the struggles of our heritage, and a month to reinforce the importance of accomplishment and making history. We also have fantastic competitions inside, so don’t miss out! Enjoy...

Team Lime Editor Vernia Mengot editor@gotmedialive.co.uk Designer Mialisa Fenty Published By Got Media Limited

Photographer Peter Branch Contributors Cassam Looch Semper Azeez-Harris Adelaide Damoah

Vernia xx

Victoria Woode Lynette Lisk To book your advert in the next issue of Lime and on thisislime.net or to request a media pack email Dean Serieux at dean@thisislime.net To request a review email reviews@thisislime.net Event Listings: listings@thisislime.net

CONNECT WITH LIME www.thisislime.net www.facebook.com/ limemagazine 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 2012

KETS

TIC N WIN PETITIO

EVENTS

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

October Calypso and Quadrille evening with Alexander D. Great and Januka Come celebrate and be entertained by Trinidadian Calypso from Alexander D. Great and Jamaican Quadrille from Januka. Info: 7-8.30pm, 9 Deptford Lounge, Giffin Street, London, SE8 4RW

COM

01 2012

-20 October Afrovibes Festival

Afrovibes Festival 2012

UK Arts International in association with Afrovibes Netherlands presents the biennial Afrovibes Festival returns for an extensive national tour following 2010’s inaugural UK dates. More than just a show, Afrovibes 2012 offers an eclectic and thoughtprovoking programme of performance from South Africa and beyond, including theatre, dance, music and spoken word. In addition, tour venues will host Township Cafes with authentic African fare plus debates, post-show talks, late night music and workshops. Produced by UK Arts International who brought The Harder They Come to the stage, the Afrovibes 2012 festival travels to London, Birmingham, Wales, Manchester, Liverpool, Hereford, Lancaster and Nottingham. Info: www.afrovibes2012. co.uk 4 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

October

‘Celebration of Life’ Concert 2012 The Metropolitan Black Police Association presents ‘Celebration of Life’ Concert 2012, headlined by Naturally 7. This special event supports the MetBPA’s ‘Revival’ anti-violence campaign, which focuses on the need to cherish and respect all life, and is supported by the Metropolitan Police. Seven guys with extraordinary talents, Naturally 7 take closeharmony style to stratospheric new heights by producing the full sound of a band using only their voices, mixing

beat boxing, basslines and uncanny instrumental imitation with rap and hook-laden soul, pop and jazz. The bill also stars young singing sensation Jermain Jackman, hip-hop artist Donae’o, lovers rock star Peter Hunnigale, British cellist/singer Ayanna and jazz saxophonist Jason Yarde alongside the Lifeforce Band, whilst charismatic host Curtis Walker returns. A brilliantly entertaining and varied event that unites music, performance and comedy, with a message that celebrates life and promotes peace in the capital, it guarantees to be a lively and fun-

packed evening for all ages and audiences. Info: London Royal Festival Hall, www. southbankcentre.co.uk Lime would like to offer two lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to this show. Just answer this simple question which reggae legend will be performing at the Celebration of Life Concert 12 A)Curtis Walker B) Donae’o C) Peter Hunnigale To enter please visit www.thisislime.net Good Luck

-19 October Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque Du Soleil A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down. Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson’s artistry before the eyes of the audience. Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael’s creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King

Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque du Soleil

of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations.

Info: www.cirquedusoleil. com

MONTH

October Calabash Centre Black History showcase Do you still have your country of origin National Costume? Join in this spectacular event and have an opportunity to show off your costume and dance moves. Info: 11am-4pm, 24 26 Calabash Centre, George Lane, London, SE13 6HH.

UK and international art world stage installations and musical performances alongside emerging artistic talent. Artists include Fiona Banner, Jimmy Cauty, Heather and Ivan Morrison, Patrick Tresset, and Inua Elams. Info: Taking place at Various Bankside venues. www.mergefestival.co.uk

til 2 November Lively Up! Festival

til 21 October Merge Festival

This autumn sees 20 groundbreaking events across the UK, in the new Lively Up! Festival complete concerts, talks and events showcase the extraordinary talents of an eclectic mix of performers, artistes and musicians.

Better Bankside and ILLUMINATE PRODUCTIONS present, Merge 2012; the annual arts, music and performance festival celebrating the contemporary culture and rich heritage of Bankside, London’s dynamic artistic and business district. For one month, the river walkway near Tate Modern, an air raid shelter, a tiny Welsh chapel, historic buildings, Bankside Mix, as well as other Bankside open spaces and workplaces will come alive when major names from the

November Bonfire Night Also known as ‘Fireworks Night’ and ‘Guy Fawkes Night’; Bonfire Night will be celebrated in London and across the United Kingdom including a series of spectacular firework displays in parks and public places across the capital. Info: www. londonevents2012.com

November Red Bull Culture

Clash Coming to Wembley Arena for the first time, Red Bull Culture Clash is the innovative live music event where four genres of music fight it out for venue supremacy.

2012

Hosted by Tim Westwood and Gemma Cairney it will see four huge acts take to the stage at Wembley Arena in one of the largest sound battles ever seen. The event will consist of 4

stages, 4 sounds with one winner chosen by you the fans. Acts include Major Lazer, Annie Mac Presents: Magnetic Man Channel One and Boy Better Know. Get on stage and put your selector skills to the test and submit your own Culture Clash playlist for one of the sound systems. Major Lazer, Annie Mac presents Magnetic Man, Channel One and Boy Better Know will each choose the playlist that most inspires them and invite the selector to join them on stage at Red Bull Culture Clash.

EVENTS

BLACK HISTORY

Feel what it’s like to stand in front of a Wembley Arena crowd when the bass drops! Info: Start your Culture Clash playlist on 5th September. 6:30pm-12am, Wembley Arena, London, HA9 0AA. www.redbull. co.uk

This exciting new festival of music on tour curated by our award-winning Artistic Director, musician and producer, Gary Crosby OBE and produced by Dune Music in association with Tomorrow’s Warriors. 2012 marks the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica’s independence with a celebration of the kaleidoscope of the island’s music and heritage. Lively Up! will tour to 17 venues across 10 UK cities including London, Leicester, Southampton, Harrow, Bristol, Birmingham, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh, and features a fabulous programme of high quality live music concerts and participatory activities for all ages. Info: Lively Up! Festival location and dates vary. www.livelyupfestival.com

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

FOOD AND DRINK

Lime’s Recipe of the month! Lentil and Bacon Soup Looking for a quick meal to have on your lunch break? Then this might be the perfect solution! Cooking time is quick and easy and the result will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. You will need: • 2 Carrots • 1 Leek • 2 Celery stalks • 4 Rashers of bacon • 1 Parsnip • 200g Lentils • 1 Potato • 1 Vegetable oxo cube

-15 October London Restaurant Festival 2012

Join in the city wide celebration of eating out in The London Restaurant Festival 2012. Designed to raise the profile of establishments involved and acknowledge the m pleasure and sustenance given to all by London’s extraordinarily diverse range of restaurants. The festival comprises of two main elements: Events and Festival Menus. There will also be a section of Side Orders – where individual restaurants will be encouraged and supported in devising activities with direct appeal to their own market. Info: www.london restaurantfestival.com

6 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

• 1 Chicken oxo cube • 2 Pints of boiling water First you need to chop the vegetables into small pieces along with your bacon. Then in a large frying pan fry the vegetables and bacon gently for about five minutes, then add the lentils and stir for one minute. Next crumble the oxo cubes into a measuring jug and pour over the boiling water, making sure that you stir to ensure they have dissolved. Then you need to pour this over your vegetables, bacon and lentils. Season

-14 October London Cocktail Week London Cocktail Week - the biggest drinks festival in the UK - is back and this year will be basing its main hub in the beautiful Seven Dials area of Covent Garden. The area will become host to a week of entertainment and activities including mixology classes, live entertainment and drinks offers as well as exclusive pop-up bars and a pop up ‘London Cocktail Week Shop’ providing cocktail lovers with all the ingredients to make their own at home. Get ready to shake, sip and party your way to a fantastic celebration of our capital’s unrivalled cocktail culture. Info: www.sevendials. co.uk, www. londoncocktailweek.com

with salt and pepper, cover and cook until the lentils are soft (simmer for 30-45 minutes). When cooked you can leave chunky or blend in a blender for a smooth soup. Tip: If you’re not a fan of bacon, try this recipe with chicken pieces!

-21 October The Chelsea Wine Fair The Chelsea Wine Fair returns in fine form this year following the success of the first Fine Wine Fair in autumn 2010 and with two sessions per day visitors can learn at a master class, meet with wine experts or travel the wine and spirit world with tastings and tips. At this exciting prestigious weekend consumer wine and gastronomy event; wines, spirits and food will be presented, with sales from an eclectic mix of independent wine merchants, wine producers, department stores, associations and organisations offering superb produce and services. The Chelsea Wine Fair is a ‘must go’ public fair to kick off the winter season. Info: www.chelseawinefair. com

til Nov Chocolate Delight – Chocolate Making Workshops These hugely entertaining workshops are the idea of chocolate guru Gerry Wilton, who owns and runs the world’s first chocolate themed hotel, The Chocolate Boutique Hotel in Bournemouth. As well as being great fun, they’re the perfect way of indulging in the culinary art of creating Belgian truffles by hand from raw ingredients, a skill that will stay with you forever. To start, you’ll get to learn about the fascinating history of chocolate before getting down to the serious business of truffle making. After creating delicious fillings and dipping them into Belgian chocolate, you’ll then get to decorate your luxury truffles with different toppings and coverings before gift wrapping them to take home to share with family and friends. Info: Chocolate Delight, Queens Club, Palliser Road,West Kensington, London, W14 9EQ, 01202 759979, www. chocolatedelight.co.uk

With the concept for the restaurant originally born 6 years ago in Spain, Sushi des Artistes London is the first sister restaurant to the hugely popular flag-ship site in Marbella. It is as a result of this has become the brainchild of owner Jay Joden, Chefs Saito Taka and Ryu Oikawa and Chef and Director Borja Goizueta, who have pooled together their skill and passion to produce this eclectic experience and edible art gallery; and a menu which fuses the finest ingredients from around the world, in particular the Mediterranean with traditional Japanese cuisine to create some of the most truly unique and unusual

dishes. The menu is brimming with varied and adventurous culinary courses and the dishes are presented like masterpieces, decorated with tropical fruits and flowers and even ribbon. Each piece of sashimi fashioned into rare gem like arrangements whilst each piece of nigiri is subtly signed across the side-just like an artistes signature on a painting. As enticing as the food and concocted with similar gastronomic gusto is the cocktail list, focusing on Champagne cocktails in particular it includes the ‘French 125’ Champagne with Courvoisier V.S.O.P Cognac. The wine list is as also as diversified as the menu, offering something

Britain welcomes brand new premium spirit, Bloodshot Vodka

Bloodshot Vodka is a new British premium spirit created by chef and food and drinks writer, Mark Douglas Hill. A fiery fusion of over 20 different ingredients including exotic spices, hot peppers and aromatics, Bloodshot produces the perfect Bloody Mary every time and may forever solve that age old question of ‘How to Make the Perfect Bloody Mary’ once and for all. After two years of perfecting the recipe for the perfect Bloody Mary since it was created almost one hundred years ago, Mark decided to take the matter into his own hands. This devilish spirit is truly the answer to drinkers’ prayers, and will make a drink that is truly out of this world every time and in seconds,

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FOOD AND DRINK

Barts Bar, Chelsea Words: Victoria Woode Lime Rating: It took me around 20 minutes to locate Barts bar even though I was literally right outside. Stepping into Barts bar is like being transformed into a forgotten era. Everything from the décor down to the music and the staff is quirky and reminiscent of the Speakeasy era. There was a nice little vibe but unfortunately I couldn’t gauge much from the atmosphere, but that was to be expected given that it was Thursday evening. Barts new menu showcases their use of fresh, organic herbs, however they also have some very unusual cocktail’s on the menu which isn’t exactly to everyone’s taste. I started of by sampling ‘Basil Fawlty’ – A fusion of Iceberg vodka, fresh basil leaves, pineapple and lemon. This was tasty, refreshing and thankfully the Basil wasn’t over powering. Watching the preparation of the drinks was very intriguing, like a covert science project! Barts bar uses the slogan bar as ‘The worst kept Secret’; however I think it s a completely secret hideout. If you can find the bar it’s worth a little peek but stick to the simple cocktails and visit on a Saturday night! Info: T: 020 7581 3355 E: info@barts-london.com W: www.barts-london.com T: @BartsLondon Opening Hours: MondayThursday: 6pm-12.30am, Friday-Saturday: 6pm1.30am, Sunday: 6pm-11pm

This month will see the launch of Sushi des Artistes, an eclectic new cabaret inspired Japanese-European fusion restaurant, opening on the fashionable Sloane Avenue in South Kensington.

to compliment even the most unusual of courses.

With truly eye catching and unusual surroundings, the restaurant boasts a main bar and a sushi bar; where diners can watch all of the sashimi and sushi being freshly prepared. Guests can even enjoy live music at the Piano bar, an oasis of calm hidden at the back of the restaurant. If you have ever been intrigued or wondered about the meaning of ‘food art then Sushi des Artistes is the place to discover such a delight. Info: Mon-Sun, 12:004:00pm 6:00pm-late, Tel: 020 3583 3797. www. sushidesartistes.com, 85 Sloane Avenue, London, SW3 3DX

simply add tomato juice and enjoy! Now known as one of the world’s most complex spirits to produce, it has a three intricate production processes involving over twenty ingredients with no artificial additives. A lifelong Bloody Mary and Bullshot obsessive, this is Mark’s first drinks project which he is running alongside his food and drink writing. Last autumn saw the publication of his fascinating book, The Aphrodisiac Encyclopaedia: A Compendium of Culinary Come-ons, which goes in search of the ultimate aphrodisiac dishes and is the result of years of researching and testing the most titillating recipes from all over the world. So all hail The Bloodshot Mary; the new queen of the cocktail world. 50cl Bottle RRP - £20.99 / 70cl Bottle RRP - £27.99 Info: www.bloodshotvodka.com, Twitter: @BloodshotMary, www. facebook.com/pages/little-devil LIME MAGAZINE 2012

NEWS

REVIEW

Sushi des Artistes – beauty is not only sushi deep

03 FASHION/BEAUTY

October Breast Cancer Care Show Celebrating their 16th annual Breast Cancer Care Show; the Grosvenor House hotel, Mayfair welcomes 24 inspirational women and men styled by by British fashion correspondent Hilary Alexander, with hair by Sassoon and make up by Estée Lauder, as they take to the catwalk for the first time. Guests will be welcomed by host Denise Lewis, Olympic gold medalist and sports broadcaster and get to enjoy fabulous entertainment, with a performance from X Factor and Popstar to Operastar winner Joe McElderry, Jonathan Ansell and a routine from Britain’s Got Talent dance troupe Flawless. Later guests can enjoy and evening show, hosted by radio DJ and television presenter Edith Bowman, which will end with an exclusive performance from pop superstar Geri Halliwell, who has promised some new material plus well-known numbers. In 2011 the event raised a fantastic £383,00 and this year they’re aiming to beat that with a target of £400,000. Info: 1–4.30pm,6.30pm– 12.30am, Grosvenor House hotel, Mayfair www. breastcancercare.org.uk

-28 October Chanel Little Black Jacket Exhibition The Chanel Little Black Jacket Exhibition London comes to town this October offering a great chance for fashion fans to see 113 unique photos of their favourite celebrities under one roof. Don’t miss a chance to see the exhibition that has been taking the fashion world by storm and marvel at the creativity behind one of the most influential and

8 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

respected people of the fashion industry that is Karl Lagerfeld. Info: 10am – 6pm, Saatchi Gallery,Duke Of York’s HQ, King’s Road, London, SW3 4RY. www.saatchigallery.co.uk

-14 October The National Asian Wedding Show and The National Asian Beauty Show

The National Asian Wedding Show kick starts the 2012/2013 UK tour with a 2 day show at ExCel London – the capital’s largest and most successful purpose built exhibition centre– which also incorporates the UK’s first National Asian Beauty Show. This keenly anticipated pioneering show dedicated to the flourishing and lucrative Asian beauty industry is set to become an unmissable show for both established and budding professionals alike. Showcase your talents and signature looks for the next season on our live demonstration stage, where hundreds of visitors will be there to watch you in action. Info: 11am-7pm, ExCel,

