African All Star Issue

EDITION

ISSUE 24, July 2011 www.comelime.com in association with

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INTERVIEW

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CONTENTS

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JULY 2011 28 Cover Story Jill Scott 04 World Events Essence Music Festival 05 Events DMC DJ Championships 08 Food/Drink African cuisine

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13 Fashion/Beauty Me FiRi Ghana 16 Theatre Professor Wole Soyinka 20 Music El Crisis & Thunder 30 Clubs Maggies

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31 Screen Summer Movies 36 Gallery South African Photography at the V&A 37 Community Save the Africa Centre 42 Comedy Kat Francois 44 Breaktime Get your jokes on EDITION

ISSUE 24, July 2011 www.comelime.com

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Word from the Editor Welcome to Lime’s second annual African All Stars issue – some of the biggest movers and shakers from the Motherland are featured within.

From African inspired cuisine and

fashion designers influenced by their native country to performers who are proudly waving their flags, this magazine celebrates all things Africa.

So readers, where in London gives you a taste of Africa?

Sophia A Jackson xx

editor@gotmedialive.co.uk

in association with

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Team Lime

Editor Sophia A Jackson editor@gotmedialive.co.uk Designer Mialisa Fenty

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Published By Got Media Limited

Contributors Cassam Looch Semper Azeez-Harris Tricia Wombell Alicia Adejobi Micallar Walker Nicke Adebowale Jennifer Rock

Lee Jasper Sarah Nicholas Paul Aaaron Vernia Mengot Havana Wellings-Longmore Cecillia Makonyola Gavin Adams Shari Bollers Advertising and sales Dean Serieux dean@gotmedialive.co.uk Events listings info@comelime.com

Website Basil Lumsden CONNECT WITH LIME www.comelime.com 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 2011

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WORLD EVENTS

– 03 Jul Essence Music Festival 2011 presented

by Coca Cola – New Orleans Essence Music Festival is an annual music festival celebrating contemporary African American music and culture. It is the largest event celebrating African American culture and music in the United States.

It has been held in New Orleans, Louisiana every year since 1995 except for 2006, where it was held in Houston, Texas due to Hurricane Katrina. Essence Music Festival, known

locally as Essence Fest, is sponsored by Essence, a magazine aimed primarily towards AfricanAmerican women.

Line-up includes: Jill Scott; Chaka Khan; Jennifer Hudson; Boyz II Men; Charlie Wilson; Fantasia; Trey Songz; Kanye West, Usher, Mary J. Blige and New Edition.

Lime caught up with Jill Scott last month and asked how she was preparing for the Essence Music Festival.

She said: “I have a great band and I’m creating the vision for what I want to see first. It’s coming but it’s a slow process. Sometimes it’s quick and it happens in my sleep.

Info: www. essencemusicfestival.com

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-23 Jul Reggae Sumfest

The greatest reggae show on earth includes a beach party, and the following acts: Vybz Kartel, Mavada, Beenie Man, Assassin, R Kelly, Beres Hammond, Tanya Stephens, Gyptian, Nicki Minaj, Wayne Wonder and more.

Info: Montego Bay, Jamaica | www. reggaesumfest.com

NEWS

Nigerian Idol presenter lands role in Nigerian drama Tinsel Nigerian Idol presenter Anis Halloway has landed a role in Nigerian drama, Tinsel. The programme is produced by Pan African broadcaster M-NET Africa and is shot in Nigeria. It’s viewed in over 40 African countries. Anis will play the character Lionel, a screenwriter in his late 30s and speaks with a slight English accent.

Anis told Lime: “Acting

is something I’ve always wanted to do. Being believable has always been a buzz for me and I plan to be the best of the best. Tinsel is a great stepping stone and it’s a great production to be in. I’m privileged to have got a major role. Look out Hollywood ‘cause

NEWS

Unique London walking tours led by homeless guides go global Unseen Tours: London’s Street Voices, unique walks led by homeless guides, are to be rolled out internationally.

Beginning with summer 2011 launches in Poland and Melbourne, other interested groups will be taking on the challenge in cities worldwide, including Chicago, Toronto, Dublin and Belfast. Led by homeless guides with their own distinctive styles and life histories, each 4 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Unseen Tour has its own personality, uncovering a city’s hidden history and present-day reality from their perspectives.

On July 1, 2011, the new Mayfair Unseen Tour will launch and is led by a formerly homeless guide with keen insights into the juxtaposition of crime and decadence in one of London’s most affluent areas, which is also home to the homeless.

Info: www.unseentours. org.uk

Nollywood knows already what’s up. I’ll say no more”. We wish you the best of luck Mr Halloway.

Info: www.mnetafrica. com

The Gambia: New Stationery Pack Now Available From Kids Corner for Tebbs Second Chances Support a Child’s Education Kids Corner in conjunction with Tebbs Second Chances have put together a stationery pack which will provide a child with all the essentials that they need to attend school. These packs provide the child with enough stationery to last them a year, and will enable them to attend classes. Many children are unable to attend school, simply because they do not have the equipment required. Each pack includes 3 pens, 3 pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser, pack of colouring pencils, ruler and 3 exercise books. Each pack purchased will be made up and delivered to Tebbs. The wonderful people at Tebbs will then ensure that your donation will be delivered personally to the children.

We are also able to provide this pack to other charitable organisations, please contact us for more details. The latest drive is to collect stationery for Kanifing School in The Gambia.

Info: www.tebbssc.com

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

NEWS

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Last month Sir Richard Branson hosted an 80s extravaganza at The Roof Gardens to Celebrities including Alexandra Burke join Sir Richard celebrate 30 years as Branson and family to celebrate 30 years of The Roof one of the top clubs Gardens in Kensington and venues in London. views across London. a variety of live music and Celebrities including an amazing DJ set from Info: The Roof Gardens, Alexandra Burke, Princess 80s legend Boy George.

6th Floor, The Roof Beatrice, Blue and Sam and Guests also enjoyed a roller Gardens, 99 Kensington Holly Branson and friends disco and to round off High Street, W8 5SA | were treated to a fun the evening, a spectacular www.roofgardens.virgin. packed evening including fireworks display with com

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Jul Leaders of the Old

Skool Every scene has its originators and Spoken Word is no different. New and emerging artists sprout from a genre which some believe to be just a few years old but look beneath the surface, and you’ll find an array of poets, lyricists, spoken word artists and story-tellers who set the scene and paved the way for generations to come meet the Leaders of the Old Skool, eight of the UK’s pioneering artists who’ve carved and moulded a sub-culture of entertainment that speaks to generations. Host: Kat Francois and guests

Zena Edwards Travelling Light

-Best Kept Secret [AmeN Noir, OneNess, ShaKaRa, TuggStar], Beyonder | David J the Pugilist | Inua Ellams | shortMAN | Tshaka Campbell & Zena Edwards.

Info: 6:30pm | Plan B, 418 Brixton Road, LONDON SW9 7AY | www.onitpr. co.uk

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Jul London Literature Festival: Colin Grant

Corinthia Hotel London opens its doors

and Linton Kwesi Johnson – Trench Town Rock Cultural historian Colin Grant and poet, musician and activist Linton Kwesi Johnson discuss one of the world’s most influential groups, The Wailers.

Grant’s book, I & I - The Natural Mystics – Marley, Tosh and Wailer, the first group biography of The Wailers, charts their journey from Trench Town,

EVENTS

09

Jul The Ritzy + OneTaste presents: 100 Acts In 1 Day - Charity Festival

In honour of The Ritzy centenary, and just because we always fancy a challenge, we are going to break a bit of a world record and present to you 100 performances of live music, comedy, spoken word and dance all in one day and all in one venue.

Info: www.picturehouses. co.uk/cinema/Ritzy_ Picturehouse

The Northall at Corinthia Hotel London

Corinthia’s new flagship is a landmark property and joins the ranks of London’s finest five-star luxury hotels. Combining traditional grandeur with modern freshness, the luxuriously redesigned Victorian destination is ideally located in the heart of London, a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions.

“The project marks the culmination of an exciting journey,” says general manager Matthew Dixon. “Corinthia Hotel London is an intricately restored grand hotel with a 21st century approach.

Its modern elegance is defined by a

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Kingston’s ghetto, to worldwide acclaim. Grant explores the politics and ideologies that provoked their spirit, set in the context of Jamaica’s rich cultural and social history.

He concludes with a search for the elusive surviving member, Bunny Wailer.

The event includes rare film footage and music.

Info: 7.45pm | Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX

blend of classic Victorian architecture with outstanding craftsmanship and contemporary art, mirroring the energy, style and history of the area. Guests are offered all the modern luxuries whilst enjoying an authentic experience in a hotel and location with heritage.”

Info: www.corinthia.com/London LIME MAGAZINE 2011

NEWS

NEWS

Sir Richard Branson and friends party at The Roof Gardens to celebrate 30 years on top in London

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EVENTS

27 years of DMC Dis the MC

world renowned DJ competition that has seen some of the most talented craziest DJs bless audiences with their amazing turntable craft.

In its 27th year now, Sally McClintock is the niece of the founder Tony Prince and has helped to take this family venture to huge global status. With the final taking place on July 14th, Sally gave Lime a little inside information on the new format for DMC: hear the drummer get wicked!

Give those who have been living in Outer Mongolia the history on DMC and how it got started?

DMC is the greatest DJ competition on planet earth and it was founded in 1983. The mixing competition started in 1985 and has grown into a truly worldwide competition, with DMC events happening in over 30 countries every year.

I know you are part of the family history of DMC, how did you get involved and why?

Tony Prince the founder of DMC is my uncle. I’ve grown up with DMC since I was three years old. As a teenager I’d been to many DMC events as we were the founders of Mix-mag too, so I have attended Mix-mag parties since the age of 16, but house music

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DMC’s Sally McClintock talks about why DMC still has so much more to give.

Championship. The beauty with the Online Championships is DJs can enter from anywhere in the world and use any piece of equipment they like - something you cannot do in the live events, if you haven’t got a DMC agent in your country. All they have to do is upload a two minute video.

And what can DJs win?

The winner of the Online DJ championship wins $3000, prizes from all the sponsors and a paid trip to London to compete in the final and/or showcase at the DMC World Finals in October at The Indig02, London.

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

wasn’t my thing, hip hop was.

What are the ingredients that make this such a longstanding and popular event?

The DJs and the art is a main ingredient. As long as the DJs enter this event, the more years we remain the No 1 DJ competition.

Who has been the best champion you have seen and why?

That’s such a difficult question. I love my music and I love the DMC battles,

so I have lots of favourite DJs for different reasons. I have to say my favourite DJs have been Craze, C2C, Mr Thing and most recently DJ Netik. In 2006 after a four year break, DJ Netik came back and the impact he made is unforgettable.

What’s the deal with DMC this time around because I know a lot has changed?

This is a big year for DMC, firstly we are proud to have Rane and Serato on board as our main sponsors for the Championships. 2011 is the first year we have allowed DVS (Digital Vinyl Systems) into the six minute event. We also launched this year the DMC Online DJ

Are the plans to add more to the DMC brand?

We are in the stages of launching DMC World Radio and an online magazine to accompany it. It’s going to be great.

Lastly what advice would you give to up and coming DJs? I would advise up and coming DJs to practice as much as they can. If you are serious about becoming a DJ or a champion, stick at it.

Put yourself into the competitions, gain the experience. It’s really valuable and have confidence in yourself.

Info: The 2011 UK DJ Final and Battle For UK Supremacy takes place at the Scala on 14th July with the winners going head to head with the best in the world at the World DJ Championships on October 6th and 7th at Indig02. www. dmcworld.com

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Jul UK DJ Final and Battle for UK Supremacy 2011 This is a milestone year, not just for the competition, but yet again the DMC World DJ Championships boundary pushing will signal change in the wider world of technology. In its 27th successful year, DMC has brought together the globes brightest DJ talents, vetted by a series of grueling heats from London to Tokyo to Brazil. This year, not only are DMC continuing to host one of the most entertaining and jaw dropping shows you will ever witness but they have set the bar even higher.

Info: Scala www. dmcworld.com

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-17 Jul Ardhanginni - Indian Wedding, Destination and Lifestyle Show

experience first-hand this authentic ‘Indian’ness at its high end best as The Indian Wedding, Destination and Lifestyle Show (Ardhanginni) – makes its grand debut.

Info: Olympia 2, Kensington Square Gardens, London | www. ardhanginni.com

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-24 Jul Hyper Japan Hyper Japan is all about cuisine, culture and cool: everything that’s creative, cute and crazy about contemporary Japan.

Event highlights include Sushi Awards; Nintendo Unleashed; Japan Media

Arts Festival and Summer Sake cocktails.

Info: Olympia Two, London | www.eat-japan. com

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-31 Jul WOMAD – The World’s Festival Six out of seven isn’t

bad. When it comes to representing the music of the entire planet, no festival can keep up with WOMAD. This is proved by the latest wave of artists confirmed for its Charlton Park bash later this summer – these performers hail from no fewer than six out of the seven continents.

Info: Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9DG | www.womad. org

EVENTS

Heritage is a voluntary organisation for young people based in Tower Hamlets. The founders of Heritage are parents who formed the group because they were concerned with the lack of facilities and opportunities available within this borough for children and young people. The aim of the group is to encourage and to promote social inclusion, equal opportu-

nities, prevent anti social behaviour, promote social relationships within the community and the group, by “bringing family values back to the community” through social activities, arts and dance. Heritage came first in its category at the Notting Hill Carnival out of 27 other bands which is a great achievement. In the run up to their main event, Notting Hill Carnival the young people learn about different aspects of carnival. Any contributions/donations or sponsorship would be most welcomed.

Info: dingus@simon35.freeserve.co.uk

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til 24 Aug Redbridge Dance Festival The Redbridge Dance Festival is an exciting mix of projects and showcases that you can take part in or just enjoy! This festival is energetic and colourful, celebrating the richness and diversity of Redbridge borough and brings an exciting selection of performances. The festival gives different local community groups the chance to showcase their work in a professional context. Try something new, join in with family, friends and colleagues and get dancing.

Info: www.redbridge.gov. uk/dance

The I’mPOSSIBLE. conversation: revealing the truth about the experience of British women of colour in the 21st century I’mPOSSIBLE. created history on Wednesday June 15, 2011 when they created a platform for British women I’mPossible [image credit Simon Frederick] of colour experiences to be heard through their event; the I’mPOSSIBLE. room and beyond is where the passion conversation. Tameka Empson, Angela of I’mPOSSIBLE lies. I’mPOSSIBLE. is Ferreira, Bonnie Greer OBE, Angie a social enterprise whose primary aim LeMar, Precious Williams and Charlene is to celebrate, highlight, and promote White gave their pearls of wisdom, the achievements of women of colour in funny recollections and experiences Britain. Bonnie Greer OBE said: “This was to a packed, engaged audience from a very powerful event. Organisations like all walks of life. Simone Bresi-Ando, I’mPOSSIBLE. and events like this are the I’mPOSSIBLE. founder commented: “To future for women of colour in Britain.” see my idea blossom into a force for good Info: www.i-am-possible.com which positively affects everyone in that

Think of an Indian wedding and the gorgeous chaos of its colours, textures, aromas and flavours comes to mind.

The UK public will now get the chance to Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial.

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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NEWS

NEWS

Heritage Social Arts and Dance Group: Bringing family back to the community

FOOD AND DRINK

Forof the love FOOD Athat has influenced frica is a continent

everything from fashion, music and dance, and food is another area the continent keeps on giving to. We wanted to find out what’s so special about South African cuisine.

What is it about the food at bbar that is so special and different?

Our food is made with fresh ingredients, nothing is made with frozen produce and we are careful about where we source our food from. I created a standard of discipline; I make sure I keep checking on the team to make sure that everyone maintains their standard of cooking.

What was the inspiration behind the creation of the menu?

The inspiration is based on the South African concept.

We introduced a new dish which is based on exploring the flavours and the tastes from different ingredients that are

combined together.

Exactly what is the South African Concept?

South Africa has become popular with all the other different cultures that have gone to South Africa.

There are lots of different influences from around the world, for example from Portugal you have Peri Peri, from India you have the curry flavours and spices, and from South Africa itself it is the quality of the game produce. There are lots of other influences from places like Germany, so all of this combines to create a very unique taste.

What made you want to become a chef, and what is it you try to convey through your cooking?

For me it’s like being a painter, having the ability to express myself and be creative with my dishes on a daily basis.

What can patrons expect out of an

“The food spoke for itself, with the menu showing the diversity of the many influences within South African culture”.

REVIEW

Lime restaurant review: bbar and Restaurant Words: Sarah Nicholas Lime rating: It appears that African cuisine is the new up and coming cuisine for those looking to stay on trend this season, with African inspired restaurants

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popping up around London. For those of us who haven’t already experienced a lifetime of home cooked African food, and would not mind experiencing what other African countries have to offer, a trip to bbar and Restaurant in Victoria is a good way to spend an evening, whether it be for a quick after work bite or a pre-theatre

WORDS: Sarah Nicholas

experience at bbar?

From my side patrons can always expect an incredible meal with lots of flavours out of the South African concept. Apart from that the front of house team will make sure there is a nice atmosphere, and we intend to introduce things like catch of the day on a daily basis, which will be freshly caught fish from Kent which will change everyday.

What or who are the greatest exports from the African continent? dinner, you won’t be left disappointed. This South African restaurant also combines influences from Germany, Portugal and India, accompanied with fresh produce and a lively atmosphere. Bbar is subtly decorated to show its basis in South African culture, maybe a little too subtle for some but still tasteful. The service was exceptional with the manager and staff making sure everything was alright, however on a whole the food spoke for itself, with the menu showing the diversity of the many influences within South African culture making for a very tasty and rewarding experience.

For me it was like being a painter, having the ability to express myself and be creative with my dishes on a daily basis.

At the moment something that relates to me is the game that South Africa produces is of the highest quality and is something that really impresses me.

My guest had the grilled steak with chips and salad and I tried the duck with rice and mango chutney.

It’s worth checking with bbar and Restaurant in advance to see if they are holding any special entertainment. Thursdays are a good day to visit if you enjoy live jazz, and their cocktails will have you singing along with the band in no time.

Info: bbar and Restaurant, 43 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PP | www.bbarlondon. com | www.twitter.com/ bbartweet

up box or take a spin around the funfair.

Info: Clapham Common | www.thebigfeastival. co.uk

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The Big Festival is a sensational new first class extravaganza of food and music in aid of The Prince’s Trust and The Jamie Oliver Foundation. The music line-up includes Soul II Soul, Roots Manuva, Norman Jay, Danny Rampling and many more. There will be eating, drinking and dancing, a celebrity cook-off, and you can also join a martinimaking session, dig a herb garden, raid the dressing-

til 05 Jul Masterpiece London 2011 Le Caprice, one of the most iconic London restaurants famed for its classic British, European and American favourites, is opening its doors for one week only at this year’s Masterpiece London. Serving an all-day dining menu, Le Caprice is offering a one-off opportunity to enjoy the quality and excellence of its cuisine whilst appreciating the best of the best from over 150 dealers from around the world at Masterpiece London.