One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1XL. www.nationalasian weddingshow.co.uk

October- 27 January 2013 Hollywood Costume Exhibition The V&A’s autumn exhibition, ‘Hollywood Costume’, explores the central role costume design plays in cinema storytelling. This groundbreaking exhibition will bring together over 100 of the most iconic movie costumes from across a century of film-making. Don’t miss this once-ina-lifetime opportunity to see the clothes worn by unforgettable and beloved characters such as Dorothy Gale, Indiana Jones, Scarlett O’Hara, Jack Sparrow, Holly Golightly and Darth Vader. Info: www.vam.ac.uk

til 27 October POP! Design Culture and Fashion Fashion and Textile Museum celebrates the impact of music, art and celebrity on 20th-century fashion, from Rock ‘n’ Roll to Punk. The exhibition POP! DESIGN • CULTURE • FASHION showcases the influence of Pop culture on several design mediums from 1955 to 1976, including record covers and packaging by Pop artists such as Andy Warhol, Peter Blake and Richard Hamilton, and the work of fashion designers like Mary Quant, Vivienne

Westwood, John Stephen and Betsey Johnson, design director of the leading New York boutique of the era. Pop graphics will be explored, from the British psychedelic artwork of Hapshash and the Coloured Coat, and the posters of the American West Coast rock venues in San Francisco, to the work of Martin Sharp for underground magazine OZ. The influence of Heinz Eidelmann’s design for the Beatles film Yellow Submarine on late 1960s design will be touched on, as well as the work of ‘Mr Freedom’ fashion designers Pamla Motown and Jim O’Connor, and the early 1970s work of fashion and textile designer Miss Mouse, aka Rae SpenceCullen. Info: Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am - 6pm, www.ftmlondon.org

til 6 January 2013 Ballgowns Exhibition at V&A The stunning ball gown collection will be on show at the V&A in the newly restored Fashion Galleries for 2012. Bringing the glamour of British ballgowns from the 50’s to the present day. The exhibition will feature a whole host of extravagant designs, catwalk couture and red carpet glamour. This is one couture exhibition that should not be missed. Info: Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington, www.vam. ac.uk

Ballgowns Exhibition at V&A

til 24 October Messenger: The Bob Marley Exhibition As part of the celebrations that have taken place at The O2 to mark Jamaica’s 50 years of independence, visitors can explore an exhibition of Marley’s role as the catalyst to the reggae revolution, as well as his influence on music and culture over the past three decades. A story which has such a powerful and ever-growing resonance; it embodies political repression, metaphysical and artistic insights, gangland warfare and various periods of mystical wilderness, Marley’s audience continues to widen. Additionally Messenger will include footage created by The GRAMMY Museum who conducted interviews with several artists and musicians including conversations with Blondie, Carlos Santana and Nas, plus more who discuss the influence Bob Marley had and his influence on music and culture. Info: www. britishmusicexperience.com

til 9 November The Silent Traveller: Chiang Yee in Britain, 1933-1955 A display exploring the creative endeavours of Chinese artist and writer Chiang Yee (1903-1977) who came to Britain in 1933 where he lived and worked until 1955. During this time he wrote, among other things a successful series of illustrated travelogues using the pen name ‘Ya xing zhe’ or ‘The Silent Traveller’. The V&A will display selection of original illustrations and sketches from the Silent Traveller series and other books as well as designs and archival material which describe his life and work in Britain. Info: room 44, www.vam. co.uk

book, book cover, editorial illustration and student illustrator of the year. This year’s judges are designer Orla Kiely, broadcaster and cultural commentator Emma Freud, and V&A Director of Design Moira Gemmill. Judging the student awards are illustrator and last year’s overall winner of the Awards Laura Carlin, and illustrator Luke Best. Info: room 74, www.vam. co.uk

GALLERY

Bronze Exhibition

November V&A Africa: Exploring Hidden Histories Exploring Hidden Histories presents a fascinating account of the V&A’s collections of art and design from Africa. The exhibition includes some never before seen pieces of jewellery, textiles and sculpture. The stories behind them chart the Museum’s changing attitudes to African cultures from the 1850s to the present day. Info: Rooms 17a and 18a, www.vam.co.uk

til 18 November Design to win In association with Oakley Design to win looks at various ways in which design has helped athletes break records and push boundaries of what was previously thought

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possible. The exhibition will reference key moments where design has played a significant part in the progression of sport. The exhibition will also look at key moments where sporting innovations have been celebrated and expressed through visual culture by designers, photographers and artists, celebrating both the function and the beauty of sports design. Info: Design Museum, Shad Thames, London SE1 2YD. www.designmuseum.org

til December V&A Illustration Awards 2012 The V&A Illustration Awards celebrate the best illustration published in 2011 with a display featuring artworks by the winners. Categories include best illustrated

til 9 December Bronze at the Royal Academy of Arts This exhibition brings together outstanding works from the earliest times to the present in a thematic arrangement that is fresh and unique. With works spanning 5,000 years, no such cross-cultural exhibition on this scale has ever been attempted. The exhibition features over 150 of the finest bronzes from Asia, Africa and Europe and includes important discoveries as well as archaeological excavations. Many of the pieces have never been seen in the UK. Info: www.royalacademy. org.uk

til 27 January Designers in Residence The Design Museum continues to support the next generation of designers and creative’s with it Designers in Residence Programme. The exhibition will showcase the work of young designers at the beginning of their careers; recent alumni have included Giles Miller, Asif Khan and Bethan Laura Wood. This year’s programme will include a series of events, offering designers the opportunity to interact and engage with the public, whilst using this platform as a test-bed for ideas, designs and innovations. Info: www.designmuseum. org LIME MAGAZINE 2012

GALLERY

Wiz Kudow B

orn in 1957 in Takoradi, Ghana, Wiz Kudowor is one of Ghana’s most respected visual artists. Kudowor’s career as a professional artist spans more than 30 years and he has exhibited in more than 50 group shows and 12 solo shows around the world. Kudowor’s unique works are held in public and private collections the world over. Public collections include Ghana’s National Museum, China’s Ministry of Culture, Japan’s Osaka Prefecture Collection, and a public mural at Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. Kudowor’s style is unique and instantly recognisable. His abstracted figures, faces scenes and shapes are created using a roller brush and pallet knife, creating bold paintings reminiscent of traditional Ghanaian themes while simultaneously referencing cubist and futurist styles. Kudowor kindly took some time out of his busy schedule to discuss his work and his thoughts on success in art with me. I read that you studied art at the Kwame Nkrumah College of Science and Technology. When did you decide that art was in your future? 10 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Yes I went to the College of Art of the then UST, Kumasi(now KNUST). I completed my studies in 1981 and specialized in Painting. Art has always been a part of my life. I am one of the few artists from Africa whose story is not based on the system of parents trying to dissuade them from pursuing art as a career. I had been drawing and painting since I was a child and was very much encouraged by my parents to express myself through art. By the end of Secondary School, I knew art was definitely in my stars.

I read that you have been exhibiting for more than 30 years! Do you remember your very first solo exhibition? My first solo exhibition was in 1990 at the Centre for National Culture in Accra, nine years after I graduated from school. I was still very much into the “Dots Dynamics” as I called my style then. I had 36 paintings on display and the exhibition was only for three days which was all I could get from the Centre. I curated and financed every aspect myself and it was well worth it. Did you sell any work? I sold half of the work

exhibited.

What has been your biggest challenge to date as an artist? How did you overcome that? My biggest challenge artistically is that I am still trying to channel my energies along a defined path and be recognised for that. That is, being able to be selective with the ideas which come to mind to express. I am still stuck in there and enjoying the challenge because it allows me to explore my every whim.

There is a perception that the public has about artists. That of the starving artist. Has this ever been your personal experience? If so, how did you overcome it? Most artists have had their starving moments especially here in this part of the world where there are limited or non existent resources for artists to access. I have faced moments of stark need , however, this has sometimes been out of choice, because I preferred spending my last resources on materials for work ignoring my own comfort. But, being a creative person, I have found ways of indulging in creative commercial art ventures.

Words: Adelaide Damoah

Could you tell me a bit more about these creative commercial art ventures, how they came into being and how they helped you to overcome the “starving artist” situation? First of all Public perception of a starving artist has really never been directed towards me. People always saw me as doing well. I was the only one who knew what I was going through at all times. However, I did try to keep my head above water by identifying commercial ventures like translating some ideas I had at the time into post cards and general greeting cards... I designed textiles with screen prints for sale and also indulged in fashion. I started producing African print shirts and clotheslines for women.

What has been your biggest achievement in your artistic career to date? My biggest achievement.... I wonder. I am still waiting for the “aha moment...” Seriously though, I think it will be that I have been able to stick with the art practice in this environment even in spite of all the obstacles. I have worked for 30 years as an artist and achieved some

wor

amount of recognition for it. That will be my achievement. I do have a few public commissions to my credit which I consider as a matter of course. I know one of those public commissions is the famous Relief Mural at the Kwame Nkrumah Museum in Accra, Ghana. What other public commissions have you had? How did you get commissioned to work on these public pieces of art? The Kwame Nkrumah memorial park relief mural was as a result of my first solo exhibition. The Chairman of the Commission of Culture then saw the exhibition and was so impressed that he pushed for this project which at the time was in the pipeline to be offered to me. Others were the Nestle new head office murals which was through a shortlisted competition and the Volta hotel. The Akosombo commissions were just direct commissions. There is an almost palpable shift in the consciousness of the art world toward African art today with you and artists like the legendary El Anatsui, Romauld Hazoume and Brother Owusu

What effect has it had on your career? In terms of how this will affect me as an artist, I think I have already established myself as Wiz and just have to be accepted as is. Many artists of African descent are intimidated by the so called Western Art establishment, fearing that they would not accept them. As an

internationally acclaimed artist, have you had any experiences that would substantiate that fear? The Western Art establishment have a right to stick with what they know and what they define as art. I do not see why artists should be intimidated by the spectre of Western rejection. African artists should also be able to define themselves and develop character and identity intimidating enough for the western establishment to desire like the legendary El Anatsui. Yes, I have offered my IP(INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY) on various platforms for appreciation and validation on a number of occasions. I did not get a definite response and therefore decided very early in my career to stick to what I know best, being WIZ. This is where I am. How would you define success in the art world? Success- I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

know how that really relates. All I know is mine will be significantly different from another personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success.

GALLERY

Ankomah leading the pack. What effect do you think this shift will have on African artists going forward? I have always believed that Africa needs to put systems in place to appreciate value and accept our own art. The practice of waiting upon the Western Art Establishment to authenticate evaluate and validate our art in my opinion is outmoded. I sincerely believe I am one of those artists whose work is watched by the art establishment from the corners of the eye, like an accident waiting to happen. Not completely in the mainstream and not shut out as well. The new consciousness will open doors I believe for a lot of African Artists to grow yes, but how many will be able to sustain their craft when the tide changes(and it will change) is what I dread. The tendency is for a lot of African artist to crave acceptability in the West by indulging in activities or work that lacks character and identity. It is important for an artist to be himself and challenge his conscience every chance he gets. That is the essence and character of artistic practice.

Would you consider yourself a success? Having defined parameters for myself from the beginning in terms of being a professional in full time practice, I believe I have achieved some level of success. I will measure my success by how far I have come in terms of stickability, quality of work, general impact and level of recognition I have attained. I also affect the younger generation positively.

What is the biggest and most ambitious dream you have for your work? My dream is to be able to affect the generality of the world more positively with my work and be the ultimate viable investment option for collectors worldwide in my lifetime. I am on track if you ask me. What advice would you give to young artists wishing to follow in your direction? For the younger Artists, there is no free lunch. When you want to impact the world,it is important to impact and impress yourself first, then the world will have no choice but to pay attention. Keep working and develop your intimidating character. Hard work,stick-ability and love of your own work. These carry you over any obstacle that will come your way. Info: Website: www. wizkudowor. com

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Gerard Quenum

GALLERY

Words: Adelaide Damoah

BBenin in 1971,

that has been played with for so long and suffered at the hands of so many others, it still stirs feelings of pity and compassion – and I have to rescue that doll and create for it a safe place from which to recount the stories of the many things it has experienced and seen.

orn in Porto Novo,

Gerard Quenum is a unique sculptural artist who creates hauntingly beautiful pieces using recycled, found objects. His work grabs and holds the attention and it is as thought provoking and mysterious as it is beautiful. The objects he creates serve as portraits of people and things he observes in his surroundings and each comes with its own embedded history and serve as a “lens through which we view Africa.” His latest works, to be exhibited at the October Gallery, London in September 2012 are entitled “Dolls never Die.” The works include various parts of recycled dolls which have been recycled twice... As donated hand me downs from European children to African children and again to be used to play their unique part in the installations Quenum cleverly constructed for the show. Quenum kindly took time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions via translator Gerard Houghton about art, success, life and dolls. Did you study fine art or sculpture to degree level? No, not at all! In Benin where I was growing up there aren’t even schools, never mind such a thing as an ‘art college’ where you could study something like fine arts. 12 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Gerard Quenum Photo by Romuald Hazoume

Devin (Soothsayer), 2012. photo by Jonathan Greet, Courtesy October Gallery, London

What inspired you to use dolls and other “urban detritus” in your work? Well, in fact at the beginning I didn’t really use dolls at all – but I would work on old objects that I’d come across, bits of bone, old pieces of wood, things like that – whose shapes would often attract me. One day I came across an old doll’s head that had been thrown away. It was dripping wet, so to dry it out I attached it to a piece of wood with a big nail to stop it falling off. Almost everyone who visited me would comment upon it, and that alerted me to the various possibilities which I then started to explore, to really cultivate the dolls as an avenue of expression. In fact, any doll I find still inspires me in exactly the same way today. When I see an old puppet or doll,

When I look at the work, I feel a mixture of emotions, but most of all, I see pain and a deep, mysterious history. Is there a particular message you are trying to convey in this series? Those emotions do exist in my work, but there are also some very positive pieces, and some works are intended to be quite humorous also. Life may be difficult and hard, but it’s never just that alone, and there are moments of illumination that pierce the darkest gloom, and provide humans with the force to carry on regardless. When was your first solo exhibition? In Cotonou, in Benin, in 1998 in a place called Maquis Dunya. I gave the overall title of Interior Voices (Voix Interieurs, 1998) to that first outing – and the clientèle who’d eat there became the first actual audience for my work. Did you sell any work? No, but with the subsequent show at the Centre Culturel Français,

Je suis le messager (I’m the Messenger), 2012. Photo Jonathan Greet. Courtesy October Gallery

there were indeed a few sales and after that I’d sell one here and another one there, from time to time. But, as you can see when you look at the work – it’s not necessarily the sort of work that everyone might want to have in their livingrooms! The works can be somewhat intense. Apart from specialist collectors, it’s museums rather than individuals who most often collect my work. What is your proudest achievement as an artist to date? Perhaps, having one of my works permanently displayed in the British Museum’s African Galleries is something that gave me a real sense of achievement... Since even in Benin the BM is known to be one of the most important archival resources of cultural heritage. To have one of my contemporary works recognised in this way was, for me, a mark of real distinction. There is an almost palpable shift in consciousness towards African art today. You along with artists like

El Anatsui and Romuald Hazoumè seem to be leading. What effect do you think this shift will have on African artists going forward? (Laughs) Well you’ve put me into a bracket with two major artists from Africa, and it’s a category to which I’m not sure I really belong, yet. I have been in shows together with El and Romuald, but maybe all that demonstrates is that we’ve all been represented by the October Gallery, which has always played a critical role in bringing contemporary African artists to the attention of international audiences. I’d say that El Anatsui has been most important in the sense that here was an artist from Africa who is a recognised master of contemporary art and he still lives and works from his home in Africa. Once the western art world awoke to this shift in consciousness - it was only a matter of time before they found other contemporary artists – from Africa – whose work displayed the same qualities – qualities that have always been present in African art – but which until very recently the west had been unable to see – or recognise them. Everyone talks about Picasso and African masks, but no one mentions the unpaid debt that Picasso and western contemporary art owes to African art – as though it was all to do with his genius and there was no genius in what he found. So, the real answer might be that just because there’s been a palpable shift in consciousness

towards African contemporary art, that might not necessarily mean all that much to African artists – who hopefully will continue working as they always have done, and perhaps again show the way forward to western artists - as they’ve done in the past. How is it affecting your career? It gives me the opportunity to travel to many places and to observe more of the world. That’s all information that feeds into my work once I return to Benin. I learn that there’s poverty in Brazil and lots of crime in London. I realise that the problems my work depicts are to be

encountered everywhere – that we share a single planet and we’re all in this together.