Info: www.masterpiecefair. com

Lime restaurant review: Mosob Lime rating: Words: Ronke Lawal In Mosob I have found an oasis of calm and peace that it’s easy to forget that you have your own home to go to. Upon entering this dimly lit cove, I was welcomed with a charming smile and a genuine hello. My friend and I shared the Massawa set platter consisting of three starters and four mains served with Injera (a roti-style flat bread).

Spinach rolls, Timtimo rolls and Felafel were served as our starters with two dips. I particularly enjoyed the Spinach Rolls garnished with olive oil and chilli. Our mains consisted of Alicha Ahmelti (spiced vegetable mix), Timtimo (lentils stew), Zigni (lamb stew) and Derho Quluwa (sauteed chicken); we also requested a small sample of Zilzil Quluwa (grilled marinated beef) to accompany our platter. Sharing this with a great friend was a genuine pleasure. The cosy seating, authentic African atmosphere and original Eritrean decor provided the perfect backdrop for our meal. Mosob is the name giving to the ‘sharing baskets’ used to serve meals and the restaurant truly reflected this.

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Jul – 28 Aug Pop Up At The Palace - an English Summer ‘Pop Up’ Restaurant Serving Lunch and Afternoon Tea in July and August at The Banqueting House In London’s Whitehall The dramatic Banqueting House which was completed in 1622 astounded the then London society and this summer a new ‘pop up’ restaurant offering lunch and afternoon teas by Party

Ingredients will dazzle Londoners and visitors to the capital. The unique Pop Up afternoon teas will showcase the finest food from around Britain and wines from England served against a matchless backdrop in a great central London location.

Info: www. partyingredients.co.uk | www.hrp.org.uk/ BanquetingHouse

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FOOD AND DRINK

-3 Jul Jamie Oliver presents The Big Festival

– 31 Jul Foodies Festivals 2011 – London Foodies Festival, Britain’s largest food and drink festival, takes place across the UK this summer, showcasing and celebrating the finest food, drink and culinary talent in five exclusive and beautiful locations.

Info: Battersea Park, London | www. foodiesfestival.com

I had the opportunity to meet with Suli, the co-owner of this one hundred per cent family owned business who shared the humble and inspirational story of this quaint eatery of seven years. If you’re seeking a different type of cuisine to the typical mainstream eateries on so many of London’s high streets this is a place for you-perfect for private family functions to romantic dinners. I am glad I could not find fault with this place, my only complaint is there is not a Mosob closer to my home.

This is a restaurant that I shall recommend to many friends and family members-this is a restaurant I recommend to you.

Info: Mosob, 339 Harrow Road, London W9 3RB | www. mosob.com

REVIEW

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Eclectic FOOD

FOOD AND DRINK

Words: Jennifer Rock

Alice Aggrey Orleans, Eclectic Food [image FiZZ Media]

Did you grow up around food and where did your interest stem from?

My mum taught me everything I know about food, by aged 12 I knew how to make meringue’s and French rolls. I had good training from my mum.

Where did you train?

When I left school I did my basic training at Westminster College, one of the colleges Jamie Oliver attended. I did a bakery course, then specialised in patisserie. I went to Switzerland to train for a year then worked at the Dorchester.

Do head chefs really yell at you that much?

When I was training in the late 80s those were times when chef’s used to hit.

I’ve been yelled at and had things thrown at

me. I have friends that have been punched. But now it is a lot better since a documentary blew the whistle on that.

Have you ever put together a dish and been surprised by the results?

Yes, a fusion dish for Charles Thompson (Screen Nation) I was doing a canapé party and kept it within the African theme.

I came up with a canapé base using plantain and it turned out really well. I called it plantain bread.

What is your signature dish?

My sister says I make a pretty mean cheesecake.

Tell us about Eclectic food.

That started when I was

Accomplished chef Alice AggreyOrleans can stand the heat and deserves her place in the kitchen. A seasoned traveller, Alice’s catering company Eclectic Food was born through her love of all foods.

freelancing for other caterers and being booked to do private jobs. I thought if I’m doing this I should set up a company properly.

What is the meaning behind the name?

People often assume I only do Caribbean food. You train mainly in European and French style cuisine but I am interested in all types of cuisines. I didn’t want to be put into a box of only doing ‘black’ foods.

What was your inspiration for wanting to branch out?

Whilst working in hotels, I noticed that a lot of men were getting promoted over women. I thought I either stay at this one position for years or do something for me. I also wanted to be more creative.

Who does your company comprise of?

It’s all me, if it’s a small job I can do it on my own.

If it’s a big job, I have a reliable team of freelance chefs and waiting staff.

Cherry Frangipan tart with cream

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Mini raspberry chocolate torte

You also specialise in pastry, people might wonder how you stand to be around such temptation?

If someone worked in a chocolate factory the last thing they would want to eat is chocolate. If you see it and are surrounded by it everyday, believe me you won’t want to eat it.

Working with food has it made you a healthy eater?

Yes I am super healthy, I do lots of juicing, I am meat and dairy free. I detox and I’m getting into raw food.

You have travelled extensively can you describe any cultural differences or similarities in foods?

In Thailand, they use coconut and lemongrass; the flavours are fresh and light. In Tanzania they

People often assume I only do Caribbean food.

You train mainly in European and French style cuisine but I am interested in all types of cuisines.

I didn’t want to be put into a box of only doing ‘black’ foods. have vegetables with every meal; you don’t get that in Ghanaian cooking as a side dish.

You have an impressive client portfolio, what is the pressure like to stay on top?

There is pressure because I want everything to be perfect. I know I need

to stay healthy. The adrenaline is just like ‘before service’ I go into a zone, it’s exciting.

What are you main-stay ingredients, you cannot do without?

Plantain – I’m addicted.

Also garlic, I always use it in my marinade, it is good for you so I’m always looking at the health aspect. Ginger is warming and good for your circulation.

What and where are your favourite restaurants?

Nobu is a good Japanese restaurant in Mayfair. I went to a nice Ethiopian restaurant in Dar es Salem called Addis in Dar and that was the first time I’d had Ethiopian food.

Do you cook for yourself at home?

No, a lot of people think that chefs eat gourmet meals every night. When I’m in the mood to cook you can’t stop me I’ll make about 7 to 8 different dishes or I cook in bulk.

Roasted sweet potato with chilli and chives

What does cooking mean to you?

I think it’s the passion and it is a pleasure. I also see the health issue it’s not just about filling a gap I think of the nutritional aspect.

FOOD AND DRINK

Kelewele (Spicy fried plantain) and Chicken Chinchinga

Do you depend on recipes or know-how?

If I’m making a dessert I pretty much stick to the recipe. With savoury stuff you just know when it tastes right or when you have the right quantities.

What is the best piece of advice you could give to a novice cook?

Experiment don’t be afraid to, there is no hard or fast rule. Have fun with it because you never know what you are going to turn out.

What is your favourite cultural dish?

Ghanaian food – what we call plantain and bean stew, Red-Red you can have it with fish. My second would be a Thai fish curry and my favourite dessert is tiramisu.

Where in London reminds you of Africa/ Ghana?

A gastro-pub in south Norwood called the Gold Coast, when I go there I feel like they have just transported me back to Ghana.

Info: www.eclecticfood. com LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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REVIEW

REVIEW

Restaurant review: Sitaaray Words: Gavin Adams Lime rating: Quaint and quirky Bollywood inspired restaurant, Sitaaray, was the unassuming setting of a food showdown to end all showdowns. This is an Indian restaurant with a culinary twist, breaking away from the conventional Indian dining experience “How hot is your Vindaloo?”

This eatery specialises in grills rather than curries. We started off with a shy portion of poppadum’s with a range of sauces. We chose the sharing platter and the first dish was the Pepper Shikampuri which is Pan fried ground lamb kabab stuffed with mint and peppers, Pudina Fish which are char grilled fish tikkas in mint and green chillies. These sumptuous servings were followed by eight more mouth-watering, belly busting dishes which we could have repeated all night at no extra cost until closing. Let me tell you, we were stuffed. Then our waiter said “Are you ready for your main course?” Panic gripped us both, the food was too much and on rolled the chicken Tikka Massala, Pulao rice assorted breads and lentils oh and did I forget to tell you about the giant ‘in the gym, eight times a week’spicy prawns? Greed alone spurred us forward as our mouths answered yes to dessert but who could resist a honey and ginger ice cream or mango sorbet? With all of this for only £22.95 - this is exceptionally great value especially in these cashless times: good food, great price and the best of times.

Info: .Sitaaray, 167 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PG www. sitaaray.com Lime iPhone App review: London on a plate iPhone app Words: Sarah Nicholas Lime rating: The newest iphone app London on a Plate is definitely an app worthy to be one of Apple’s top 20 noteworthy new releases. We all know that the most trustworthy advice you can receive about the best places to go come from word of mouth, and this is what you have, all combined on an iphone app.

Created by author and journalist Charmain Ponnuthurai and with contributions from the likes of Kate Moss and Jasmine Guinness, this app lists everything from the best places for breakfast, lunch and dinner down to recommendations of how to host the best diner party and even what to wear to it. This app definitely shows you how to enjoy London to the fullest.

Info: www.onaplateapp.com

12 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Lime cookery challenge: African Fusion Cooking by Nina Gaskell Words: Nicke Adebowale Lime rating:

“I tried the plantain moussaka – determined to make one of the more African dishes.”

When I saw the words ‘African’ and ‘cooking’, I saw myself adding a whole variety of exotic, spicy dishes to my repertoire. What I found in the book initially left me slightly disappointed.

However when I read Nina’s introduction everything became clearer, my expectations weren’t met because I’d failed to take note of the word ‘fusion’. It quickly becomes clear that this book’s mission seems to be to try to get people cooking complete meals with a new twist. Nina also seems to be trying to provide a solution to families who money and time is tight. One of the first things she does is pass on a top tip on how to blanch then freeze fresh vegetables to avoid waste.

She also suggests using ingredients like tinned fruit and vegetables, packet seasoning – things that can be bought and stored for weeks and months if necessary. The main course recipe I tried was the plantain moussaka – one of the more African dishes. I followed one of Nina’s top tips and prepared all the individual ingredients before I started cooking which makes for a calmer kitchen.

I’d never cooked plantain before and this is a foolproof way to start. The emphasis is on the mince sauce

which was lovely, (I added a few fresh chillies) the ginger working well with the other ingredients. I upped the cooking time a touch as I was anxious that I hadn’t sliced my plantain thinly enough.

When I finally pulled it from the oven it looked nice with lots of bubbly cheese and I was relieved when it passed the taste test. For dessert I tried the pineapple flan. Again I measured everything out first and tipped and mixed as instructed. At first things didn’t seem to be going well. The smooth paste Nina talked about was more like a thick cement mixture. I decided not to panic and carried on whisking, and slowly everything began to combine until finally a paste was born. The end result was very nice indeed; in fact I’d go so far as to say lovely. Overall African Fusion Cooking contains handy hints but it would perhaps be of more use to a student who was determined to avoid the baked beans and pot noodles cliché, get their five a day and stick to a budget.

Info: www. africanfusioncooking.com

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

REVIEW

FOOD AND DRINK

“These sumptuous servings were followed by eight more mouth-watering, belly busting dishes which we could have repeated all night at no extra”.

NEWS

From elaborately designed evening wear to everyday casual wear pieces; this creative fusion produces a line of elegant yet wearable designs; that bring Afrikan style into modern apparel. The designs aspire to accentuate the beauty of the female form, whilst adding versatility in style with dresses like Nubia, Venus and Stone Love from the multi-wear collection which can be worn in two to- 18 different ways. Pebbles Wearable taps into earthy inner beauty, creating quirky accessories such as regal head dresses, bejewelled neck pieces and chic hand bags that can be worn individually or used to compliment designs from the range.

Info: www.pebbleswearable.com

01

Jul Learn how to do your makeup with Yana Cosmetics Award-winning Yana Johnson MBE, gives you 10 years experience of showing you what to use, how to use it and get the best look for your skin colour and type.

Info: Manor House Library, 34 Old Road, London SE13 5SY | www. yanacosmetics.com

02

-09 Jul We Make London summer pop-up boutique Eight days of shopping of gorgeous handmade products from 40 plus of the UK’s most talented designers including: Lovely Gorgeous Things; Urban Chintz, Nyoki and Heart Zeena.

Info: 10am- late daily | Oak Studio, 8 Perrins Court, Hampstead, London NW3 1QS |

10

Jul Naturally Nubian’s

Workshops Presents Your Hair and Scalp Questions Answered with Noon Etienne (Qualified Trichologist) Presentation followed by Q & A on the causes of hair loss, hair and scalp problems amongst AfricanCaribbean’s with Noon Etienne. Noon Etienne is a qualified Trichologist and a specialist in scalp and hair care. She deals with hair loss, alopecia, scaly scalp and dry hair problems. Noon is also a Cosmetologist (Beautician and Hair Designer) with over 20 years experience working with all types of hair. Originally from New York City, Noon is now based in London, from where she has built an international client base across the U.K., USA, Africa and the Middle East.

Info: 2-6pm | Noon Etienne Salon, 5 Bloomsbury Street, WC1B 3BQ | www.naturallynubian01. blogspot.com

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

Jul Afrocenchix New Product Launch and first birthday Afrocenchix will be one year old on July 22nd and we will be celebrating with a FREE London event.

We will also be launching our new product range, Moi Exotic’s, giving you the opportunity to be the first to smell, try and buy. Join us for beauty presentations, free buffet, varied entertainment and cake.

Info: 7-9.30pm | Slug and Lettuce, 1 Islington Green, London N1 2XH www.afrocenchix.com/ news | www.twitter.com/ Afrocenchix

23

Jul Calabash Hub presents Kitchen Treasures from Natures Pleasures Come and join us in a 1 day workshop where you will be able to formulate your own skin care and beauty treatments, and hair care

remedies using organic and natural ingredients that are healthy, clean and pure without the harsh chemicals, toxins and preservatives.

Info: 11.30am – 4pm |Cottons Rhum Shack, 70 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QP | www. thecalabashhub.com/blog

23

FASHION/BEAUTY

22

Pebbles Wearable Art launches new website

Jul Natural Curls London Night Out What are we celebrating?

Ourselves! Time to celebrate what we have learnt and our achievements by showcasing our crowning glory. Join Natural Curls Girls and Swirls (NCG&S) for our second night out and be embraced and inspired by your fellow naturals. This event is not strictly for naturals. All are Welcome.

Info: | 6.30-9.30pm | Grace bar, 42-44 Great Windmill Street, London |enquiries@ azuriboudoir.co.uk

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

13

FASHION/BEAUTY

Spreading the LOVE Hyoung people

earing stories of

finding new ways to help their communities and making their mark in the world is always an inspiration. Whether you need motivation to excel within your own individual goals

or whether its doing that little bit extra to contribute to your community. There are many ways that people can help their communities and it does not just end at the end of your street.

Arnold Sarfo-Kantanka is someone who took that same motivation and used it to spread the love worldwide. Next month they launch their new clothing line Me Dor Ghana.

What is the concept behind Me FiRi Ghana?

It’s really about connecting the world with Ghana. I

14 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Arnold Sarfo-Kantanka talks to Lime about his clothing line and organisation Me FiRi Ghana and the great things they are doing.

Words: Sarah Nicholas

had a conversation with myself about how I can convey my culture with others in a funky fresh way. So I started this clothing line, at first I was wearing my t-shirts around university and was getting such a reception from people that I realised that it was really connecting with people. Since starting the clothing line we realised that people really love Ghana, whether they’re from Ghana or not. But the question was how are they informed about it?

So through our blog we started having information flowing through it.

There’s the clothing line, the blog and also a way for people to give back to Ghana. Last year we went back to Ghana to work with young people.

What motivated you to start your organisation?

I was thinking about how can I put across my culture. The President of Ghana once said “The independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it contributes to the African continent.” My cousin and I came together to create something because we both could see the vision.

Why did you feel that an organisation like Me FiRi Ghana needed to be started?

In 2008 I was on a placement in Africa and I met a guy who asked me for money, I got talking to him and he kept saying that he knew that I had money because of the way I was dressed. I was trying to tell him that England was not easy, but he said to me that I paid to fly from

FASHION/BEAUTY

England to Ghana, for him to be able to do that he would have to work a lifetime. That conversation stayed with me.

What is your aim with the company, what are you trying to achieve?

Me FiRi Ghana is a brand to create a unified African community through unity and culture. Already people from Sierra Leone and Kenya want to get on board.

How does it operate as a voluntary scheme and what has your reception been like?

We have had people from Germany, America and Canada, showing interest and it’s all been done through social media. Once you have a clear message and a desire to do it people will embrace it.

What is the WAM campaign?

WAM stands for What About Me and our tag line is ‘What About Me, It’s Not About Me’. If you’re going to Ghana for Christmas come with us on our development programme.

We are looking for people to do things like skydiving to raise money. When we went it was emotional, we got 30 children into one of the top cinemas in Ghana to watch a film, and got them to do experiences such as visit Accra Mall.

They went on Safari and one child kept saying thank

Me FiRi Ghana were invited to interview Sir Richard Branson for MTV Africa

So far it is an annual campaign but Me FiRi Ghana’s Arnold Sarfoit is growing, Kantanka with business partner we are going to Nana Adu-Sarfo Europe to try and you sir, if you saw the inspire people that amount of confidence they everyone can do this. came away with, it was amazing.

You interviewed Sir Richard Branson last Where do you see the month, what was that organisation heading to like? in the future?

It was in collaboration with WAM is going to grow MTV Africa, an email was across Africa and impact sent around asking if you youths across Africa and had a passion for Africa in our community here. and could ask a famous person any question what Since starting would it be. Well I didn’t the clothing even answer the question, line we realised I just sent over my profile, was then invited for an that people interview and afterwards really love they told me that I was Ghana, whether going to interview Richard Branson. It was really they’re from conversational, he was Ghana or not such a cool guy, and getting leadership advice from him was amazing.

Who or what is an inspiration to you?

God, what he has done for me, if you talk about humility and leadership he has all the answers.

My parents, I get inspired everyday from people I meet, it could be anyone, someone I’ve just met or even my four-year- old godson.

Who are the hottest people from Africa that everyone’s talking about?

Asamoah Gyan, the player for Sunderland and he has also won a Ghana music award.

If we were visiting Ghana; where would you take us to eat, dance and be entertained?

Papaya on Spintex Road and Citizens Kofi to dance and be entertained.

Where in London reminds you of Ghana Africa?

Gold Coast Restaurant, that’s where I always go to get my food, it brings back memories.

Team Me FiRi Ghana

Info: www.mefirighana. com | www.twitter.com/ me_firi_ghana | Me Firi Ghana means I am from Ghana. | Me Dor Ghana means I love Ghana.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

15

THEATRE

In association with

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

02 Takeaway L to R - Gabby Wong as Angela, Marcus Ellard as Reese, Stephen Hoo as Eddie, Gloria Onitiri as Shelia and Natasha Jayetileke as Dillon. [image credit Robert Day]

REVIEW

Lime theatre review: Takeaway, Theatre Royal Stratford East Lime rating: Words: Uchenna Izundu Theatre Royal Stratford East has produced fun and feisty black British musicals that transferred to the West End with The Big Life, and The Harder They Come. Both of these I saw four times and brought friends with me on each occasion. The acting was strong, the songs jiving enough to buss a move to, and the stories had a magic touch that I just had to spread the word.