GALLERY

I realise that the problems my work depicts are to be encountered everywhere – that we share a single planet and we’re all in this together

What advice would you give to any young artists wishing to follow in your footsteps? You first have to believe in what you are doing and then trust yourself to be able to do it over and over again - and always be searching for ways to improve it.

Info: Translated with thanks by Gerard Houghton 2012 Director of Special Projects, October Gallery, was born in England. After graduating from Churchill College, Cambridge, he travelled extensively throughout West Africa working as an interpreter for a researcher into African History, before taking his linguistic skills to the Far East. He is currently a free-lance writer, translator with interests in a wide range of subjects both artistic and scientific.

Image by Jonathan Greet

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

03 THEATRE

October Proof After tackling the fine tight-rope between insanity and genius, mathematical virtuoso Robert passes away, leaving his daughter Catherine to battle the same mental health demons - but that’s not the only fatherly asset she inherits...Robert’s ex-student Hal appears to investigate Robert’s last great work, but finding that things are not as straight-forward as they appear, turns Catherine’s closed off world upside down. The family reunite for Robert’s funeral, and unwittingly embark upon a discomforting journey of discovery and nostalgia; straight into the inscrutable equations of the mind and heart. This heart-breaking, paradigmshifting work by American playwright David Auburn takes on the themes of mental health, gender bias, and the incorruptible bond between father and daughter. Showcasing a cast of incredible London talent and a story that will grip you to the core; this is the play that everyone should see. Info: 7.30pm, www. fairfield.co.uk

Stomp - Ambassadors theatre, London Lime rating: Words: Victoria Woode

REVIEW

I headed into the heart of London’s West End to check out the highly acclaimed performance ‘Stomp’. Stomp is a show that I’ve heard so much about that I actually thought that I was a member of the cast in a past life! The Cast of 8 casually strolled unto the intimate theatre stage with growls and grunts as they portrayed a down and out lifestyle existing merely

14 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

-14 October Songs of Migration Songs of Migration marks a creative high point in the long and celebrated career of the legendary South African trumpeter, composer and lyricist HUGH MASEKELA. Featuring dazzling performances by MASEKELA himself and the soulful and dynamic SIBONGILE KHUMALO, this show operates like a unique and extravagant jazz gig. The band takes centre stage surrounded by a group of multi-talented performers in this celebration of music, song and dance from across Africa and the Diaspora. We are treated to songs by Joseph Shabalala, Dorothy Masuka andMiriam Makeba and many, many more – including, of course, numbers composed by MASEKELA himself.

til 6 October 2012 Comedy of Errors Shakespeare’s joyful comedy of mistaken identity follows the fortunes of two sets of identical twins, accidentally separated at to sweep (and stomp) the streets in a mesmerizing rhythm. Umpteen household materials were used as instruments, literally everything including the kitchen sink was turned into percussion; steel drums, mops, bins, sand, newspaper, plastic bags, batons and everyday cups provided a chorus of melodies. I enjoyed the slap stick humour and the Mr Bean style comedy. The humour was a little unexpected at first but came at just the right moments to prevent

KETS

TIC N WIN PETITIO

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Following an incredible take on Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Nomathemba the music then swings through the cotton fields of the Mississippi and the old gospel of the American South, via Nigeria with Fela Kuti’s Languta, before returning to South Africa for the finale. Directed by James Ngcobo. These special performances of Songs of Migration mark the show’s UK premiere.

birth, then miraculously thrown together again. In a town the size of Ephesus, events like these can only lead to confusion. Directed by Amir Nizar Zuabi, The Comedy of Errors plays in the Royal the audience from tiring. The show was interactive at times with a nice amount of crowd participation. The audience took part in what was effectively a huge clapping game. At times Stomp reminded me of an extended audition of X-factor. I do think all the performances were good, but just too lengthy. 1hr 40mins to deliver percussionist sounds and tap dance with next to no dialogue (other than ‘alright?’) was a bit much for me personally.

Info: Performances: 10 14 October Wednesday 7.30pm Thursday 7.30pm Friday 7.30pm Saturday 2.30pm / 7.30pm Sunday 5.00pm £10 - £29.50 Lime is offering two Lucky readers x2 pairs of tickets to the show for either Weds 10 or Thurs 11 Oct. To enter competition please visit www. thisislime.net. Competition ends 7th October. Good Luck! Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, as part of What Country Friends Is This? Together with Twelfth Night and The Tempest. This epic trilogy of Shakespeare’s shipwreck All in all the cast were very talented creative and energetic. They weren’t just actors, but clearly dancers – tap dancers and perhaps gymnasts. Stomp is a great show for the whole family, however if you have sensitive ears it might be best to set as far back as possible. I’ve never heard anyone say a bad word about Stomp, so perhaps I should question my taste…I think Stomp is enjoyable but has a little too much hype surrounding it. Info: www.stomplondon.com

til 6 October Choir Boy The Royal Court Theatre and Manhattan Theatre Club presents Choir Boy by Tarell Alvin McCraney. Determined to make his mark like those before him Pharus is hell bent on being the best choir leader in the school’s 50 year history. But in a world built on rites and rituals, how will he conform to expectations and gain the respect he desperately needs? This piercing new play is set in an all boys, all black, American prep school and scores a gospel refrain of the politics of minority and masculinity. Info: Jerwood Theatre, Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, SW1W 8AS. www.royalcourttheatre. com

– 13 October Cedar Lake

New York based company Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet makes its highly anticipated UK debut, presenting three UK premieres at Sadler’s Wells. Led by artistic director Benoit-Swan Pouffer, the company is known for its “impressive articulation and intensity” (New York Times) in works created by some of the world’s most highly regarded dance

October – 4 November FLASH MOB After a sell-out run and five star reviews at the Edinburgh International Festival, FLASH MOB transfers to London’s West End at the Peacock Theatre. This multi-genre dance spectacular features talented performers from some of television’s best reality dance shows. The production presents an electric mix of dance styles. Latin meets lockin’, contemporary goes Celtic and jazz joins jump jive in a full evening performance that will literally have the audience on their feet and dancing in the aisles. A new addition for the West End performances, headlining the show will be Charlie Bruce, the winner of the BBC’s hugely successful primetime dance contest So You Think You Can Dance? Hip hop crew The makers. Its programme includes Hofesh Shechter’s Violet Kid, which examines man’s struggle for harmony within a complex and often horrifying universe. Performed by all 16 dancers, the piece is set to an original score by Shechter using recorded audio text performed by the choreographer. Alexander Ekman’s Tuplet is also featured. This work for six dancers is set to a score created in collaboration with the dancers’ own rhythmic impulses, using their bodies as percussion, alongside an electronic score composed by Mikael Karlsson. Former star of Sadler’s Wells’ Debut initiative, Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite’s Grace Engine concludes the bill. Info: www.sadlerswells. com

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

THEATRE

plays, exploring love, loss and reunion, is performed by one company of actors. Info: The Royal Shakespeare Theatre. www.rsc.org.uk

Elektrolytes; the current reigning champions of America’s Best Dance Crew, who are visiting the UK for the first time since their victory. Latin dancer R.Elle Niane from the hit film Street Dance 2 3D, and her partner Edwar Ramos; plus contemporary dance duo Alleviate and Irish dancers Brosena from Sky One’s Got To Dance. Created by acclaimed Artistic Director

Gary Lloyd, who has choreographed and directed Thriller Live in the West End and worked with international stars including Will Young and Girls Aloud as well working on The X-Factor and the Royal Variety Performance, FLASH MOB is a feel-good production that is the ideal family show. Info: 7.30pm, Box Office: 0844 412 4322, www. sadlerswells.com

til 13 October Some Like it Hip

Hop ZooNation’s Some Like It Hip Hop was one of the most successful new shows to hit the West End last year, wowing audiences and prompting widespread critical praise, five star reviews and standing ovations with its infectious “wit, heart and magnificent energy” (The Independent). Following in the footsteps of the company’s 2006 smash hit Into the Hoods, Some Like It Hip Hop unites sensational dancing with a clever and engrossing storyline. The show returns to the Peacock Theatre for a limited run ahead of its first UK tour, having been nominated for multiple awards including two Olivier Awards and a

South Bank Sky Arts Award. With a nod to Billy Wilder’s film and Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, it tells a comical tale of love, mistaken identity, cross-dressing and revolution; all played out in ZooNation’s trademark style of hip hop, comedy and physical theatre. Directed by Kate Prince, Some Like It Hip Hop features original music by Josh Cohen and DJ Walde. Info: www.sadlerswells. com LIME MAGAZINE 2012

-20 October Driving Miss Daisy 15 Having broken records

THEATRE

satire featuring Anthony Welsh (Sucker Punch) and Javone Prince (E4’s PhoneShop) exposes the high highs and deep lows of trying to make it as a black actor – a ‘blackta’. Info: 7.45pm, www. youngvicß.org

on Broadway and played to sold-out audiences in London’s West End, David Esbjornson’s award-winning, smash hit production has dazzled audiences and critics alike. Winning the 2012 whatsonstage.com Award for Best Revival, this heart-warming play is now on tour across the UK for a strictly limited season. Inspiration for the much-loved Oscarwinning smash hit movie, Driving Miss Daisy is the charming, poignant and utterly compelling tale of the unlikely, long-lasting friendship that blossoms between a prickly, elderly southern matriarch, Daisy Werthan (Gwen Taylor) and her kind-hearted chauffeur, Hoke Colburn (Don Warrington) who is employed by Daisy’s son Boolie Werthan (Ian Porter). As the wheels

29 turn and the decades roll by against a backdrop of prejudice, inequality and civil unrest, the pair slowly transcend their differences and ultimately grow to rely on each other far more than either ever expected. Sparklingly funny, irresistibly heart-warming and with a wonderful much-loved cast, Driving Miss Daisy is the must see show of 2012. Info: 7.30pm, www. fairfield.co.uk

London Hub seeks emerging Artists & Playwrights This autumn sees exciting developments at the London Hub with two new, pioneering initiatives aimed at enhancing and developing emerging artists and playwrights. A new bursary has been created as part of the London Hub’s commitment to support emerging writers to honour the work of playwright Barry Reckord, actor and playwright Kwame Kwei-Armah (OBE) is the patron. The London Hub has also created Pitch It, a bursary which will help and develop emerging artists in any artform. Six artists will be invited to showcase their project to a panel of experts on Tuesday 30th October. The winners will each receive a cash reward of over £100 and a mentoring programme followed by a 16 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Oct- 17 Nov Blackta Welcome to the world’s most unusual talent contest. Behind the scenes, competitors are laughing and brawling, parading their hopes and fears, their loves and losses. But there’s a bigger fight to be had on stage: who’s going to win? The black guy – or the yellow or the brown? Young Vic artistic director David Lan directs the world premiere of Blackta by talented new writer Nathaniel Martello-White. This hilariously biting lime 250x176:Layout 1

16/8/12

15:09

-31 October The Rodin Project Inspired by the works of the great French sculptor Auguste Rodin, awardwinning choreographer Russell Maliphant’s latest work; The Rodin Project, returns to Sadler’s Wells for its first full run. For The Rodin Project, Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Russell Maliphant, has worked with a diverse mix of talented performers using influences from dance forms such as popping, breaking and contemporary dance alongside his own choreographic language of flow, form and dynamics. Info: 7:30pm, 0844 412 4300. www.sadlerswells.com

Page 1

A ZooNation and Sadler’s Wells co-production

The critically-acclaimed smash-hit returns!

�� Sunday Telegraph

presentation of the work they have created at Tara Theatre in 2013. Both initiatives are open to BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) people and celebrates the diverse, rich and vibrant artist, performers and playwrights across the UK. Info: Applicants must be members of The London Hub and membership is free. The winner will be announced in 2013. For full details on submissions, deadlines and how to apply for the bursaries and to become a member of The London Hub visit: www.thelondonhub.com

ZOONATION’S

�� The Independent

�� “Zany and zippy, hilarious and heartwarming. A WINNER” The Times

THU 20 SEP SAT 13 OCT

THEATRE

Michelle

Gayle

Words: Vernia Mengot

Lime gets talking to actress Michelle Gayle while she performs in the new play Soap Opera at Fairfield Halls

Wrole on screen in

ell known for her

one of the Nations popular TV soaps; Eastenders, actress Michelle Gayle has had success as an R&B/ soul singer achieving seven Top 40 singles in the UK Singles Chart including the hit “Sweetness” and releasing two albums in the early 90’s. Today Michelle takes to the stage at the Fairfield Halls in the smash-hit production Soap Opera which features a well-known, all soap star cast. She tells Lime Magazine about her role in the new television drama ‘True Crimes’ on ITV2, plus her experience on stage at the Fairfield Halls. How did rehearsals go for the new play, Soap Opera? The rehearsals were loads of fun and now that the tour has begun, we’re really enjoying ourselves and getting a great reaction from our audiences.

It doesn’t matter how hard things get, believe in yourself and keep on trying

What can the audience expect from the performance? They can expect to laugh! Soap fans in particular will spot a lot of subtle jokes. The audience is certainly seeing soap stars like they have never seen them before and are getting an insight into what life can be like behind the TV cameras – albeit an extreme view. I think the buzz of creating a TV show really comes across. How are you getting on with the rest of the cast? We’re getting on very well – we spend a lot of our time teasing each other.

If you could describe the feeling you get on stage in one word, what would that be? Exhilarating How important is acting to you? Acting is very important to me but, family does come first. When will we see you on our TV screens again? On 6 November I will be in a new drama called ‘True Crimes’ which will be on ITV1. It’s about two police officers whose cases are inspired by real life events. Hopefully they won’t be anything like the police officers in Soap Opera! What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far? Singing with Stevie Wonder

What single piece of advice would you give to a wannabe actor/ actress? Never give up. It doesn’t matter how hard things get, believe in yourself and keep on trying.

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

What does Black History Month mean to you? It is important for everyone to know the contribution that black people have made to the world. Black History Month brings attention to that contribution but also helps to get rid of negative perceptions that often surround black people. Info: Soap Opera played at the Fairfield Halls 28th & 29th September www. fairfield.co.uk Twitter: @michellegayle1 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

THEATRE

This month Lime caught up with Don Warrington ahead of his performance in Driving Miss Daisy at the Fairfield Halls Words: Vernia Mengot

Don Warrington TMiss Daisy returns to his month Driving

the stage, with a fantastic much-loved cast. A charming, poignant and utterly compelling tale of the unlikely, long-lasting friendship that blossoms between a prickly, elderly southern matriarch, Daisy Werthan (Gwen Taylor) and her kind-hearted chauffeur, Hoke Colburn played by Don Warrington. The production has broken records on Broadway and played to sold-out audiences in London’s West End. David Esbjornson’s award-winning, smash hit production was inspiration for the much-loved Oscarwinning smash hit movie that has dazzled audiences and critics alike. Lime got a chance to have a quick chat with the leading actor Don Warrington who is chiefly known for playing Philip Smith in Rising Damp, performing with the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company and Bristol Old Vic. As well as a whole host of acting roles; He also partnered with Latin American dancer, Lilia Kopylova in the sixth series of BBC’s Strictly come dancing. Ahead of rehearsals, he tells us about his irresistibly 18 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

for me to say! You have a long list of acting credits on screen and on stage, which do you prefer? Depends on the part! What has been the highlight of your acting career? Every part is a new challenge, and the highlight is usually in the past - you are usually ‘building’ in the present. What else are you working on? I have other projects in the pipeline. When you’re not working, what do you like doing in your down time? Playing the saxophone.

Every part is a new challenge heart-warming character and shares his top tip for breaking in to the world of theatre. How are you preparing for your role in Driving Miss Daisy? Learning about the period, the conditions he (his character) would live under; the geography and the social climate.

Tell us about the character you play. It’s hard to make a judgement about the character at this stage, it’s early days, but he is a man who understands who he is, his situation and tries to survive within it. What can the audience expect from the performance? The best I can do... It’s not

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to break into this industry? Be sure it’s what you want to do.

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

What is the importance of Black History Month? It’s a very vital educational tool for ALL communities. Info: Website: www. daisyontour.co.uk

music releases Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

The Pet Shop BoysLeaving The Pet Shop Boys Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have been a constant musical force on the UK since the eighties with their electronic saturated brand of music. Classics like the eighties smashers It’s a Sin, West End Girls propel them into the pop charts and huge amounts of success that in truth has never waned.

Wiley ft Ms D, JME, Skepta-Hear Me Last up it’s Wiley with another banger straight from his urban mind which is totally in tune with the formula for hits in this climate. Wiley is an interesting and hugely influential character for the scene and many of the people that are from the “urban scene” huge right now owe a lot to Wiley who has been one of the founding fathers in creating an acceptance of urban/grime artists. Wiley dropped his single Heat Wave recently and that has been setting the clubs alight with that dirty bass. Hear Me (the second single) is an aggy bit of urban sound firmly placed in that dance sound which can be monotonous but Wiley still manages to pull it off and the female vocalist sings a catchy hook

and chorus. The thing about Wiley is he seems a character who is able to morph and adapt. When dance music eventually reaches a point where people are danced out Wiley will still probably be around adapting to those inevitable changes.

They seem to have been a little quieter from those earlier days but they are still definitely productive and they dropped their eleventh album Elysium on the 5th September this year and the single Leaving is another cut from that album. It’s Pet Shop Boys for sure with the clear electronic influences but it also sounds like it dips it toe into that disco era with glitter balls shimmering. It’s a smooth fresh sound that belies the fact that the duo have been in the business for thirty years or so. Released 15th October

Joss Stone Pillow Talk

It’s amazing to think that Joss Stone is still only twenty five. It was in 2003 that she literally sauntered onto the soul scene and blew people away with her beautifully soulful voice with her debut album of covers The Soul

Sessions (2003). It marked the emergence of a UK artist that was blessed with bonafide soul. Ten years down the line and Joss Stone has worked with the biggest names and graced all manner of magazines that hanker for her face to appear in their publications.

MUSIC

October’s new

Josh Osho ft Childish Gambino - Giants Having interviewed Josh Osho a while back I was aware that he would be someone to watch out for and indeed this year he dropped his album Redemption Days to favourable reviews. Josh has had the backing of hip-hop royalty and two members of Wu -Tang Clan in the shape of Ghostface Killa and Rza. Incongruous as the connection maybe considering Josh has those warm soulful vocals, Rza and Ghost both feature on the album. His latest cut off that album is a track that features the multitalented nerds’ favourite Danny Glover aka Childish Gambino. It is a commercially friendly track with that inspirational and uplifting lyrical content which is becoming indicative of Josh Osho’s style. Childish (who is Josh’s label mate) provides his quirky lyrical blasts with lines like: “when everybody likes you then everybody hates you”. Gambino evidently takes the track from commercial to something a little bit more hood without the danger of dying by a drive-by! Incidentally look out for Josh repaying the favour to Childish by appearing on his track Wonderful. Released 8th October With five albums already under her belt, she makes a return to her beginnings by dropping her sixth album Soul Sessions 2 (2012) and one of the cuts due for release is the single Pillow Talk. There are no surprises and you get exactly what you would expect; on point vocals and that smooth luscious soul that feels like warm fragranced oil being massaged into your muscles. The only issue will be can it attain commercial success-that may not be achievable in the current market?

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

01 MUSIC

October Nickelback

See Canadian rock outfit Nicelback play a series of live dates promoting their last album “Here and Now.” Info: www.theo2.co.uk

October Dappy This year, fresh from the success of his two solo smash hit singles, dubbed the ‘livewire performer’ Dappy announces his UK tour. Info: HMV Hammersmith Apollo, www. venues. meanfiddler.com

- 20 October Lover’s

Rock Monologues For one week only, the Albany plays host to the defining sound of a generation. Merging theatre and music, Lover’s Rock Monologues showcases the inimitable songs and stories of three of the genre’s key luminaries: Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Romero Evans. Lover’s Rock, a hugely influential sub-genre of reggae, was born in South London during the mid 70s and, over the next decade, continued to gain momentum with increased popularity and significance. It gave women a voice in the traditionally maledominated realm of reggae with poignant lyrics and uplifting melodies, breaking beyond the constraints of underground dancehalls and radio shows. Lover’s Rock as a genre gave artistic inspiration to classic chart acts such as The Police, Culture Club,

and countless more but most importantly, Lover’s Rock was an integral part of black British identity during a politically and socially unstable time.

maniacal basslines and a raft of surprises along the way.

October Circus Records Showcase Roll up, roll up, the Circus is coming to town! October will see the full Circus Records crew will be descending upon Electric Brixton for a special label showcase, taking the reigns for seven hours of top quality bass-driven music. With their burgeoning roster in tow and a unique production created especially for the night, the label will be giving attendees the full immersive Circus experience. Expect heavy beats,

20 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Janet, Carroll and Victor tell the intimate inside story behind this trailblazing cultural phenomenon, interspersed with the uplifting and inspirational music that defined it. Following the successful documentary The Story of Lover’s Rock, Lover’s Rock Monologues brings together three of the movement’s most respected artists.

In the three years since its inception the label, set up by long-time friends Doctor P and Flux Pavilion with Maximum Boost heads Swan-E and Earl Falconer, has quickly risen to become an internationally renowned movement bringing the best in all things bass related. Emerging out of a rapidly evolving dubstep scene as a vehicle to put out Flux and Doctor P’s own productions, the label’s growing roster now includes bass stalwarts Cookie Monsta, Funtcase, Roksonix and Brown & Gammon as well,

This is a fantastic opportunity to revisit and experience the music and mood that shaped an era, in the company of three people who made it happen. On Friday 19 October, the evening will take a different focus with a showing of the documentary film The Story of Lover’s Rock presented by Victor Romero Evans and featuring live guest PA’s. Info: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG Box Office 020 8692 4446 / Book Online www. thealbany.org.uk cementing their status as scene leaders and champions of fresh talent. The whole crew will be joining this one-off lineup; including a very special unannounced guest- each bringing with them their unique sound to complete the labyrinthine Circus puzzle. The bill will be completed by Krafty MC who will be on hosting duties for the night. With the label and many of its artists constantly busy collaborating with other producers, vocalist and MCs, you can be sure that there will be some more surprise appearances along the way. Info: 10pm – 5am, Electric Brixton, London, www. circus-records.co.uk

Noisettes –

MUSIC

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

making contact

Sworld by the scruff of

ince taking the UK pop

the neck with their seminal single Don’t Upset The Rhythm Go Baby Go (2009) taken from their highly successful second album Wild Young Hearts (2009), the Noisettes, Shingai Shoniwa and Dan Smith have forged a path that focuses on pure musicality. Meeting them in the expansive splendour of the Royal Opera House for the Virgin event,

Impatience Is A Virtue, the duo are in great spirits with their third album Contact currently out. It’s been three years since their last album so the third album was overdue especially in this current music climate. Contact is a tapestry of genres woven together in an enthralling manner. Major cuts off the album are the title track Contact and Rag Top Car which is a warming emotive country influenced track that Shingai shines on. So you must be excited to be playing the Royal Opera House? Shingai: It is a dream come true and I really appreciate opera and the

theatre and so I think the space is really going dictate the way things go and I think the crowd is going to be awesome- I love playing to a spirited crowd. You are always touring and performing. Dan Smith: Indeed, yesterday we did a public event in a primary school outside Manchester and then we got on this 60’s diesel train for Africa Express that has been chartered to go around the country. It was Damon

Noisettes - Shingai Shoniwa

Noisettes Dan Smith

Albarn’s idea and there are phenomenal artists on the train; Tony Allen, Carl Barat, Terri Walker absolutely brilliant artists. Is it hard work having to constantly tour? Dan Smith: Sometimes it is hard to call what we do ‘work’ because it is a natural thing we do. It is humour that keeps us together but from a music perspective it is very natural for us. We used to do gigs back in the day where we would just stamp, clap and just drop accappellas or just walk into a middle of a room and just go - that is music! How important is it to have a break though? Shingai: I think too much of anything is unhealthy and I think you see a lot of casualties and artists that seem to be over productive but their creativity can sometimes suffer. For me I am my instruments but for guitarist and drummers they can plod on until someone has to tell them; “wash your face and sit down for a bit!”

I think you see a lot of casualties and artists that seem to be over-productive but their creativity can sometimes suffer

Your album is an eclectic aural gem and virtually every track is a different musical genre. Shingai: It is really hard to put it in a nutshell the album but when you are genuinely inspired by music I mean like a hard core music lover I cannot imagine a world with just jazz, rock n roll or hiphop. The fact that people manage to galvanise one small part of what I see as a musical rainbow is amazing but I am not sure how they do it. If they are satisfied like that then that is amazing - maybe that makes me too greedy. Loving Rag Top Car and the title track Contact but what can we expect single wise? Dan Smith: I do not know what to expect single wise. Campaigns are not these planned things because people are just downloading so much music now and so we will watch what people like in terms of downloading and then that is most likely to be the single but for me I would love it if it was something like Rag Top Car. Website: www.noisettes. net www.noisettes.co.uk Myspace: www.myspace. com/noisettesuk Twitter: @noisettes

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Tinchy Stryder

MUSIC

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

On Cloud 9

Aattended Tinchy

while back Lime

Stryder’s launch for his new Goji Tinchy Stryder On Cloud 9 headphones. It was and is a massive water shed moment because it shows that Tinchy has transcended just being a grime artist from the UK but indeed he has become a brand emulating the likes

of Dre and Fiddy who are successful business men as well as rappers. A savvy franchise with Roc Nation (Takeover Roc Nation), his own clothing line (Star In Da Hood) all point to a young guy that has a huge and blossoming business future. Of course none of this

could be achieved without music. In 2012 Tinchy dropped the successful Bright Lights featuring Pixie Lott off his forth coming album Full Tank. The follow-up single is the anthemic Help Me which once again shows Tinchy’s excellent ear for a hit. Featuring another brilliant female vocalist in the shape of Camille who positively nails the chorus- Tinchy is clearly on course for even more success. Firstly I have to ask about your new headphones I was there at the launch you looked so proud and stoked. That was a real big big thing for me. When we were planning, it was like a process of about a year but when I saw the actual product and the way it looked it was a real proud moment and it reminded me where I came from to now. It made me realise that I should be proud.

I think you are the first UK artists to do something like this. Yes I think I am—it’s not like I purposefully went out to do this but it is great to know that my team and I worked hard, focused and achieved what we have. How did the whole process begin? The company approached me and we had our meetings because obviously I did not want to put my name to something that I do not believe in. When we sat down I let them know what I would want from headphones 22 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

as a music artist and as a listener and we were able to come up with something great. When you started out did you think that becoming brand ‘Tinchy’ was important? I think it organically happened because when I first started writing lyrics I was not aware of people having businesses running alongside their music. It was not something that I thought of I just wanted to make my music but then from my first album I thought let me make a couple of T-shirts to promote the album and it sort of took its own path and now I have a clothing line-it’s crazy. What future business plans are on the agenda? With the clothing line there are some things that are in the pipeline but other than that I never really like to talk about stuff until I am a hundred percent that it is going to happen. The Twitter Question by @georgepnott As a big time executive do you prefer the bustle of the business or the hustle of the grime game?

If I was to be honest it would have to be the music - music is my passion my art-when I wake up I am listening to music, making music, enjoying music. Going into the studio and listening to music and making music it cannot be matched it’s a tremendous buzz. Help Me your latest single is brilliant and the female vocalist Camille absolutely nails it. Camille is so talented. She has not as yet put anything out but this is the first time that I have worked with her but from the first time I heard her I really liked her. She wrote a wicked chorus for the track and it really added another dimension to the track. In the track you ask God to help you. There is a religious aspect to the track because I say: “God help me I am down on my knees please help me”. It is a track about the fact that everyone at one time or another asks for help to get through some situation or problem. I did not want to create a song that was too personal to me I wanted it to have a wider meaning that can resonate with others. I read (I think mis-

MUSIC

music is my passion my art-when I wake up I am listening to music, making music, enjoying music. Going into the studio and listening to music and making music it cannot be matched it’s a tremendous buzz

information) from a well-known source that you were releasing a fifth album after Full Tank. The next album Full Tank will be my fourth studio album but what I had said before was that I had recorded so much new music that I basically had a whole new album ready but I think it got a little misconstrued in some interview or something. I was basically saying I could have two different albums but Full Tank is still a work in progress. I have a few things where I will decide what I am doing because I do not want to rush it and put out an album with loads of tracks I would rather break it down. Lastly I know it’s your birthday-what are the plans? Last year my birthday was big it was in Vegas and that was actually a really sick sick time so I feel like I might just have a chilled one on this birthday. Website: www. tinchystryder.com Myspace: www.myspace. com/tinchystryder Facebook: www.facebook. com/tinchystryder Twitter: @tinchystryder

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

She’s unique and she’s captivating

MUSIC

Vpianist Ayanna

ocalist, cellist and

Witter-Johnson has developed musically from a diverse background of mixed cultures. Her compositional versatility includes writing for symphony orchestra, chamber ensembles, big bands, string quartets and choirs, as well as songs, soundscapes and pieces for solo instruments and tape, across a range of styles including jazz, classical, contemporary, R&B, soul, reggae, electroacoustic and black folk. Graduating from Trinity College of Music in London, Ayanna made her debut at the London Jazz Festival in 2008, opening for Intercontinental – a project that features jazz drumming legend Jack DeJohnette and the Queen of South African jazz, Sibongile Khumalo. Since then she went on to be an Emerging Artist in Residence (EAR) at London’s Southbank Centre and has received a scholarship, where she completed a Masters of Music in Composition at the Manhattan School of Music. Her continual development as a performer and composer of extraordinary versatility has led to acclaim great achievements and work with some of the most ground-breaking composers and even led to the management of her first solo project. Ahead of her performance at the Celebration of Life Concert; Ayanna spoke to Lime about her early beginnings in music, her recent nomination for Best Jazz Act at the MOBO Awards 2012 and seeking out new challenges. Tell us about your musical background. How did it all begin? I started playing the piano classically at four years old, later taking up the cello at thirteen. Growing 24 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

I admire Bjork, for her fearless pursuit of authentic artistry

Words: Vernia Mengot

up, I went to various stage schools and got a feel for being a performer in general, including dancing and acting as well as music. The turning point was being invited to perform at a jam session at the Jazz Café when I was nineteen years old. From then on, I began to use my voice and eventually started to develop my craft as a singer/cellist at a gig in a Caribbean restaurant in Greenwich during my undergraduate studies at Trinity College of Music. What have you been up to recently? I have been working on a commission for a vocal trio called VOICE, exploring the female voice through music as well as preparing for a range of upcoming performances. In particular, some exciting solo shows happening at King’s Place on the 24th of November and on the 16th of October at the House of St. Barnabas, curated by Gilles Peterson. As a collaborator I have a duo show with the amazing Robert Mitchell at the Wiltshire Music Centre on the 10th of October and a wonderful duo show with Gwyneth Herbert in the Elgar Room, Royal Festival Hall on the 13th of November.

Are you looking forward to being part of the Celebration of Life Concert 2012? Absolutely! Performing at the Southbank Centre feels like a second home. Whilst I was studying, I was an Emerging Artist in Residence there, so it holds great memories for me. The Lifeforce Band are incredible, so it will be great to perform with such great musicians on the night. What holds the most influence over your music? The pursuit of authenticity. Who do you admire in the music business? I admire Bjork, for her fearless pursuit of authentic artistry. Congrats on being nominated for Best Jazz Act at the MOBO Awards 2012, how does it feel? Being nominated was a complete surprise and it feels amazing to be recognised for work that I am so passionate about. I am so thankful to the unknown champions that have nominated me for this award and my deepest thanks to all of you who have continued to support me on my journey. Thank you! What has been the highlight of your career so far? Being the only non

American to win Amateur Night Live at the Apollo Theater in Harlem 2010 and recording my original winning song with the Kronos Quartet in 2011. Are you working on anything new? My first full length album due for release in early 2013 produced by Adem. You are a member of the National Youth Theatre and Youth Forum of the National Portrait Gallery; what advice would you give to a young person who wanted to follow in your footsteps? Explore and participate in a wide range of groups, courses and activities relating to whatever your interests are. Seek out ways to challenge your knowledge and have fun in the process! Hold on to your dreams and pursue them with passion. Don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t do something!