So, there is space for a musical focusing on the British Chinese experience, which is ignored or side-lined in the mainstream.

Takeaway attempts to do this through the story of Eddie (Stephen Hoo) whose dilemma is running his father’s takeaway shop or chasing his Chinese Tom Jones X factor dream. It’s a recognizable thread of the immigrant experience – how parents hope their children will improve on what they have established, particularly through education. What the writers and creative cast appear to do is to explode every pervasive stereotype and myth about a British Chinese boy, whip it up in awkward situations, and then throw it right back in the audience’s face. So Eddie is over-sexualized with two girls on the go, un-academic because at 21 he’s still trying to pass his A-levels, and loud because he’s always telling the audience about what he’s thinking. Then we learn later that Eddie is bisexual.

However, despite this relationship with the audience, Eddie is not charming; he is manipulative, whiny, and needy and it’s difficult to empathize with his problems.

Moreover, Hoo is not the strongest singer and this is emphasized against the supporting cast, particularly Gloria 16 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Onitiri. The ethnically diverse chorus are humorous in supporting him. Shelley Williams who plays the guardian angel, post woman and other cameos, delivers some catty dialogue that outshine the rest of the cast. That’s not to say there aren’t funny one liners such as Eddie’s quip that looking at the Chinese population of over 1 billion it’s clear the Chinese love sex which is why the government had to introduce the one child policy.

However, with double entendres and high spurts of energy, Takeaway veers wildly between pantomime and farce. If you are conservative in nature then this production is not for you as there are plenty of pelvic thrusts, sexual gyrating, and un-politically correct comments with Eddie remarking that the Chinese have smaller eyes and so smaller dreams that left me wondering – where are they going with this? Sometimes these techniques are effective for the shock factor or to reconsider a stereotypical view but a different impression is left altogether with questionable lyrics as Sheila, Eddie’s black girlfriend, singing that blacks are too slow, whites are too fast, need a yellah man to make it last. As a story about personal transformation and identity, the concept of a Chinese Tom Jones is interesting as Eddie describes him as the “blackest white man in showbiz” with over 100 million in record sales. Unfortunately the ideas are not well executed, the script isn’t tight, and the music did not leave me bopping in the aisles. This is a disappointing offering from Theatre Royal Stratford which has produced previous runaway musical successes.

Info: Takeaway is at Theatre Royal Stratford East until July 9, 2011 | www. stratfordeast.com

Jul Six Rounds Liminal Space presents the European premiere of Six Rounds by award winning African- American playwright John ADEkoje and is directed by Prav MJ. Six Rounds is a noholds-barred exploration of identity, and mortality on the streets of New York.

In a metaphysical boxing ring, we experience the story of Ace, a black youth of ‘sculpted body and mind’ who makes tough decisions that have far reaching consequences.

Ace seeks the truth as a hip-hop DJ cuts and scratches to the beat of his life. John ADEkoje’s self described “tragicomic hip-hop concerto” weaves an unconventional tale of morals, love and the realities of the streets.

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

Un

til 3 Jul Merchants of Bollywood Following a sell-out critically acclaimed international tour and packed houses at the Peacock Theatre last summer, the glamour and glitter of Bollywood is back! A theatrical dance extravaganza, The Merchants of Bollywood charts the history of the world’s largest and most prolific film industry, and the dynasty of stars

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THEATRE

that have lit its way over generations.

Info: 7.30pm | Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London WC2 | www. sadlerswells.com

09

Jul Iroko Theatre Company presents Fixer Iye Aja [] Richard Umbilical Pepple as Cord Chuks and Project Damola A piece of Adelaja as music theatre Laurence exploring how African rituals and acting as a go-between customs have been for foreign adapted to suit living journalists and in the UK. local groups. But As part of as more players the Heritage get involved, the Lottery stakes get higher and Funded ‘Iye the risks get bigger. Set Aja’project we will be in northern Nigeria showcasing various against a backdrop African marriage, of global turmoil burial, coming of age and corruption, and birth/naming Fixer is a fast-paced ceremony traditions drama that asks and also the questions about nostalgia of lost journalistic rituals. All these Iroko Theatre integrity, will be brought to Company loyalty and the life using drama, presents Iye Aja price of human storytelling, music []Umbilical Cord life. and dance.

Project Info: 7.45pm Info: 2-4pm | | Oval House Newham AfricanTheatre, 52-54, Kennington Caribbean Resource Oval, London SE11 5SW | Centre, 627 Barking Road, www.ovalhouse.com London E13 9EZ | www. irokotheatre.org.uk

reveals Kuti’s controversial life as an artist and political activist and celebrates his pioneering music.

Info: www.sadlerswells. com

29

-30 Jul Queen Pokou A Black Madonna, a West African hero or a sovereign willing to do anything to reign? A new play based on the life of Ashanti Princess Abraha Pokou and her legendary journey to create a new nation. Written by Dean Atta (Winner of the London Spirit Award) for Stonecrabs Theatre Company, this new poetic

piece of drama tells Pokou’s story exploring her personal relationships set against the wider historical themes of the time.

Info: 7.30pm | The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG | www. thealbany.org.uk

20

Jul – 28 Aug Fela Jul The award-winning Fela Fixer arrives at Sadler’s Wells

By Lydia Adetunji, directed this summer; a provocative Dan Barnard and Rachel hybrid of dance, theatre Briscoe and music exploring the When militants attack extravagant, decadent a new oil pipeline, and rebellious world of British journalists and Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. international spin doctors Featuring many of Fela rush to the scene: everyone Kuti’s most captivating wants the inside story. songs and Bill T Jones’s Chuks, a fixer, could visionary staging, Fela make a lot of money by Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial.

10

Fela

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

17

Professor Wole Soyinka

THEATRE

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

Images: Anthony Ofoegbu

Icompany, Collective n benefit for theatre

Artistes, friend and patron of the organisation, Nobel Laureate professor Wole Soyinka discussed culture and politics at the Southbank Centre with the Centres’ artistic director Jude Kelly OBE at a gala evening last month. Afridiziak Theatre News was one of the few publications that Professor Soyinka agreed to speak with during his brief visit to the UK ahead of the gala evening.

The main reason for your trip to the UK is for the Benefit event at the Southbank centre to raise funds for Collective Artistes.

How do you think organisations such as Collective Artistes influence society for the better through theatre?

By being what it is and doing what it does and that means addressing themes which are not necessarily of relevance but which contribute to society and the community. I don’t want to suggest the themes that a group like Collective Artistes addresses in theatre must be of immediate relevance to that community. No, it can be something different to the immediate concerns but at least it expands the mind of the group and becomes a sort of adventure in understanding the world.

As a play reader for the Royal Court theatre – 18 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

what was it like being involved with such an establishment?

It was exciting. It was a transformative period for theatre in the UK at the time. I was fortunate to have been in that cusp of transformation. The Royal Court theatre was very adventurous and progressive. George Devine, was a real genius as both the Royal Court’s theatre director and manager. He was innovative it took his kind of imagination to recognise immediately that drawing room theatre was over or at least fading out and he saw it and recognised it and immediately dedicated himself to exposing it.

Could you please share one of your earliest childhood memories of theatre?

At an early age, I took part in an operetta directed by my father who was the headmaster of the school. It was called The Magician. I remember I thoroughly enjoyed it even the rigorous discipline as it meant I escaped housework. Being in that operetta was my first multimedia experience combining music, acting and dialogue. I also enjoyed being centre of attention. I played the lead role and enjoyed that very much. At that time I had no idea that one could make a living or occupy oneself doing that sort of job. Even though we had a tradition of theatre such as folk opera I didn’t think people made a living from it. I was either going to be a pilot or a lawyer – the usual stock.

I thought Fela was an original piece of theatre – a lot of imagination went into it.

I think it was a good legacy and what I liked is that they didn’t pretend that they were doing an authentic life of Fela.

Was there a battle with your parents when you didn’t decide to go down that traditional route?

No, no, no. I think my parents would have preferred if I was a doctor or I went for medicine or even law as we have a number of lawyers in my family or education like themselves but they realised it would of been a waste of time.

How has Nigerian theatre evolved over the years?

A rollercoaster journey.

Television encouraged and at the same time unmade theatre. There were regular theatre productions on the television but the quality went down because people couldn’t produce enough scripts at that pace. The quality in acting went down and then simply by hammering at it, by going at it, the actors gained more experience and theatre went up again

THEATRE Wole Soyinka, Chuck Mike and Jude Kelly OBE at the Collective Artistes gala evening

in quality and quantity.

At the same traditional theatre groups, which were called Folk Opera groups also pocketed and benefited from the existence of television because they were living a very precarious existence so the arrival of television meant people earned decent money. Then came ‘Nollywood’ – a word in which I loathe by the way. It’s one of the ugliest words. It’s unimaginative.

First Hollywood, then Bollywood and now Nollywood – for me it’s contrary to the imaginative spirit. From time to time I check out the development and must say in terms of technique and acting things are gradually picking up.

But we mustn’t forget the oil boom which came upon in the mid-seventies and many people abandoned the arts, not to go into the oil industry itself but to go into the various ancillary businesses that were attached to the oil boom. Then there was the civil war which affected the arts very badly and it took some time to recover from that so it’s been a rollercoaster. Now there are regular performances in Lagos although they are finding they have to compete with the video/ film industry but at least it

feeds the actors who don’t get much livelihood from just theatre.