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

How important is Black History Month to you? Every month is Black History Month!

Info: Website: www. ayannamusic.com Facebook: www.facebook. com/AyannaWJ Myspace: www.myspace. com/ayannawitterjohnson Twitter: @ AyannaWJ

October Maverick Sabre

London, W6 9QH. www. venues.meanfiddler.com

October Beres Hammond Soulful crooner Beres Hammond takes to the stage in The Greatest Reggae Show on Earth part 2. Info: 7pm, Wembly Arena. www.wembleyarena.co.uk

20 Maverick Sabre embarks on his biggest headline UK tour to date. Info: O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, SW9 9SL. www. o2academybrixton.co.uk

October Katie Melua

October Kelly Clarkson Info: 7.30pm, www. wembleyarena.co.uk

October Labrinth This year Labrinth will be live in concert performing hit singles from his latest album. Info: O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, SW9 9SL. www. o2academybrixton.co.uk

This year Katie Melua will host a number of Concerts, performing a collection of songs showcasing her unique and instantly recognisable voice. Supported by Boy; this is one gig not to be missed. Info: 7pm, HMV Apollo, Hammersmith,Queen Caroline Street,Hammersmith,

October Jennifer Lopez Jennifer Lopez announces her world tour ‘Dance Again’; having captivated audiences for a decade the global superstar arrives for her first ever UK live arena show. Selling 55 million records worldwide the actress, singer, producer and entrepreneur continues to influence a generation of pop music fans, most recently with global No.1 ‘On The Floor’ and is to perform hits from her expansive career which includes seven studio albums and 18 UK Top 20 singles. Info: www.theo2.co.uk

October Blessed Souls UK Blessed Souls is BACK!! LONDON’S LIVE SHOWCASE highlighting the FINEST up & coming artists. Blessed Souls UK is returns celebrating its 5th birthday on 20th October 2012. Blessed Souls will be hosted by Adelaide Mackenzie accompanied by the MAC Band (house band), taking place at the prestigious new venue Jazz on the Hill in Herne Hill, SE24 0JT. There Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

KETS

TIC N WIN O I T I T E P

MUSIC

COM

Circus Records @ Electric Brixton Its competition time and this month we are giving away a pair of tickets to see the dubstep label Circus Records epic showcase; in this one-off line-up of artists from their roster including Bass legends Funtcase, Cookie Monsta and a surprise guest. Don’t miss this special label showcase where you

October Lionel Richie Tuskegee tour 2012 Lionel Richie plays his first European dates since 2009, join him at his exuberant live concert which coincides with the release of Tuskegee , his much anticipated album released in March 2012. Info: www.theo2.co.uk

October Nicki Minaj After a phenomenal performance at the Radio 1 Hackney Weekend, multi platinum superstar Nicki Minaj takes her ‘Pink Friday Reloaded Tour’ to the O2. Info: The O2 Arena, www. theo2.co.uk

can expect heavy beats, maniacal basslines and a raft of suprises along the way! To enter for your chance to win tickets to the event please email competition@thisislime. net

November 2Chainz The US Rapper hits London in November for this very special live date. Heavyweight Hip Hop sensation 2Chainz show will see the culmination of a massive year which has so far seen the release of his debut solo and US Number 1 album, ‘Based on a T.R.U Story’, as well as dropping two singles and making guest appearances on Beez In The Trap with Nicky Minaj, Mercy with Kanye West and alongside Snoop Dogg on Chris Brown’s Oh Yeah. Info: www. electricballroom.co.uk, www.meanfiddler.com

will be live performances from Glen Scott, Marie Dahlstrom, KOF and Native Sun. Info: Admission: £10 in advance or £12 on the Door Purchase tickets here: http://ow.ly/e4auC Doors open: 7pm Showcase starts: 8pm - 11pm For birthdays, table bookings and meals tickets, email info@blessedsoulsuk.com Previous attendees of Blessed Souls UK would know this event is not; as the Blessed Souls experience is highly unique and addictive.

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

MUSIC

Trenyce set to thrill! BAmerican Idol was ack in 2003 when

a more controllable beast Trenyce Cobbins took part and while she did not win (she came fifth) she showed herself to be an amazing vocalist. Almost ten years later and Trenyce has gone on to work with the institution that is R Kelly, perform with another American Idol star and winner Ruben Studdard and notched up a string of hit theatrical performances. Currently performing a lead role in the musical Thriller Live she has her sights set on finally bringing a full album to the masses. It’s still a work in progress but her energy and self-belief are evident as we talk in the depths of the Lyric Theatre. I first have to ask about X Factor-what was that like? It is a very controlled place and very often the winner does not do as well as they should. I think because you do not win you know you have to work your ass off. As the winner you only have won shot for the big shot but when you do not win you can make the mistakes without it being in the public. It seems very intense. You are literally just thrown into the record business but luckily my mother was my manager and she would take me around, we read the books so we knew what we were doing so by the time American Idol came I was able to look at the contract and go that is not right that 26 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

I would describe my music as disco and soul…. think Diana Ross with a bit of Dona Summers, Chaka Khan and Whitney!”

experienced heart ache, real love, I experienced my parents’ divorce so I have experienced a lot of things that gives me something to write about. How would you describe your musical style? I would describe my music as disco and soul-I want to create that genre and so if there is a way to marry that disco with that funk soul then it would be me-think Diana Ross with a bit of Donna Summers, Chaka Khan and Whitney! Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

is not right. Is it a bad contract? It’s not that great it has gone on record as being one of the worst contracts ever but I feel at the same time that if you are going to be in the industry and get signed to a label you are going to have to give up something-it’s almost impossible to sign a deal with a record company and get everything you want. Before getting to music I just wanted to talk about your starring role in Thriller Live it looks gruelling. I have been to other shows in the West End and this is the hardest show because we are on stage 90 percent

of the time including the dancers, the breath control to sing and dance it is hard and Michael Jackson sang high! You have to give it every single night to the fans. It is definitely not the type of show to be unwell in! And now music I know you are looking to drop your first debut album soon. I am not with a labelwhat I am doing is I am in the beginning stages of an album but I feel like I have been getting ready for an album for a while really. I did American Idol then and I did not really know who I was as an artist and now it has been ten years and I have

That’s a mix! I know but I want a sound that sets me apart that is how you win Grammys. Adele went almost diamond because she did not do a dance record, she went against the grain and so that is what I want to do. So who have you got planned for that album? I cannot say who I am working with because there is nothing signed on the dotted line but who would I love to work with? Definitely Will I am he is amazing – he is a nerd when it comes to the studio-nerds are really fastidious and so fingers cross that will happen so watch out for something in 2013! Website: www.trenyce.com Myspace: www.myspace. com/trenyceonline Facebook: www.facebook. com/NYCELIFE Twitter: @trenyce

Trey Songz TNeverson aka Trey remaine Aldon

Songz continues his onslaught in the category of the best male singer. It’s been a full six years since he first came onto the scene with his boyish looks and vocally on point singing. Fast forward and he’s bulked up like he’s about to hit the film set for the Expendables (the ladies obviously love it) and he is about to drop his number 1 charting album Chapter 5 that has spawned some bangers like Heart Attack. Over in the UK for the third time, “I’m a honary English dude now!” Trey Songz is indeed close to being on par with contemporaries such ads Chris Brown. In a moment where every female will wish they were my friend I got some time to talk face to face with the man himself. So you have been hitting our shores a lot recently. This is the third time I have been over to the UK this year. I am just making it more of a responsibility to come here and show my fans that I care and have conversations with my fans. I have probably been her five or six times already-I’m a honary English guy now!”

Success is what you envisage it to be. You have to go into any profession knowing what you want because people will place expectations on you

So let’s clear this up- a source states you were shy that is why you were reluctant to get into music-you do not seem shy. I was never shy! They have me as being shy but it is more apprehensive because the chances of making it in this profession are low. You have a lot of people trying to sell you dreams and you have family saying that you are amazing. For me it was about meeting the

right people and getting on the right path and really focusing on that dream. How have you dealt with the constant scrutiny and being in the limelight because it comes across as something that is really difficult to deal with? You have to condition your mind and heart because you are constantly being judged. It is something that always happened but with so many blogs and social media you are being judged just so much more quickly and so you have to learn and be sure in yourself. What does success mean to you? Fans ask me that a lot in truth. Success is what you envisage it to be. You have to go into any profession knowing what you want because people will place expectations on you and their idea of success could taint yours.

So music - how does Chapter 5 show your progress as an artist? It shows an artist staying true his roots. It is so easy to make a Euro dance, 80 beat per min eight count track and have a hit. I do think that there are authentic records within that space that are amazing records but I do think that this is a cop out to get chart position because a person will know that it will do well. There is a level of monotony when the charts do not show the versatility of music. It is monotonous when you get to a point where every song sounds the same. We are not giving art the room to breathe because there are so many genres. To gain

MUSIC

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

the success I have had with this current album I have fused different elements to create tracks like Simply Amazing and Heat Attack-I am really proud of this album! Your brother helped produce Don’t Be Scared featuring Rick Ross-that must have been a proud moment! Shout out to my brother who has been working hard at his craft. He did not make the album before but he kept working and it was definitely not a hand out, he came with a great song and it really fitted the project so I am very proud of him. So what are the plans? I have so many songs probably thirty or forty songs that are unheard so I will probably release a mix-tape. I will definitely be going on tour in the States and then probably I will go on tour here in the UK at the top of the year so go check me out Lastly, you are really involved with your philanthropic causes just explain some of the things you will be doing this year? Last year we did a free concert put out two mix-tapes, an ep and a few videos that you could download where the money would go to the foundation. I have my agents world-wide contributing to their communities. I feel that it is my responsibility to entertain and well as educate. Info: Website: www.treysongz. com Twitter: @TreySongz

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Kenny Barnes

MUSIC

Words: Vernia Mengot

WKenny Barnes’

ashington born

smooth baritone voice has lead to him perform and work with some of the biggest names the industry has to offer including the likes of Michael Jackson, George Michael and the O’Jays. The R&B singers most valuable and memorable experiences came as a member of The New JB’s, where he shared the stage with arguably the greatest pioneer of R&B music, the late, “Godfather of Soul” James Brown. In this interview Lime got talking to Kenny about remarkable success and his musical inspiration; plus he shares his point of view on the significance of Black History Month.

How did you become involved in the music industry? Well I’ve been involved for a while I guess, it has come from loving music and singing, just wanting to do it as a profession and being lucky enough to have people believe in me enough to invest and to see this thing all the way through. I’ve been blessed to have people like the music and it’s been my pleasure to bring people good music. What music did you listen to growing up and how has this influenced you as an artist? The music I listened to was more or less R&B, contemporary and gospel music. Back in the 80’s I listened to a lot of pop music; primarily R&B, that music was my love. The singing, it spoke to me. 28 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

The music in my life was in what they were saying. So I kept on going with it and it was enjoyable for me to sing. You’ve had remarkable success as an R&B/soul singer. Tell us about some of the people you have worked with. I did shows with James Brown, George Michael, The O’Jays, we did a BET special with Michael Jackson. It’s all been a big deal, I got to see what it took to be a superstar, and it was definitely something I could learn from. Tell us about your involvement with The New JB’s. I work with them now, The New JB’s are like my family. That’s who I do all my music with. James Brown was the ultimate musician, and he was on top of everything, The New JB’s took a lot from him. They took it to heart. They learnt a lot of good business lessons. What inspires you the most? I think as far as music is concerned, if you have to get up and go to work every day it might as well be doing something that you love doing. I love the making of the music and the singing and the performing. People react positively to the songs and the music. That inspires me to keep on going and to keep on creating music. What are you working on at the moment? We are working on finishing up this CD. We will have another single

if you have to get up and go to work every day it might as well be doing something that you love doing out at the beginning of the year. Do you have a name for the new album yet? It’s unnamed right now. It’s forthcoming; so we’ll figure out a good catchy thing for it. What can your fans expect from you in the near future? They can expect good music, it kind of sounds like a cliché, but really good music and things you can listen to over and over again. What would you like to say to your fans? I appreciate them and I thank them for the support, and I hope they enjoy everything that we give them. We thank you all.

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

What is the significance of Black History Month?

Its history to us, It’s all the things we kind of gone through in our struggles just to be equal and all the things our ancestors went through, just to be human beings. It’s extremely significant that we continue to know our heritage and where we come from. Now we have our first African American President, there’s a lot of push back that’s not really nice, but we have to overcome that and continue to work towards being all that we are and better. It is important that we continue to push so that we are equal to everybody and that we are all treated as humans, there is no one race that is better than anybody else, we are all God’s children. Info: Myspace: www.myspace. com/kennybarnes1

October’s new Words: Cassam Looch

Ito avoid the Bond film

t’s going to be very hard

out this month. Not only is that an event in itself, but this year also marks the 50th anniversary of the film franchise, so expect Daniel Craig and his predecessors to be all over the media. ‘SkyFall’ actually looks like a significant improvement on the underwhelming ‘Quantum of Solace’, and not just for Bond fans. Sam Mendes directs and the supporting cast are strong. We’re particularly interested to see how Naomie Harris gets on, in what could be a recurring role.

contention seems to be the soft 12A rating. There won’t be much blood or neck-snapping on screen, but as long as we hear some threats whispered down a phone line to a vaguely Eastern European bad guy, we’ll be happy.

‘Hit & Run’ sees Bradley Cooper don dreadlocks and play the bad guy for a change. It’s a comedy caper which is a bit hit & miss (pun intended), but there are a few good jokes along the way. ‘Private Peaceful’ feels like a low-budget war film, in fact that’s exactly what it is, but the drab locations and small-scale feels do make for a powerful film which packs a decent punch. Emma Watson looks to break away from her wizarding past in ‘Perks of being a Wallflower’. It looks like a typical coming-of-age story set in the US, but Watson is one of the few actors from Harry Potter that we think can make the transition to grown-up films.

Taken 2

If ongoing action franchises are your thing, then perhaps Liam Neeson in ‘Taken 2’ could be what you’re after. The first film was an unexpected hit, and ever since then the actor has taken it upon himself to be the ‘old man kicking people where it hurts’ on screen. The location shifts from Paris to Istanbul and the story sees the father of one of Neeson’s victims from the first film seeking revenge. The main bone of

SCREEN

movie releases

Also looking to make that transition is Kristen Stewart. She still has the final Twilight films to come, and recently starred in ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’, but the jury is still out. In fact she seems to have done most of her growing up away from the screen... ‘On the Road’ is the film she stars in. It’s based on a popular American novel, which is said to be unfilmable, so everyone is already preparing the barbs about how it should have remained that way.

Naomie Harris in Sky Fall.

Hit and run

Halloween brings about its fair share of horror films, and we’ve got a few to pick our way through this month. Most promising is ‘Sinister’ which was a big hit at FrightFest last month. It looks to have the atmosphere of ‘Insidious’, which is one of the standout horror films of recent years. The ‘Paranormal Activity’ series also continues this month, and the fourth instalment should get the requisite frights come October 31st. Laughs and a few sick gags are the order in ‘Stitches’, a British film about a killer clown. Again, this one scored well at FrightFest, although it might be a bit too much for most viewers.

You can always test the water with the spooky animations that are coming out this month, just in time for half-term. ‘Frankenweenie’ open the London Film festival, and ‘Hotel Transylvania’ has a cast of scary characters checking into a creepy residence. In 3D. Also for the kids there is ‘Madagascar 3: Europe’s most wanted’. This series keeps on raking in the cash and if it’s inoffensive fluff for the younger ones that you want, you can’t go wrong here. Also out is the remake of ‘Pusher’, a 3D take on the video game ‘Silent Hill’ and, of course, Whitney Houstons final film ‘Sparkle.

Hotel Transylvania

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

SCREEN

Lime’s October

film reviews

WORDS: CASSAM LOOCH

Looper This hotly anticipated sci-fi thriller has finally arrived, and it almost delivers the perfect, intelligent blockbuster experience that has been lacking since ‘Inception’. The fact that it isn’t quite a five-star smash is probably down to us getting picky after the likes of ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ and ‘Avengers Assemble’, but make no mistake ‘Looper’ is still joyfully entertaining and superbly crafted.

The idea, in its simplest form, is the quintessential sci-fi theorem. A contract killer in the near future is hired to take out targets sent to him from 30 years in the future. Joseph Gordon-Levitt goes about this task until he is asked to “close his loop”, a process that requires him to kill the future version of himself. When he is faced with this, in the form of Bruce Willis, he hesitates and so ensues

chaos. His mob bosses want both versions dead, but Willis has an agenda all of his own. He is going to track down a menace that is destroying the future. It starts off as a superb action adventure, with some of the niftiest ideas we’ve ever seen on screen. A gruesome

torture scene is expertly handled, delivering jarring shocks that are impossible to forget. Willis is on top form, he looks as good as the action hero we remember from the original ‘Die Hard’, and the film plays up to this. If things drag a little towards the end, then it is because a couple of the additional ideas appear to have been given little room to grow in comparison to the core concept. In the final reckoning it doesn’t matter, ‘Looper’ is one of the cleverest blockbusters of all-time. Lime Rating: Release Date: Out Now Starring: Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Paul Dano and Emily Blunt

WIN PRIZES We’ve also got a chance to win some Looper goodies on the website now... log on to www.thisislime.net and enter!

30 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Frankenweenie The London Film Festival opener is a curious selection on one hand, yet on the other it’s very “safe”. This is a Tim Burton film through and through, whether that format is appealing or whether it’s outstayed it’s welcome is entirely up to the viewer. A young boy is desperate to be reunited with his beloved dog. Bringing back the dead seems to be the only way possible, and somehow Victor manages to do just that. Sparky might be resurrected, but his return arouses the suspicions of Victor’s classmates. Once the secret is out, the small town they call home is overrun by zombie pets. As I said, classic Burton. The black & white stop-motion look of the film is elegant from the first frame. It’s also very effective in setting the tone, but atmosphere aside the story feels a little lightweight. In essence, this feels like an extended short film. In fact that’s exactly what it is. Lime Rating: Release Date: 17 October Directed by: Tim Burton

A cast of untrained actors bring this incredibly simple story to life. There are elements of fantasy throughout, but the performances are real in every sense of the word. Young Quvenzhané

Wallis is outstanding, and is already being touted for the big awards at the end of the year. ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’ looks like nothing else we’ve seen in recent years, it exudes a parred-back appeal all of its own. How well it does on general release might hold the key to any long-lasting chance of it winning awards (although it has already done wonders at Cannes and Sundance). All we can do is urge you to experience this at the soonest opportunity.

This could have been a cheesy Rom-Com, but in the hands of directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris we get

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something altogether more sophisticated. It’s still hilarious in places, emotionally engaging some moments and overall it’s utterly enchanting. Kazan plays sparks just one flutter away from Zooey Deschanel levels of kookiness, and that’s to the films eternal benefit. Her script has bundles of energy and no small amount of intelligence, and even a few missteps such as an unnecessary trip to meet the quirky in-laws isn’t enough to derail this fantastic effort. Lime Rating: Release Date: 12 October Starring: Zoe Kazan, Paul Dano and Steve Coogan

Lime Rating: Release Date: 19 October Starring: Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry, Lowell Landes

Jameson Cult Film Club: Jaws

tackle making it if he were given the opportunity now with today’s advancements in technology.

Last month I attended the latest in the Jameson Cult Film club series, and was lucky enough to spend some time with the new curator Andy Serkis. The actor spoke to Lime about his role with Jameson, and why he chose Jaws as the first film to showcase.

“What I love about Jaws is the fact that it still holds up today. Even though you know it’s an animatronic shark, your mind is tricked in such a way that you’re still terrified of it. If I was to shoot it now, it would probably be a combination. I would still want some real physicality of an animatronic puppet. It would probably be CG-enhanced, but I

I asked him about the Spielberg blockbuster, and how he would

would probably use the basis of that still. The human brain, the way it is tricked in modern-day filmmaking, sometimes it can be flattened out. What is interesting is where you are just not sure what is real and what isn’t.” Be sure to visit the official site were the latest films in the cult film club will be announced, including their exciting Halloween season. Website: http://www. jamesoncultfilmclub.com/ LIME MAGAZINE 2012

NEWS

Beasts of the Southern Wild 6-year-old Hushpuppy is a smart girl left largely to her own devices by her father who is struggling with problems of his own. They live in a ramshackle community under constant threat from flooding thanks to a levee which casts a shadow over their home. Following a fierce storm, Hushpuppy and her father take to the water in a bathtub and try and avoid being assimilated into the general populace.

Ruby Sparks Starring real-life couple Zoe Kazan and Paul Dano, ‘Ruby Sparks’ is directed by the couple behind ‘Little Miss Sunshine’. As if that wasn’t “meta” enough for you, Kazan also wrote the script that sees Dano play a writer struggling to complete his second novel. In the throws off a collapsing state of mind he creates a perfect woman in the form of Ruby Sparks. For reasons which don’t need explaining (and never are in the film), Ruby springs to life and is fully formed in every way the Dano has written her to be.

56 BFI London Film Festival th

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Words: CASSAM LOOCH

TFestival (LFF) returns he London Film

this year in a shortened format. Now running for 11 days, and venturing away from its traditional central London home, the festival is set to be accessible to more people than ever before.

This year, under the stewardship of new festival director Clare Stewart, the titles are divided into several strands which should give the audience more of a choice in terms of attending the films that might be of particular interest to them. Here are our picks of what to catch, from the big names to the more obscure titles that might just prove to be the gems of the festival.

Frankenweenie

‘Sightseers’ on the other hand tells the amusing story of two love-struck caravaners who travel across the country causing bloody mayhem everywhere they go. It’s the latest film from Ben Wheatley, who hit the big time last year with The Sapphires the unsettling hitman horror ‘The Kill List’.

Great Expectations

Two films we already knew were going to be headlining the festival are the opening and closing acts. Tim Burton’s ‘Frankenweenie’ kicks things of in traditional Burton style, quirky stop-motion puppets and dollops of gothic humour. Its 3D presentation might raise a few eyebrows, but Burton is a director who has now become an institution and as such represents a relatively safe choice.

will have everyone talking, probably around about the time of the Oscars as well, is Ben Afflecks’ politically charged thriller ‘Argo’. The actor is now just as well known for his directing credentials, and in this film he gives them both a full work-out in this true story of a CIA mission into Iran at the height of the 197 revolution. This is Affleck’s third film, and he’s got a lot to live up to given the success of ‘Gone Baby Gone’ and ‘The Town’.

The same can be said of British filmmaker Mike Newell. Having ventured into Hollywood, he now gives us the closing film ‘Great Expectations’. It looks an authentic enough adaptation with Helena Bonham-Carter taking a leading role that she was born to play. One of the films we predict

Dustin Hoffman makes his debut behind the camera in the entirely safe-looking ‘Quartet’. A cast of British veterans star as four ageing opera stars.

32 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

screen at the LFF. ‘Amour’ is Michael Haneke’s heart-breaking ode to love and loss. It’s said to be the opening montage of Pixar’s ‘Up’ played out for two hours. It’s going to be tough.

There is also ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’, for those looking to recapture the vibe of ‘The King’s Speech’. Bill Murray and Laura Linney star.

The increasingly popular Chris O’Dowd stars in ‘The Sapphires’, a comedy/ musical about three Aboriginal sisters trying to make their name in the bigoted backwaters of rural Australia. They stumble across a downon-his-luck ‘soul brother’ (O’Dowd), who agrees to lead them on a potentially lucrative tour playing to American troops in war-torn Vietnam. Two very different films that wowed at Chakravyuh Cannes also

Bollywood is represented this year with the inclusion of action epic ‘Chakravyuh’. It’s said to be a crownpleaser, and there is nothing wrong with that! Another film featuring cops and lawbreakers is ‘End of Watch’ starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Pena and Anna Kendrick. Another potential commercial hit is ‘Seven Psychopaths’ with Colin Farrell, Christopher Walken and Sam Rockwell. We saw a great clip from this one, and it looks to be set up as a smart, entertaining slice of swearladen excitement. Other notable titles are ‘Rust and Bone’, ‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’ and one that looks to be my personal unexpected treat, ‘Painless’. Info: The London Film Festival will run from 10 – 21 October. For more information and to book tickets visit www.bfi.org. uk/lff

SCREEN

SPARKLE Whitney Houstons Swansong Tmovie ‘Sparkle’ is set he release of new

“People are going to be thrilled, maybe some will be surprised, but she [Sparks] establishes herself as a real movie star and a real actress with this movie and it’s an exciting debut to watch.”

to be an emotional one for music lovers and film fans alike. A remake of a 1976 film of the same name, this version is now best known for featuring final on screen appearance by Whitney Houston. Playing the strong matriarch in the film, Houston portrays Emma, who serves up a dose of reality to her daughters. The siblings dream of finding fame and fortune as singers, but Emma knows that 1960’s Detroit might be home to Motown, but is also part of a divided America. Director Salim Akil, who previously made ‘Jumping the Broom’ has warm words of praise for the late star. “What she’s giving you in this film is what she’s given consistently since we’ve known her as an artist and that is quality, subtlety, knowing how to play the quiet moments and knowing how to restrain herself in the

Producer T.D. Jakes sums up his thoughts on the cast, which include Derek Luke, Mike Epps as well as British star Carmen Ejogo:

Words: CASSAM LOOCH

bigger moments, so that her Emma anchors the movie. She was excited about playing it, and she’s amazing in it.” Houston herself spoke during filming about her excitement at being involved both infront of the camera, and behind the scenes as an executive producer. Of her role as the head of the musical family, Houston said: “She [Emma] wants them

to stay her little girls, but of course, they grow up. Her oldest daughter goes to New York and comes back home with a New York attitude, so trying to keep her girls grounded and not let the influences of what was happening with the music and dancing overwhelm her family, is her most important mission.” Playing the eponymous Sparkle in the movie is a young singer and actress who is on a rapid rise of her own. Jordin Sparks not only has the perfect name, according producer Debra Martin Chase, she also has the right qualities on camera.

“This cast is tremendous. They’re just as much fun off screen as they are on screen. I think they bring a freshness to the characters, and a newness and an edge to the story that I think is very, very provocative for those of us who have seen the original Sparkle. To those who have never seen it, I think you’ll be riveted because the cast is quite believable, very, very talented, very, very gifted people, and though they have a lot of fun doing their job, they’re still very professional at being able to deliver cinematically the power of a very prolific and profound story.” The sadness that will inevitably come with watching the film should be balanced by remembering the talent the star had. Both as a screen icon, and, of course, as a singing legend, Houston will be remembered for performances like this. Info: Sparkle is released in the UK on Friday 5 October Sony Pictures Releasing (UK) LIME MAGAZINE 2012

SCREEN

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

-31 October Downham Library Film Club: Black History Month Special On each Monday in October, our film club screenings for adults will be themed to Black History Month. Info: 6pm, Downham Library.

- 06 October South African Film Shorts Curated by The New Black Film Network, enjoy contemporary features with shorts, debates, music, info and more in our popup cinema lounge. South African performances include Zena Edwards (The Three Furies) and Sonia Radebe (Inception). Info: 6pm, www.thealbany. org.uk

REVIEW

October Film premiere with live debate – The Importance of Black History

Time2Shine Live Final 2012 Lime Rating: Words: Vernia Mengot On Sunday 16th September a tremendous crowd turned out to witness and support the final eight Time2Shine gospel vocalists who took to the stage with the performance of their life in a bid to be crowned the winner of Time2Shine talent search 2012. An evening that promised praise and worship, boasted some of the hottest gospel talent right here in the UK. Presented by unbelievable vocalist Rachel Kerr, the show kicked off with a fantastic performance enlightening the audience with the spirit of the Lord. The audience where then joined by the judges founder of Time2Shine Ministry; Mercy B, writer/ 34 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Young people from Islington team up with award winning filmmaker Nosa Igbindion to bring us a riveting and engaging new documentary exploring the importance of Black History and whether educational curriculums can be more inclusive to reflect the globalised world and multicultural society we live in today. Info: 7pm, King’s Place, York Way, N1 9AG, www. islington.gov.uk/bhm

-28 October London Screenwriters Festival The world’s biggest professional screenwriter’s event returns to London at Regent’s College this year. Over the three days of the London Screenwriters’ Festival the industry’s top professionals will hold an intense and immersive set of lectures, seminars, workshops, script pitches and networking opportunities. Whether you are an experienced screenwriter, or an aspiring one, the London

radio host Angie Le mar, MOBO Award winning Christian rapper Guvna B, producer Mark Beswick guest judge of the night, Douglas Ross . The popular London venue Troxy; hosted this exciting evening of entertainment with performances by last year’s winners; Divine Divine plus Victizzle &

Screenwriters Festival offers unparalleled access to speakers, teachers, show-runners, executives and decision makers from the UK and beyond. Over one hundred seminars, workshops and networking events for professional screenwriters will take place. Info: www.londonscreen writersfestival.com

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

October Hoodwinked Don’t miss the UK premiere of the long awaited sequel to 2007 Best African American Documentary What Black Men Think. Award winning filmmaker Janks Norton challenges how myths and stereotypes have been internalised by the Black community, reinforcing a collective misperception of identity. Info: 7pm, King’s Place, York Way, N1 9AG. www. islington.gov.uk/bhm

Utter Once, Triple O, Lola Godheld and Jay Ess. With the contestants going through a tough elimination process the night concluded with a head to head showdown between the two finalists Tara and Boma. Both were brilliant; but it was Boma Diri’s show-stopping vocals and powerful ministry that got the majority vote from the live audience and she was crowned winner of Time2Shine 2012,

-13 November London Young Film Festival The Annual London Young Film Festival is one of Europe’s leading film festivals for filmmakers under 26. It’s a unique platform for new talent and a celebration of youthful creativity and innovation. The festival attracts a variety of filmmakers from across the world and offers Londoners an extraordinary glimpse in to the future of cinema. The festival is aimed to provide opportunities for talented young filmmakers from all over the world to learn together and exhibit their work. 2012 will show more than 100 films from over a dozen countries. Training is central to the LYFF mission, and a full programme of intensive film instruction accompanies the annual film exhibition. The Festival also operated as a key section of the London Arts Festival and offers access for local young people to a world-class film event. Info: www.lyff.org.uk

becoming the recipient of several life changing prizes; including a chance to record an album and an international tour. Above all there was no doubt that the finalists had talent and the variety of vocal ability was incredible. It was a great evening overall with a commendable winner! Info: 16th September, aired Sunday’s at 7pm on Vox Africa, (Sky Channel 218. www.time2shineministry. com

October Author reading: Jacob Whittingham Join author Jacob Whittingham where he’ll be discussing and reading excerpts from his book, What Being Black is, And What Being Black Isn’t at Waterstones. Info: 6.30pm, Waterstones, Islington Green. www. islington.gov.uk/bhm

- 27 October Jonzi D — Lyrikal Fearta

Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Jonzi D returns to his creative roots to perform his ‘lyrikal fearta’. For many years Jonzi D has been known as the face leading the hip hop revolution that is Breakin’ Convention. Jonzi is now launching out on his own again, returning to the stage after ten years as a creator of sharp, relevant and poetic dance theatre with two programmes of works made up of past hits and new creations.

til November World Shakespeare Festival The World Shakespeare Festival is a celebration of Shakespeare as the world’s playwright. Produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company, it is an unprecedented collaboration with leading UK and international arts organisations. Globe to Globe it will bring

Body Gossip the book hits the shelves!