What’s one of your favourite plays that you’ve directed?

When I directed Death and the King’s Horseman in Chicago that was something I enjoyed doing.

I was working with actors who had never worked on that kind of material in their lives and it really was like creating something completely new. They were professionals who had worked on traditional American theatre but this was a new world which I had to induct them so that particular production I have fond memories of.

Where you happy with the National Theatre’s production?

I thought it was a marvellous spectacle. I had irritating moments – I always do. When actors are lazy about new words, especially names – when they don’t give names their correct value. Give them a Russian name and they pronounce it properly...

Yes, I find that very irritating.

What are your thoughts on the production Fela?

I saw it in the States. I thought the vitality was

unbelievable, the Fela lead was excellent and it was also a unique show in many ways as reviewers said, New York had never seen anything like it. It was an original piece of theatre – a lot of imagination went into it. I think it was a good legacy and what I liked is that they didn’t pretend that they were doing an authentic life of Fela.

Finally, are you working

on anything new at the moment?

I never answer that question. [Laughs] Info: Thank you to Collective Artistes for arranging for me to interview professor Wole Soyinka | www. collectiveartistes.co.uk Printed courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News, read the full interview at www.afridiziak.com/ theatrenews

Memories of the Africa Centre and importance...

“I saw some interesting plays there. That was where I first saw a contemporary black South African play. It would be a shame if it was closed down. I think foreign cultural centres where activities of a particular culture go on are vital for all communities so they don’t become too insular so they can have a comparative environment of the arts in general.

If one has the benefits to be able to live in an environment where there are centres of foreign cultures, one should be very grateful as it gives

you a more rounded view. I don’t mean that you will know everything about that culture, no, but you will get a taste of it and that can actually trigger off creativities in you that you never knew existed. Those are some of the advantages”.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

19

MUSIC

I think music and I grew into each other. I did song writing workshops and through them I realised that this is something that I loved.

WORDS: Semper Azeez-Harris

Releasing IThomas through

the talent

Bumi Thomas talks about using her music to transcend boundaries. first heard about Bumi

Wahala’s presenter Eric Soul who said Bumi was a “brilliant singer song writer”. After checking out a performance on YouTube, I agreed.

Her rendition of Ayo’s song Down on My Knees was beautifully performed, powerfully emotive and simple in its message.

With her new EP Feather Pearl a work that looks in part at the “human condition”, Bumi Thomas is progressively bringing her unique earthy sounds to a wider audience.

So it’s your birthday what are the plans?

I am going to Dingwells for Shola’s album launch.

She is a really skilled chord player and her music is very dramatic.

I heard you were born in Glasgow.

I was and my mum is Igbo my dad is Yoruba. They were very cultural and contemporary fusing music with fashion and so we grew up in quite a creative family. My parents also used to run a hairdressers 20 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

and a cultural centre and my father was a DJ. And what about living in Nigeria?

We moved back to Nigeria for a while to live in Kanu. My parents are very adventurous people and they believed they could take something that was cultural unique back to Nigeria. Living in Kanu then it was a very liberal state it was a very international community and my parents set up a jazz club there which was really successful.

So how long were you living in Nigeria before returning?

I moved back to England 14 years ago and I eventually went University where I studied Fine Art and Visual communication and I graduated in 2007.

So music was not initially your first choice.

I think music and I grew into each other. I did song writing workshops and through them I realised that this is something that I loved. I used to write

poetry so just converting poems into songs and that whole creative process was more about expression as opposed to doing it as a career.

So when did you decide to take it more seriously?

Where it became official was when I met my manager about two years ago. I was writing and developing music but I was more fixed on my photography really and that is what I loved but I would perform to family and friends occasionally.

The more that I did the more I realised this was not a fleeting interests but it was actually part of me and I felt well I want to use it and not keep this talent hidden.

So what are the plans to bring your talent to a wider audience?

I am working on my EP Feather Pearl. It’s a five track EP and we are looking to release it over the summer. I am inspired by life and the human condition and the mid sets that help us transcend

them and so that will be something I explore in the EP. Lastly African music is it in a healthier state globally?

There was a time where artists from Nigeria would sound American.

There were artists being true to themselves but commercialisation meant that artists doing the commercial thing were pushed to the front. It has changed now and there are so many artists like Nneka, Ayo, Asa and you have the Ghanaians so it is great.

African artist/s to watch for?

I have to say Nneka. She is great.

Where would you take me in Africa?

Tarkwa Bay because it is a beautiful place.

Info: www.myspace.com/ bumiuk | www.twitter. com/bumithomas

Beyoncé is literally running the world. In just 48 hours, she became the first woman to headline Glastonbury to rave reviews, gave a not so secret show stopping performance at the o2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire for A list peers, pals and some very lucky fans. Then she was trending worldwide on Twitter and her album ‘4’ reached number one on iTunes UK within hours of release, and the US and most of Europe followed suit. The album‘4’ is not ground-breaking, it is a collection of open-heart odes to the highs and lows of being in love that pays homage to the artists of the 80s and 90s who captured that experience so acutely notably Prince, Whitney and Janet. There is therefore no Single Ladies radio

Th

roughout July Black British Music Month British Black Music Month (BBMM) is a BritishBlackMusic.com/ Black Music Congress (BBM/BMC) initiative started in 2006. It takes place throughout June into mid-July. BBMM offers an opportunity to celebrate domestic black music, discuss issues, better understand the music industry, and network. It’s not aimed exclusively at Africans or at just those in the music industry. Here are some of the highlights:

smash with accompanying choreography, unless you are, like me, in the quiet minority that can’t get enough of Run The World (Girls). The lead single heavily samples Pon de Floor and is not indicative of the album’s overall content or style. Instead, ‘4’ is a payoff to r&b fans old enough to have loved Destiny’s Child in their Second Nature days and those who stayed up late to watch MTV’s

• Seminars including Making Sense Of How The Music Industry Works and Preparing A Music Business Plan • Film/discussion: Dream Girls’ screening, followed

by Q&A with the big question: What can we learn from this American story?

• Discussion: Where Is Africa In Words, Music & Politics?

• Fair/showcase: Black Music Records & African Crafts Fair X/Community Fun Day • Discussion: Akoben Awards/Music4Causes

Lime music review: Jill Scott, The Light of The Sun | Lime rating: | Release date: out now Words: Paul Aaaron Jill Scott returns for her first new album in a few years and since leaving the Hidden Beach label.

This is a strong album from the outset starting with my favourite on the album Blessed of which the production reminds me of Marvin Gaye/Leon Ware/Funk Brothers/70s Motown productions. Another track So in Love feat. Anthony Hamilton Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

Presents 4 The Hard Way: Hip-Hop On A Conscious Tip • Film/discussion/ music: Talking Films and Celebrating South Africa • Club/showcase: Back 2 Da Future Music Presents Black British Month Showcase & Party Info: www.

BritishBlackMusic.co

02

-03 Jul Janet Jackson Number Ones; Up, Close, & Personal – World Tour This tour will differ from her previous

MUSIC

Love Jams, this is best exemplified by the Kanye West produced Party, a brilliant 90s summer cookout jam. The production on The Dream penned ‘1+1,’ and I Care and I Miss You, is stark, dark and considered, a welcome sojourn from the current dance dominated charts. The vocals are as visceral as they are vulnerable – never has the private princess emoted like this, and the key changes on the Jackson 5 tribute Love On Top make for deliciously uncomfortable listening. The nostalgic approach backfires on the pointless Best Thing I Never Had composed by iconic 90s hit maker, Babyface, lazy miscalculated lyrics like ‘sucks to be you right now’ age the track and fail to provide it with any real, modern context, why try to replace Irreplaceable? The album is easily Beyoncé’s most conceptually complete album to date, but the lack of pop anthems may alienate parts of her diverse fan base. We don’t care and if this is any indication of what’s to come, we can’t wait for ‘5’.

Info: www.beyonceonline.com/uk concert schedules in that she will perform music exclusively from her chart topping CD Number Ones.

There will also be a focus on venues that will allow JANET to be up close and personal in a much more intimate setting. In each selected city JANET will offer something different to her performance so no show will be the same.

This tour is Janet, more revealed, more intimate, and more personal than ever before.

Info: Royal Albert Hall | www.janetjackson.com

also has this feel. There’s newer r&b and trade mark Jill Scott slow jams, various cameos [Eve, Doug E Fresh and Paul Wall] on the album too. Another favourite of mine is the quirky Nu Wave feeling Some Other Time. A nice mix of real, traditional instruments, singing and spoken word skits on this album which flows well track to track with a natural feel.

Info: www.jillscott.com | Keep up with Paul Aaaron at www.

KeepTheFaithful.com

REVIEW

NEWS

Beyoncé runs the world with new album release Words: Cecillia Makonyola

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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MUSIC MUSIC

El Crisis & Thunder

INTRODUCING El Crisis & Thunder Ea collaborative project

l Crisis & Thunder are

between El Crisis, Chemo and Rami Radi. With influences ranging from Fela Kuti to Nick Drake to Portishead, their inimitable sound embraces captivating vocals, dulcet guitar tones and inventive use of samples and beat making.

What are your names and what instrument do you play?

Chemo: My name’s Chemo, I play sounds, drums, violins. I just play the sampler. I put all the music into the box and then I press the buttons and make some sounds.

Rami: I’m Rami Radi, I play guitar.

El Crisis: I’m El Crisis and my instrument’s my voice.

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El Crisis & Thunder – what’s the story behind your band name?