After six years collating three hundred real body stories from all over the UK and beyond, founder of Body Gossip Ruth Rogers and actor, writer and former model Natasha Devon proudly announced the launch their first ever Body Gossip book. In 2008 the former classmates joined forces after Ruth originally founded the campaign in 2006 while studying acting in New York, where she experienced first- hand the pressures to look “perfect”. She returned to the UK and was determined to start a movement that challenged this battle for perfection that allowed real bodies to step into the limelight. Meanwhile Natasha was launching her own body confidence campaign in schools and colleges, having overcome an eating disorder, which later became ‘Gossip School’. The book which includes a

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together productions from a hugely diverse array of countries. This major international programme enables thousands of students and teachers from countries such as China, Czech Republic, India, South Africa, Ukraine and Vietnam to take part through international collaborations, conferences and learning events. The World Shakespeare Festival is supported by BP, as Founding Presenting Partner, and by the National Lottery through the Olympic Lottery Distributor and Arts Council England. Running between April and November this forms part of the London 2012 Festival, which is the culmination of the Cultural Olympiad, where leading artists from all over the world come together in

foreword by Gok Wan and contributions from celebs including Alesha Dixon, Jermain Defoe, Craig Revel-Horwood and many more unveils short stories that cover everything body image related from dieting and exercise to disability and illness. The selections of pieces are from people of all ages, races, shapes, sizes, sexualities and of both genders; with each chapter including an introduction from campaigners Ruth and Natasha with an unairbrushed photograph of a naked body part – a real, non-model. The Body Gossip book

a UK-wide festival in the summer. Info: www. worldshakespearefestival. org.uk

til 25 November Shakespeare staging the world. This year the World Shakespeare Festival will run concurrent with the London 2012 Olympics and The British Museum is staging an exhibition that will explore the world of Shakespeare. In collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company; the exhibition will provide unique insight into the emergence of London as a world city, seen through the innovative perspective of Shakespeare’s plays. Info: www.britishmuseum. org

LITERATURE/SPOKEN WORD

MONTH

October Speaking Volumes with Jacob Sam-LaRose Local young people from Lewisham’s Speaking Volumes project celebrate their creative work and launch a touring collection of contemporary poetry on National Poetry Day. Info: 7pm, Deptford Lounge, 9 Giffin Street, Deptford, London, SE8 4RJ. www.thealbany.org.uk

Working with a small team of performers and a live band, both evenings will have music, poetry, movement, politics and wit; promising a rare insight into arguably the best known figure and advocate of UK hip hop dance. Info: Lilian Baylis Studio, Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R. www.sadlerswells. com

along with short films, tours, seminars and events helps to spread the word about positive body image. The campaign which is run entirely voluntarily relies on the generosity of its ambassadors, supporters and members of the public. Money raised by Body Gossip goes towards making new films, hosting more events and helps to build the campaign to get even more people in the UK talking about body image. Info: Body Gossip is in partnership with The Succeed Foundation and Lynn Crilly www.bodygossip.org

NEWS

BLACK HISTORY

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

LITERATURE/SPOKEN WORD

BLACK HISTORY

Breturns once again

lack history Month

and while a history should be never forgotten a concerted reminder to remember cannot be bad. BHM is about bringing that history in entertaining, educational and thought provoking ways and Bernard Kordieh director of 4FrontTV is one of the fore runners in bringing BHM to people. Last year Bernard Kordieh filmed a successful month long series called ‘Is It Because I Iz a Poet’ where poets were filmed and asked to give their interpretation of BHM. This year Bernard returns with the enigmatic Is It Because I Iz a Poet, bringing a host of talented lyrically geniuses to bring BHM in all its profound, inspiring and informative guises. This is your second year filming for the BHMwhat are your plans for this year? Pretty much the same as last year - creating a platform for some of London’s most prolific lyricists to spit some truth. Last year raised a few eyebrows is terms of subject matter. One of the broadcasters even refused to air a video. Poetry is a subjective art form. This series is all about freedom of speech so when you mix it up with black history it can get a little bit emotional. What are the challenges 36 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

MONTH

Of course more can be done. I think it all begins at home though. We can’t expect the mainstream to educate us. We need to educate ourselves and our peers. We also need to want to be educated.

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

in what you are doing? BHM is a celebration of black history and black culture but in my experience this is not always the way it is viewed by non African/ Afro Caribbean people. They can sometimes feel excluded. I believe although it is culturally significant to black people, BHM is a shared history, a history we can all learn from. That is why the line up this year is even more diverse than the previous. It is difficult conveying BHM to a varied audience? It is one of the biggest challenges for a project like this to be received by

everyone in the way it is intended to, which is to educate, to celebrate, to pose questions and to inspire. What you’re going to hear is not likely to be all rosy but like they say, in order to move forward you have to look back. What was the most memorable part of the last BHM? I received a lot positive feedback from all around the world. This year’s official Media partner is VOX Africa. The series will be broadcast in the UK, Europe and Africa. This year it will be broadcast online (4fronttv.com and manorlogz.co.uk) and on VOX Africa SKY 218 everyday throughout the month of October. Do you think that BHM receives enough publicity in the bigger media outlets or could more be done?

As a black director what challenges have you faced on your way up? The film & television industry is a tough nut to crack regardless of race. To be a successful director you need to adopt a very inclusive approach to your work that transcends race and gender. The only challenges I have faced have been the ones I have imposed on myself. Is the world of media still a difficult place for ethnic minorities per se? Yes, mainly because we do not support each other enough. There is a lot of talent out there but not enough productive collaboration. There is also a lot of gate keeping. This means we have to work together to build our own castles and open our own gates. Finish the sentenceBHM is... A time to reflect and progress. Info: www.4front-Media.com www.4fronttv.com www.manorlogz.co.uk www.manorlogz.co.uk http://twitter.com/ manorlogz Broadcast Monday to Friday: 7.25pm (after the evening news)

The AFRICAN Writers Series TSeries was established he African Writers

in 1962 by Heinemann. For many years its name has been synonymous with excellence in African writing. Renowned authors such as Chinua Achebe, Ngugi Wa Thiong’o, Bessie Head and Dambudzo Marechera (to mention a few) have had some of their best work published under this iconic name. When it first emerged the African

LITERATURE/SPOKEN WORD

WORDS: lynette lisk

Writers series gave African writers of original fiction the chance to tell their own stories and to write back to the world. In May 2008 The AWS joined the Pearson family; Pearson has been committed to promoting the best in African publishing. As part of this commitment Pearson are publishing new editions of some of the most notable works in the series alongside completely new works.

Our Latest Books

Sterile Sky

Author E. E. Sule is the penname of Dr. Sule E. Egya, who teaches in the English department of the University of Abuja, Nigeria. Besides published academic work and essays, Dr.Egya is the author of

the short story collections Impotent Heavens and Dream and Shame, and the poetry volumes Naked Sun, Knifing Tongues and What the Sea Told Me. His poems, short stories, and critical work have appeared in numerous journals, anthologies and literary magazines Synopsis As the gifted young Murtala comes of age in Kano, violent riots and his family’s own woes threaten to erase all he holds dear. Stalked by monsters real and imagined, desperate to preserve a sense of self and the future, Murtala hunts for answers in the wreckage of the city and gives us a unique insight into modern life in northern Nigeria. Mould-breaking in its tackling of religious conflict, this extraordinary first novel offers a powerful portrait of an African community in shock and transition.

The Grub Hunter

Author Amir Tag Elsir, a Sudanese doctor and writer currently living in Doha, Qatar author of a poetry collection, two biographies and ten novels. - “…widely recognised as a giant amongst Arabic fiction writers.” - Daily News Egypt Synopsis The Grub Hunter tells the story of Abdullah Harfash, a former secret service agent who is determined to become a writer after an accident costs him his leg and forces him to

retire. The quest to become a writer takes him on a curious and often comic journey. Amir Tag Elsir’s novel is filled with strange situations and even stranger characters such as the renowned author A.T. who becomes an unlikely mentor to Harfash. This sharply original novel explores notions on identity and writing with wit and humour. - Said al-Yaraqat [The Grub Hunter] was shortlisted for the Arab Book Prize in 2010 Info: Web: http://www. pearsonschools andfecolleges.co.uk These books are available on www.amazon.co.uk LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Gary Crosby

COMMUNITY

Words: Vernia Mengot

Curator of the Lively Up! Festival

Tgroundbreaking events his autumn sees 20

across the UK, in the new Lively Up! Festival which includes; exciting concerts, talks and events that showcase the extraordinary talents of an eclectic mix of performers, artistes and musicians. Curator of the festival which celebrates Jamaica’s cultural icons; Gary Crosby OBE, is the Artistic Director of Tomorrow’s Warriors and nephew of the great Jamaican guitarist, Ernest Ranglin OD. Crosby is one of the UK’s most highly regarded and influential jazz artists and educators; having received a selection of awards ranging from the BBC Jazz Award for Best Ensemble (Jazz Jamaica All Stars), an OBE for Services to Music in HM The Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2009; and the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Jazz Education in 2012. In this interview Lime caught up with Gary Crosby to talk about preparations for the Lively Up! Festival, his committed involvement with Tomorrow’s Warriors and the importance of Black History Month. How are preparations for the Lively Up! Festival going? We are in rehearsal stages at the moment. It starts at the end of the month on 28th September. We’re having great fun.

38 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

What has the response been like? Where getting lots of Facebook and tweets, with people saying “Yes, it’s about time!” There is approval especially in the artistic community. There are chats and talks, and it’s good to see there is an online presence about the Lively Up! festival. I hope the interest in the festival continues and I would like to see some more dialogue.

Most organisations say funding is their biggest obstacle. The festival is supported by Arts Council England and PRS for Music Foundation, was it challenging to get these organisations to back your project? We are National portfolio organisation and have been working with the Arts Council. There is a certain bit of expertise within the organisation. We’ve had fantastic results over the last 10 years. The festival is an attempt to engage with the black community and to encourage the black communities to engage in the arts. When did you realise you were passionate about music as an art form? Not until early my twenties as an art form. But music generally is something that I participated in and enjoyed as far back as I can remember.

I saw music as a way of contributing back to something. It’s a function to help change the world What would you say influences your love of music? Culture sits at the top of the tree for me. I listen to a lot of other musicians because in learning an art form, I learn something from all of them; people like Duke Ellington, Cedrick Brooks and of course Bob Marley. And I would say they’re the first types of musicians that I heard where music could be used to communicate and not from a commercial point. Tell us about the establishment Tomorrow’s Warriors? It started quite innocently in 1991 as basically an open-mic-jam session at

the Jazz Cafe, to encourage more young black people from my community and getting them an opportunity to play jazz. Jazz is a social music and you have to play in a group environment. Tomorrow’s Warriors was the start of a tradition and early beginnings. You recently received the Parliamentary Award for Jazz Education, how did that feel? It felt good. It’s always good to be acknowledged. Although, I believe that prize was for Tomorrows Warriors; we are a team that have been working together for the last 20 years.

COMMUNITY

wanted success in this industry? My first thing for people is to first find your social relevance; for me that comes from my politics. Success has failed black people in the music industry; potentially good human beings have been shattered, look at the story of Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. The thing that has worked for me is... I saw music as a way of contributing back to something. It’s a function to help change the world.

Nigerian Carnival

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

What is the importance of Black History Month? I think it gives us a month to focus on certain issues. There are certain aspects of Black History, possibly thirty to forty years that are not spoken about. It’s an opportunity to talk about the forgotten.

What has been the highlight of your career so far? The one thing that has been a highlight was looking at my Mum and Dad when I went for an OBE; as much as it was a struggle for me to take it and being involved in the whole process. It’s as much their award as it is mine. For African/Caribbean’s that came to this country; semi-skilled or un-skilled, it was a group of people who came to this country, who came here with hope. My parents are part of that. Taking that award was for them. What advice would you give to someone who

Info: Lively Up! Festival 28 September-2 November 2012 Lively Up! is an exciting new festival of music on tour curated by our award-winning Artistic Director, musician and producer, Gary Crosby OBE and produced by Dune Music in association with Tomorrow’s Warriors. In 2012 we mark the 50th Anniversary of Jamaica’s independence with a celebration of the kaleidoscope of the island’s music and heritage. Lively Up! will tour to 17 venues across 10 UK cities in 2012 including London, Leicester, Southampton, Harrow, Bristol, Birmingham, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh, and features a fabulous programme of high quality live music concerts and participatory activities for all ages Website: www. livelyupfestival.com www.tomorrowswarriors. org Twitter: @Tom_Warriors

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BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

October S.I Martin’s Black History Month walking tour Renowned historian, S.I. Martin will lead a 90 minute Black History Month theme walking tour of Deptford and New Cross. The walk will take you back through the centuries as you journey through local landmarks. Info: 10.30am-12pm. www. thealbany.org.uk

October Nigerian Carnival Kennington Park will host the Annual Nigerian Carnival. Founder, Kashif Jones-Laguda aims to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and showcase the culture and commercial vibrancy the country has. Don’t miss this year’s carnival parade, live music, cultural dance, business exhibition, fashion show, historical exhibition, food exhibition, children playground, language workshop and fun fair activities. Info: Empire Cinema, Leicester Square. www. nigeriancarnival.org

October Stand up for your community, Be a councillor All women who live and work in Islington are invited to a fee, informal and child-friendly event to find out how to represent your community be becoming a local councillor. Learn how you can influence decisions, hear from inspirational women in local politics and find out how to get practical help. Info: 3.30pm-6pm, Islington Town Hall, Upper Street N1 2UD. www. islington.gov.uk/bhm

November The Black Youth Achievement Awards

The Black Youth Achievements are proud to highlight the true face of youth with their 4th annual awards ceremony. The BYA Awards aspire to be the UK’s premier ceremony of recognition for young people of Black Caribbean / Black African heritage and will be back again this November. Info: www. blackyouthachievements. org LIME MAGAZINE 2012

CLUBS

‘Mavrik by name, maverick by nature’ Effortlessly cool Miss Mavrik talks house music, international tours and bad boyfriends!

GManchester Miss rowing up in

Mavrik had easy access to the rising dance scene that the North West of England was renowned for. The pioneering sounds of many upcoming DJ’s, the inspiration from pirate radio and her love of house music channelled her desire to buy some decks, move to London and pursue he dreams of becoming a DJ. Since her debut in 2005, she now holds a string of international and UK dates which includes residency in London, Istanbul, Ibiza, Rome, Madrid and St Tropez. Miss Mavrik is also the current face of Kam DJ Equipment and The 00DJ, hosts several radio sessions aired across Europe and a weekly progressive session on London’s foremost underground global radio station, Unknown FM. After appearing in the hilarious comedy blockbuster ‘How To Win Friends and Alienate People” alongside Simon Pegg, Miss Mavrik is now one of the panellists on ITV2 ‘s new Peter Andre show ‘Bad Boyfriend Club’, voting the worst boyfriend off each week. Having recently joining Boy George on the decks for Shoreditch club, McQueen’s 2nd Birthday Party; Lime Magazine caught up with Pushca’s newly appointed resident DJ during London Fashion Week to talk new productions and her unforgettable summer sessions this year. How are you enjoying the events taking place at London Fashion Week? Really really cool, I’m just here with a couple of 40 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Words: Vernia Mengot

friends, there are loads of quirky, cool people. I haven’t been into all the display rooms to see all the exhibitions yet but I’m going to go in there next, and then there is another show. You’ve recently been a panellist for the ITV2 program, Peter Andre’s ‘Bad Boyfriend Club’, how was the experience for you? That’s been absolutely wicked; it’s been so much fun. We filmed it nearly two months ago now and it started (on ITV2) six weeks ago. Its five girls and we’re the panellists on his new show. We’ve done loads of work on it. It’s been really good and its one to watch! Where can people hear your skills, tell us about some of the spots you hold DJ residency? You can find me on a Friday night; I’ve got a residency at Eclipse Club in South Kensington and I also play at a club called McQueen’s which is in Hoxton. You catch me all over the place. I play anywhere from The Edge to Pacha, they’re my two residencies that you’ll find me at the moment. What has been the highlight of your career so far? Well I tell you what; I’ve got a nice trip to Brazil coming up, four gigs in Sao Paolo, Rio and Brazillia. That’s going to be something quite good and I’m really looking forward to that. I’ve got a few gigs in Europe. Moscow was great! I did a great gig over there. It’s somewhere you don’t get to go to normally, that was a really cool gig for me and I

met some really cool, down to earth party people. What would you say is the type of music you like to play the most? I love progressive house, but I don’t always get to play progressive house. A lot of the time I play club house which is your general classic house tunes. But my love is progressive and most of the tracks that I produce are progressive tunes. What advice would you give to someone who’s passionate about music and wanted to get into DJ’ing in the club scene, what is your number one piece of advice? Just stick it out! Stick it out as long as you can and also you’ve really got to network and keep up on being out and about; meeting people and meeting promoters. You have to put a lot work in to it. It’s not just having a good music collection; you’ve got build your name, promote yourself and get a website running. Be out there all the time meeting people. Networking is important. It can be hard at times, but stick it out and eventually you’ll get a little break from that.