El Crisis: El Crisis is the name that I go by and I’ve always had that name as an artist. Contrary to what everyone thinks of the word ‘crisis’, it’s associated with negativity, emergency, pain, trouble, strife you know but on the other hand it can also mean turning point and moment of truth. It means heights, climax and pinnacle. So I reflect on the two sides.

I speak about some of the more negative things happening but I also try and take people on to more spiritual heights.

And Thunder?

Rami: Well we struggled with this name for a bit – I

think we can say that can’t we?

Chemo: Yeah, thunder is about power.

What’s different about El Crisis & Thunder?

Chemo: Well, we look funny. Well, mainly me.

El Crisis: I think we have a unique sound.

What’s unique about it?

Rami: We come from different musical backgrounds so we’re all bringing a bit of what we do. I’m a guitarist so I’m into more sort of guitar based music whether it is folky or indie or whatever.

Chemo has been producing UK hip hop for many years.

El Crisis: I do a bit of everything as an artist – rapping, singing, and

El Crisis

MUSIC

Lime caught up with South London trio El Crisis & Thunder ahead of their show at Beach Break Live last month. chanting. It’s a unique mix.

If you had to liken your sound to an already established artist who would it be?

Rami: We’ve thought about this before and we kind of struggled. We are a little bit biased but we do think our sound is unique.

Chemo: Some songs sound like dubby reggae, some songs are folky and some of our songs are African sounding. It’s hard to say the group has a sound like any other. It’s interesting.

El Crisis: We don’t sound like anyone else.

Musically, who are your major influences?

Rami: Well Dave Matthews made me pick up the guitar, Tim Reynolds scared me and made me feel that I could never get good at it but then Nick Drake gave me the confidence to keep at it and experiment.

Chemo: I grew up with hip hop and reggae and for the last two years I’ve been listening to a lot of West African music like High Life.

El Crisis: At a young age for me it was proper soul music – like back in the 60s Motown music – Otis Redding, Percy Sledge, Al Green, Michael Jackson, Millie Jackson, Aretha Franklin – those people.

And on the other side was reggae and roots music –

Chemo and Rami Radi

Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, right the way up to some of the more ragga DJs – Ninja Man, Papa San, Lieutenant Stitchie. These kind of guys were in dancehalls chanting round the mic that’s where the passion comes from.

Your debut single Could She Be Loved is pretty melancholy. Why did you choose this as your first single?

Rami: It was a conscious decision. We wanted to sort of pave the way a bit with this one and let it be a bit of a slow burner and so by the time Every Day comes out – which is much more up beat – we’ve got people ready and waiting.

Chemo: We’ve got a few songs that are up tempo that you can dance to but the thing is we’re building up our following, so it’s nicer to show that side first and then build with some more danceable up beat stuff. Sick.

Of the album tracks which ones do you like performing the most?

El Crisis: I like performing Remember Rami: Feel No Way Chemo: Could She Be Loved Is there anyone you want to thank for supporting you this far?

Chemo: Just Rami and Crisis – my brothers.

El Crisis: There’s no one in particular, just the spiritual realm. The ancestors Most High, you know?

Rami: My mum and dad (smiles).

You represent three African nations; does this influence your music?

El Crisis: We are individuals and we haven’t come together on the basis

Contrary to what everyone thinks of the word ‘crisis’, it’s associated with negativity, emergency, pain, trouble, strife you know but on the other hand it can also mean turning point and moment of truth

See El Crisis and Thunder at: July 9 – Ritzy, Br July 15 – Fat G ixton Chain; Charlie old Wright’s, Old Street Aug 2 – Old Q Head, Islington ueen’s Aug 5 – Baba lou Bar, Brixton of nationality. I would say my influences would be from the West African Griot tradition, linage – I’m dealing more with a spiritual side of things.

Rami: It’s not something that’s bought us together but at the same time it’s something that we’re all proud of.

Chemo: Because you’re half Egyptian, half Irish (gestures to Rami), I’m half French, half South African – having different cultures within the family kind of opens you up to different music tastes and influences.

Info: Could She Be Loved is out now and their as yet untitled album is out later this year. | www. kilamanjaro.co.uk | www. facebook.com/elcrisisthunder | www.twitter.com/ elcrisisthunder

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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KETS N TIC I W ON ETITI COMP

09

Jul Win tickets to see Carmen Rodgers live at the Jazz Café Keep the Faith presents Carmen Rodgers and more…

Carmen Rodgers returns with her new album for her first show at Jazz Café in over five years. She’s USA Neo Soul artist and this is a rare, one-night-only UK appearance not to be missed. Part of Keep The Faith’s Neo Soul WorldWide Live series. Includes Tamara Wellons (Osunlade/Ocha Records USA), Jesse Gamage, Lataille (Ann-Marie of Organic Familia) and KTF DJs Paul Aaaron (UKSoulJam/Groove Lineage), DJ Kay (UKSoulJam/K15) Info: 7pm | Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, London, NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe.co.uk | www.keepthefaithevents.com -To enter, email competition@comelime.com with Carmen Rodgers in the subject header by 5pm, 7 July 2011. Please include your full name and contact number.

08

Jul Tiger Beer presents Derrick Carter Chicago legend Derrick Carter flies in exclusively for a private party that sees him playing all night long, under his ‘Derrick Does Disco’ guise. This will be a very special, exclusive night. The event will take place in a unique, private East London space, with a giant disco ball and bespoke sound system.

Info: 10pm-5am www. residentadvisor.net

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-17 Jul Summer Series at Somerset House Summer Series at Somerset House, set in the spectacular courtyard of one of London’s most renowned public buildings, has confirmed the full line-up of artists for this year’s programme.

London’s premiere open air venue has confirmed a host of exciting new and fast-rising talent, including Miles Kane, Dionne Bromfield, Cloud Control, Yasmin. Limited

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tickets are available for the remaining shows, including celebratory performances by a clutch of 2010’s breakthrough new artists Professor Green, Stornoway and Aloe Blacc; as well as one-off special shows by Imelda May and Lamb; and a final night performance from American alt-rock royalty My Morning Jacket. In addition, Aloe Blacc’s headline show will feature special guests and emerging artists as part of Somerset House’s What Next project. What Next invites young people from across London to collaborate in workshops focusing on writing new music. Now in its third year, the project is being expanded with the launch of a new opportunity for four emerging young songwriters to develop their material with live musicians, mentor support, studio space and access to recording equipment and engineers.

Info: www.somersethouse. org.uk/music

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

Jul Redux Presents: Congo Natty AKA Rebel MC’s Get Ready Single launch This month Redux are proud and honoured to host the launch of a new single from a living legend - Congo Natty a.k.a Rebel MC. The new track, titled Get Ready, features guest vocals from Daddy Freddy, Top Cat, Tenor Fly, Buggsy, and Nanci & Phoebe. Most importantly of all it also features vocals from Rebel himself. It’s been 15 years since he last stepped up to the mic and changed British music forever, so his return as a recording artist is definitely a landmark moment and one that Redux is more than happy to share with you.

Info: 9pm-6am | Brixton Jamm, 261 Brixton Road, Brixton, SW9 6LH | www. brixtonjamm.org

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REVIEW

Jul Erykah Badu The singer, songwriter, actress, neo soul goddess, hip-hop collaborator and philanthropist hits London for one night only. Get ready for an unforgettable live performance.

Info: 7pm | o2 Brixton Academy | www. o2academybrixton.co.uk

EVENT OF THE MONTH

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-17 Jul Lovebox Lovebox, London’s most intriguing and authentic music festival, will once again be returning to the East End with an inspired and as ever eclectic choice of artists for the 2011 offering taking place in July. A plethora of guitar slinging young guns mixed in with hot new blood with flashes of star quality, to epic performances from Lovebox veterans and supercharged sets from global icons will all come alive in the

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Jul First UK Gospel Music Festival 2011 This will be an annual music festival showcasing the finest and gifted artists in and around the UK. This year sees a whole camp of diverse artists ranging from choirs, r&b, hip hop, indie/rock all embracing us with the unique sounds of contemporary gospel music.

- Line-up: Shekinah Glory Ministry, Noel Robinson and Nu Image, John Fisher

Lime music review: Juju Session Upstairs at the Ritzy Brixton Lime rating: Words: Havana WellingsLongmore Upstairs at the Ritzy Cinema in Brixton, there is a great scene happening. A new monthly night brings together lovers of African roots music and the urban jazz scene. Juju Sessions is a monthly Saturday jam with a live musician and band followed by DJ Volta who spins his eclectic mix of African and Caribbean vinyl late into the night.

The first of the Juju sessions featured the incredible Diabel Cissokho and his band. Diabel is a talented Senegalese singer and musician who is a clear master of the Kora Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

Don’t miss Snoop Dogg at Lovebox this month

dramatic backdrop of Victoria Park - Line-up: Snoop Dogg; Kelis; Groove Armada; Example, Roll Deep; Ms Dynamite and more...

Info: www.lovebox.net and IDMC, Victizzle, Faithchild, Tunday, Tom & Olly, New Direction Crew, Jahaziel...

Info: 2pm-9pm | Hyde Park, London | www. ugmf.co.uk

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Jul One Love Peace Festival One Love Peace Festival, the UK’s number one reggae event, returns in spectacular fashion to celebrate their landmark 20 year anniversary,

and Ngoni, both forms of West African lutes.

Diabel’s music, like so many young African musicians, is a fusion of traditional melodies and modern day pop bass lines. What makes Diabel unique is the exquisite folk style melody his instruments allow him to achieve. His set contained songs which seemed to merge country and western with funk and jazz, the electric guitar and traditional drums gave a delightful twist to the Afro-beat influence Diabel music has. Diabel’s set was

transforming London’s Wembley Arena into a tropical fairground as reggae heavyweights from around the world unite under one roof.