What’s next on your radar? I’ve got Brazil coming up, a week of tour dates. I come back in to London, and then I’m in the studio as I’ve got a new project that I’m working on. And what about your international schedule? Brazil, Croatia and I am waiting for a possible sign up in Romania. You’ve got a bit of an accent there, where did you grow up? So I’m originally from a town called Wigan, in Manchester. I moved to London about ten years ago, I’ve definitely not lost my accent. I go home as often as I can, but I do have to say that I am an Honorary Londoner now to be fair. What keeps you grounded? Having to pay me bills. [Laughs] What keeps me grounded is just my good group of friends, I have a really great social life, I was in the past a bit of a party girl. I’m just very real and very Northern. Info: Website: www.missmavrik. com Facebook: djmissmavrik Twitter: @missmavrik

line-up are Audiowhores (Defected) and longstanding residents, My Digital Enemy and Femi B who offer the odes to the stars as they soundtrack the night with their sexy and sultry skills. Info: 10pm-12pm, EGG, 200 York Way, Kings Cross, London, N7 9AP. www.egglondon.net

ery Thursday Thursday Funk Blending the best in Brazilian and South American music with soul, Baile Funk, House and Latin beats are resident DJ’s Limao & Moishe rocking the decks till late with their eclectic selection. Its ‘all night party” vibe reflects the mash up of styles currently dominating the latin music scene and expect hot edits and remixes plus classic dancefloor rhythms, all topped off with a 7 piece Live Band to bring the soul and funk to the night. Getting everyone in the mood is the acclaimed Sax Player, Renato D’Aiello, Live! and it’s a perfect example of the rhythms that make Brazilian music famous worldwide. Info: Guanabara, Parker Street, Covent Garden, WC2B 5PW

wall to wall with the very people that gave birth to the sound of samba. Forró is the dance for everyone and its infectious friendly atmosphere continues to make Sundays one of the most special evenings in the capital. Info: 5pm-Midnight, Parker Street (Corner of Drury Lane), Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5PW, www. guanabara.co.uk

ery Friday- Saturday The Euro Disco Club at Bunga Bunga This month Bunga Bunga will launch The Euro Disco Club; The Eurovison Club will offer its own unique variation on the European pastiche downstairs, being entirely dedicated to The Eurovision Song Contest. The walls will be covered with memorabilia from this annual institution and karaoke is the order of the day, with guests having the chance to belt out ABBA and Buck’s Fizz hits on a stage, hoping to make it into the ‘The Nul Points Hall of Fame’. A Eurotrashinspired fancy dress box will offer enough flares, spandex and lamé to keep revelers entertained and dancing until dawn. Info: 37 Battersea Bridge Road, London, SW11 3BA. Tel: 020 7095 0360, www. bungabunga-london.com, info@bungabunga-london. com

ery Sunday BRAZIL BRASILEIRO A night where you can get a true taste of Brazil, packed

PTA FINGERS

October LAYO & BUSHWACKA! present ‘RISING AND FALLING’ ALBUM LAUNCH PARTY Layo & Bushwacka return for a brand new party to launch their forthcoming LP “Rising and Falling” on Saturday 6th October. Very special guest and hot creator, Richy Ahmed, joins the duo and the Leading Astray collective once again host the terrace. Stand by for full transmission... Legendary production and DJ duo Layo & Bushwacka! are set to release their first artist album in six years! Their fourth album ‘Rising & Falling’, is due for release on 22nd October via their label Olmeto. Info: 10pm-11am, www.egglondon.net

October Bodymove Presents: Hollywood Forever Halloween Special As the moon rises in it’s full and enigmatic glory, one of London’s favourite promotions step into the light with the resurrection

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of the famous, glamorous, and chivalrous at the forefront of its purpose on this chilling mid-winter eve. EGG nightclub are ready to roll out the red carpet for the dearly departed Hollywood icons who star as the leading men and women in London’s biggest Halloween Party as Bodymove Presents the Hollywood Forever Halloween Special. With last year’s event the talk of the undead, this year will once again deliver no shortage of chills, thrills and debauchery as Hollywood Forever (the resting place of Hollywood immortals) is upon us a second time. Opening the EGG church doors to a horror wonderland with a graveyard aptly dripping in fog and the chic and glamour of the dead, it’s time Marilyn, Jackson, Summers, Rebeiro, Winehouse and anyone else who has walked the living’s walk of fame awake through the bodies of our EGG revellers to play in the dark once again.Join in to raise a glass to a frivolous celebration of the dead famous… DJs Headlining this massive 15 hour event are award winning Spanish DJ and producer, David Penn. Pablo Ceballos, founder of the respected label Stereo Productions and resident of some of the best clubs in the world follows suit, RAE, round of the dazzling

CLUBS

-04 November Scottish Soulful Weekender After a hugely successful

debut event last year, the SSW2 returns for three more massive days at The Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries, with its proximity to the border attracting House and soul worshippers from all over the country, keen to soak up the vibe generated by over 70 international DJs and live acts playing the best in soulful music across the dance music spectrum. Spread across four arenas, SSW2 showcases headliners such as the legendary New York DJ, Tony Humphries; Baltimore’s DJ Spen; Norway’s Prins Thomas; Motor City Ensemble from Germany; the legendary UK DJ’s Paul ‘Trouble’ Anderson and Greg Wilson; soul and jazz legends Ian Levine, Snowboy and Ian Wright and Live Acts such as Driza-bone, E-Man, Ray Harris Fusion Experience and Darrow Fletcher. SSW2 is the winter event for discerning soul music lovers. SSW2 also boasts a rare record and merchandise fair in the heart of the weekender venue with stalls selling weekender T-shirts and elusive vinyl. Info: The Cairndale Hotel, English Street, Dumfries DG1 2DF, Scotland, 01387 254111, soul@ cairndalehotel.co.uk, www. scottishsoulweekender.com LIME MAGAZINE 2012

Stephen K. Amos Words: Vernia Mengot

COMEDY

Sknown for his hilarious tephen K. Amos is best

feel-good comedy. Starting out in front of a small audience years ago, he has since gone on to sell-out tours and has graced our radio’s and television screens through the likes of Channel 4 and The BBC. Proving that he is no stranger to the comedy circuit, he’s back with a brand new stand-up show, ‘Laughter Is My Agenda’ which promises to be even better than his sell out show at the Edinburgh Festival earlier this year. Lime managed to catch up with Amos ahead of opening his show this month to discuss his love for comedy, entertainment and what the audience can expect from his new tour.

When did you realise that you had the ability to make people laugh? Well I didn’t actually realise. I think that with all families there is someone or one or two or three funny people in the family; or of course friends, you go out with your friends and there is always someone who’s going to do pranks or something stupid. But the first time I realised I could make a room full of strangers laugh was when I did my first ever professional paid gig. I had no idea how it would work but I just thought I’d go and have a laugh. What does it take to stand out in 42 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

This month Lime gets talking to prolific writer, performer, actor and comedian Stephen K. Amos

the comedy circuit? I think it takes originality, a really good comedic sense of view, the ability to handle most situations and most importantly live stand up comedy. If you can do it live in front of strangers then you’re on your way. What can the audience expect from your new tour ‘Laughter Is My Agenda’? Well basically what it says on the tin. My agenda is to make people laugh whole heartedly the whole time I’m on stage. How does this show differ from other shows you’ve done?

The last few shows I’ve done have been kind of semi-autobiographical. But I’m talking about a bit more general things which people can relate to. Entertaining on stage is only a part of what you do. You’ve also had some more serious roles in television; tell us about Stephen the actor. Well that came about because of doing stand up. As a kid I was quite interested in doing drama at school and all that sort of stuff. I was a Sheep in a nativity play - that got me started. So just by doing stand up, I’ve been very lucky enough as I was getting calls from casting people who would say “Oh you might be good for this.” which was quite nice to do something quite serious, when people know you for just being a funny bloke. I’m just waiting for Hollywood to call me. Whatever Will Smith can’t do I’m available for. What new projects are you working on at the moment? I’ve got a book coming out called “I used to say my mother was Shirley Bassey”. It’s not an autobiography it’s more a sort of memoir of little stories from my life that I feel are quite funny or quite poignant. I’m very excited. I’ve just seen the first hard

back copy and its going to be in all good book shops. I’ve got a radio series that I’m doing as well for Radio 4 and I’m in talks to do a sitcom for the BBC which is quite exciting.

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH

What is the importance of Black History Month? I’ve been very fortunate to have been asked to take part in various kinds of events especially within the last few years of Black History Month. It’s very important and we must not ever forget that there are a very very large proportion of black people in London, and through the whole there are a lot people who are not visible; in terms of the top jobs in business and even in the media who are underrepresented. So it’s very vital; all the events where I’ve attended or been speaking at have been for the whole population of schools or colleges and I think it’s just an educational vice; because I remember doing history when I was in school and all we were taught about if you were black in the 70’s and 80’s was mainly about how the black people where slaves, so it’s quite nice to be able to find out a bit more and have more pride in where we are and where we come from and what we can achieve. Info: Website: www. stephenkamos.com Email: info@stephenkamos. com Twitter: @stephenkamos

My agenda is to make people laugh whole heartedly the whole time I’m on stage

October Stephen K AmosLaughter Is My Agenda The maestro of feelgood comedy and star of television and radio, Stephen is back with his new stand-up show after a sell-out show at the Edinburgh Festival. Info: 8pm, Ashcroft theatre, Fairfield Halls, Croydon.

October Roar with Laughter ZSL is proud to present the comedy event of the year – Roar with Laughter! Promising to be a top night out; the evening features cutting-edge talent including Phill Jupitus, Andy Parsons, Jon Richardson, Sarah Kendall, Richard Herring, Ed Byrne, Lucy Porter and Greg Burns. ZSL’s aim is to make you roar with laughter, and in turn, you can help them with their mission to save Tigers. All profits for the event will go to ZSL and specifically their work on Tigers. Info: 7pm. www. hammersmithapollo.com

October She Want a Man Yaddyboy entertainment presents Ricky Rowe’s new comedy, from the producers of ‘Four Bulla an a Patty’ and ‘Dutty Money’. Info: 8pm, Broadway Theatre. www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk

October Laugh Till It Hurts in Aid of Save The Children The Comedy Store will host this charity benefit gig in aid of Save the Children. Yusuf hosts a bill which includes Marlon Davis, Carl Donnelly, John Fothergill, Keith Farnan and Sara Pascoe. Info: 8pm, www. thecomedystore.co.uk

October Comedy Slam! A comedy night in support

The line-up includes Jo Brand, Nina Conti, Imran Yusuf, Robin Ince, Daniel Simonsen, Nick Revell, Stewart Francis and others to be announced. The benefits of laughter are wide-ranging, including reducing stress, boosting the immune system and connecting us with others. So come along and help improve your own wellbeing as well as raising much-needed funds for mental health services in South London. Info: 7.30pm, www. southbankcentre.co.uk

was born to be special. His mother’s heartbeat, the apple of his grandmother’s eye, teacher’s pet, the girl dem sugar. He is always the centre of female attention (attraction) and he loves it! Sejanus is now forty, and he’s ready to settle down. He’s ready for the whole “Till Death So Us Part” thing - one marriage, one woman, one home. But who will become “Mrs. Sejanus Jackson”?! However there is a twist when he suddenly passes away and they fight over who shall get his riches.... the competition is on, and as they say, all’s fair in love and war... Info: 8pm, Broadway Theatre. www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk

of mental health services in South London led by Jo Brand, who was a psychiatric nurse for ten years.

October Russell Kane

Comedian Russell Kane takes his new show around the UK this autumn. Russell explains ““What if I’m one of the guys who never has a baby? Why is this not a male subject? I plan to give birth, live on stage, then raise it - in front of you. Come along!” Info: HMV Apollo, Hammersmith,Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, London, W6 9QH. www.venues. meanfiddler.com

-11 November Frankie Boyle Frankie Boyle has been pilloried, misrepresented and demonised. And for what? For Telling It Like It Is. Now he will attempt a final tour, to heal Britain’s fools. To support its rioters. To offer the inchoate laughter of despair to a culture in freefall. These are The Last Days of Sodom. Info: 7pm, www. hammersmith apollo.com

November My Big Fat Jamaican Funeral Harmony productions presents; this hilarious comedy play returning to the Broadway Theatre by popular demand. Being the only boy in a family of 32 women, Sejanus Jackson

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Stephen K. Amos

November- 3 December Michael McIntyre

COMEDY

Michael McIntyre, one of the UK’s most popular comics with his debut DVD ‘Live and Laughing’ was the fastest selling of all time, only to be eclipsed by his second ‘Hello Wembley’. He now hosts his own BAFTA nominated BBC 1 series ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’. Info: www.wembleyarena. co.uk November Greg Davies

Don’t miss this brand new show from one of the most successful and critically acclaimed stand-ups in the UK. Following the thrice extended sell-out success of his five star reviewed and Foster’s comedy award nominated show Firing Cheeseballs At A Dog, Greg Davies returns with his brand new stand-up show The Back of My Mum’s Head. Info: 7pm, www. hammersmith apollo.com LIME MAGAZINE 2012

TAKE A BREAK BREAKTIME

PUZZLE AND JOKE PAGES THAT ARE FUN FOR ALL

Magic Alquerque Fill the grid with numbers 1 through 9. In no row, column and none of the drawn diagonals is reapeated any number. Smaller Example:

44 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

FUNNIES

TEST YOUR BRAIN ON THESE

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

EASIER

BREAKTIME

SUDOKU

HARDER

LAUGH OUT LOUD! SOME PICTURES ARE TOO FUNNY NOT TO SHARE

LIME MAGAZINE 2012

BREAKTIME

LAUGH OUT LOUDER! Caught Speeding Woman: Is there a problem, Officer? Officer: Ma’am, you were speeding. Woman: Oh, I see. Officer: Can I see your license please? Woman: I’d give it to you but I don’t have one. Officer: Don’t have one? Woman: Lost it 4 times for drunk driving. Officer: I see...Can I see your vehicle registration papers please. Woman: I can’t do that. Officer: Why not? Woman: I stole this car. Officer: Stole it? Woman: Yes, and I killed and hacked up the owner. Officer: You what? Woman: His body parts are in plastic bags in the trunk if you want to see. The Officer looks at the woman, slowly backs away to his car, and calls for back up. Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A senior officer slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun. Officer 2: Ma’am, could you step out of your vehicle please! The woman steps out of her vehicle. Woman: Is there a problem sir? Officer 2: One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car and murdered the owner. Woman: Murdered the owner? Officer 2: Yes, could you please open the trunk of your car, please. The woman opens the trunk, revealing nothing but an empty trunk. Officer 2: Is this your car, ma’am? Woman: Yes, here are the registration papers.

46 LIME MAGAZINE 2012

The first officer is stunned. Officer 2: One of my officers claims that you do not have a driving license. The woman digs into her handbag and pulls out a clutch purse and hands it to the officer. The officer snaps open the clutch purse and examines the license. He looks quite puzzled. Officer 2: Thank you ma’am, one of my officers told me you didn’t have a license, that you stole this car, and that you murdered and hacked up the owner. Woman: Betcha the lying bastard told you I was speeding too.

Why did you have to die?

A man was at a grave yard.

He began to moan “Why did you die oh why did you have to die?” A passer by knelt down next to the man and said “Was this person very close to you?” “No, actually i never met him!” replied the man “Why are you moaning then?” asked the passer-by coursously. “He was my wife’s first husband!”

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