- Line-up: Busta Rhymes; Sean Paul; Shaggy; John Holt; Ky Mani Marley; Aswad; Natty King; Gyptian; Skepta; Princess Nyah; Donaeo; Bashy and Etana.

Info: 2.30pm | Wembley Arena | www. originalonelove.com

MUSIC

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20

-21 Aug V Festival The V Festival is an annual music festival held in England during the penultimate weekend in August. The event is held at two parks simultaneously which share the same bill; artists perform at one location on Saturday and then swap on Sunday. The sites are located at Hylands Park in Chelmsford and Weston Park in South Staffordshire.

- Line-up: Dizzee Rascal, Rihanna, Eminem, Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream, Noisettes, Chipmunk, Wiz Khalifa, Tinie Tempah, Katy B, Plan B, Chase and Status, Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars and Dionne Bromfield…

Info: www.vfestival.com

filled with a range of songs from slow love songs to up-beat dance tracks. His voice commanded the room and nobody seemed to breathe on the intimate slow songs but the up-tempo tracks were impossible to keep still to. Everyone at the session was friendly and eager to sway their hips and The Ritzy was the perfect venue for Juju Sessions.

The intimate space brings you closer to the live music but the seating set-up and terrace area provided opportunities to mingle and dance with fellow guests. Juju Sessions is a sophisticated night of music and dance and the crying shame is it’s only on once a month.

Info: The next Juju takes place on July 2, 2011 feat. Seeds of Creation and DJ Volta 45 | 8.30pm | Upstairs, Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton, London

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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MUSIC

Darey

I think that the hard work is now starting to pay off.

The music is getting better, the song writing is getting better and the production is getting better. I just feel blessed.

Nigerian singer and Project Fame contestant, Darey gets into gear to bring his brand to the wider UK audience.

Dhugely humble and

Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

arey Art Alade is

one of the most popular and successful singers in Nigeria. Multiple awards have followed in the past decade since he emerged from the reality talent contest, Project Fame. As it always seems with the reality show phenomenon, the fact that one does not win does not mean that success cannot follow. Darey came third in the show but he has gone from strength to strength working on TV as well as singing to become an artist who now draws comparisons to global star NeYo. Whilst he appreciates such a comparison he states that he’s just “Darey”. With his sites now fully set on taking brand Darey global his first single in that journey features Grammy nominated Chamillionairre on a hook driven club banger that will hopefully introduce Darey to the UK market.

So firstly how did you and Chamillionnaire hook up because you still have not met him?

Well I am always pursuing 26 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

links with others and we just hooked up over the social media sites and I sent him over the files and he liked the track and the rest is history.

Any plans then to actually meet up and work on other projects?

Oh definitely we will be hooking up on some other projects and we have already made plans in truth.

So it’s ten years since you first came to public awareness, how have things changed musically for you?

I have been doing this for many years and I think that the hard work is starting to pay off. The music is getting better, the song writing is getting better and the production is getting better. I just feel blessed.

And since you launched; what about the state of African music globally?

I think there is now more of an appreciation of African and Nigerian music and culture and that is without a doubt. Programmes like MTV Africa have helped in that change and so that

is great.

You are the poster boy of Nigeria and you have been compared to NeYo. I admire Neyo for the work that he has done but I would not say that our music is similar because my music is deeply rooted in my African culture but it is a great comparison.

So you have a self-titled album coming out soon.

The album is self titled and obviously the songs on the album there will be The Way You Are but there has got to be some songs for the ladies and there will be a couple of collaborations with some big artists.

Like who?

Well we have not secured them yet so I cannot say but my fingers are crossed.

Any plans to collaborate with some African artists on this project?

I have already worked with a lot of the African artists already but I would love to work with some of the older artists that paved the way for us and artists from South Africa and Ghana just loads of artists

from around the African continent.

Any last words to your UK fans?

The album will hopefully drop very soon and so with the help and support of you guys it will be a great success. At the end of the day I hope to be more established in the UK and other countries and become a household name.

Where would you take someone in Nigeria?

If you want have fun clubs like Aqua or if you want wildlife then I will take you to some of the parks or I will take you to see the Astro Rock which is just amazing.

What place in London reminds you of back home?

It’s Peckham, innit?

Info: The Way You Are feat.

Chamillionnaire is out now | www.Dareyonline. com

NEWS

At Street Level is a new radio show on the innovative urban, gospel internet radio station Luv 316. At Street Level aims to give the listeners a more in depth look at some of their favourite people in a live and entertaining family show. The show will be a great platform for those artists pushing a new album. This will be an opportunity to talk about their new albums and have designated tracks

27

off the album played to an eager audience. At Street Level will also interview people that may not be artists but are well known or influential in the entertainment industry.

Here they will get a chance to choose tracks that have been influential to them through their life - this is an opportunity to give a better insight into the people and their projects. The show kicks off at the end of July 2011.

Info: http://luv316radio. tumblr.com | www. twitter.com/luv316

NEWS

Luxury book, HipHop: A Cultural Odyssey features never-beforeseen photos and exclusive first-person testimonials from hip hop icons.

Release date: July 25, 2011

Aug Soul Odyssey presents Sister Sledge also featuring Car Wash’s Gwen Dickey, Jaki Graham + Kenny Thomas An exclusive live concert with full band: hits include Lost In Music, Thinking of You, and We Are Family.

Hosted by ‘Kid’ Jensen and Greg Edwards and joined by Soul Revivals’ DJ Bigger & Mike Gee plus the resident DJ’s Paul Nicholls, David Bailey and Richie Hill. playing the best soul, disco, boogie and rare grooves. Soul Odyssey is a brand new event bringing to you the best in classic artists and bands from the soul era of the 70s and 80s.

Info: 7pm-2am | HMV Forum, 9-17 Highgate Road, London NW5 1JY | www.ticketmaster.co.uk

09

-18 Sept The 9th London African Music Festival

MUSIC

Lime contributor Semper Azeez Harris joins new radio station Luv 316

Ayinke Martins

On the 21st anniversary of its formation Joyful Noise presents the 9th edition of the London African Music Festival with 21 outstanding projects of which 17 are making their festival debut. It is staged in four venues across London -to keep alive the original ethos of the festival. Some of the performers include Etienne Mbappe, AngolanPortuguese singer Romi Anauel, Kora virtuoso Sona Jobarteh, Iness Mezel’s, Grammy winner Dobet Gnahore and 6-piece Afro-funk jazz group lead by bassist/vocalist Femi Sofela. Info: www. joyfulnoise.co.uk

Launching this summer is hip hop culture’s first official luxury, large-format coffee table book, Hip-Hop: A Cultural Odyssey.

With an introduction

by Godfather of HipHop Afrika Bambaataa, the book includes special commentary from over 150 of the artistes that shaped the culture as we know it, such as Cee-Lo, Chuck D, Faith Evans, Ice-T, Kool Keith, Method Man, Nelly,?uestlove and Spinderella. The mammoth, 420-page tribute includes never-before-seen photos and interviews with the pioneers, players and legends of hip hop bringing to life the birth, evolution and global impact of hip hop culture over the past four decades from Grandmaster Flash to Nicki Minaj. Hip-Hop: A Cultural Odyssey is beautifully Smyth sewn in bonded black leather and is the definitive literary and photographic celebration of the groundbreaking culture.

Info: www.hiphopculturebook.com | www.twitter.com/ HHCObook Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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MUSIC

J.I.L.L

S.C.O.T.T

Iinterview with Jill Scott,

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

n part one of our

we focus on her new album Light of the Sun which is out now, her desire to win a MOBO Award and how she’d love to work with Adele.

Congratulations on your fourth studio album, Light of the Sun. I’ve heard and loved two tracks so far [So in Love; Shame] and they seem to have an uplifting and upbeat vibe to them. Does that describe how you’re feeling about life right now?

Well that’s just a part of the record – there are a lot of emotions going on here. Shame is kind of a ner ner ner to the idiot who couldn’t see me and I wrote that for everybody who’s had an idiot who couldn’t see them and couldn’t see their value or the benefit of having them in their life. And So in Love came about because Anthony Hamilton came to a show I did with Maxwell I think at the Staples centre in Los Angeles and he said ‘girl you can sing’. And I said ‘thank you’ and he sent me a song and I loved it.

It took me almost a year to record it because I needed to have at least four or five good dates before I could sing the song. I didn’t want to make it up. I wanted to feel good.

You’ve worked with Anthony Hamilton and Eve on this album; how important do you think collaborations are to the 28 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

On the album I think I’m revealing some things about women that most women don’t say out loud and most men don’t know about us. success of an album?

You know I didn’t really think of the success for a collaboration I just thought this is who I want to work with. Eve is a Philadelphia girl, she’s doing well, I’m proud of her. I’m a Philadelphia girl shining some light on the city of love, the city of soul music and Anthony Hamilton has just has one of the best voices ever and I thought there’s no way I’m not going to sing this song. I also worked with Doug-E Fresh. He’s an old school hip hop beat boxer and I always wanted to work with Doug E Fresh ever since I was high school.

He’s the father of the beat box. I also worked with Southern emcee Paul Wall with a real slow, Southern drag and he did a song called So Gone it’s also called Diamond Chick Dick. It depends on what you wanna call it. He wears a lot of diamonds in his mouth so much so he calls it a crystal ball in his mouth. So I thought this will work. Diamond Chick

Dick and Paul Wall – it’s a no brainer. I’d been trying to work with Paul for a few years and nothing was clicking until I sent him this song and he just came into the studio and blessed it.

Why is the album called The Light of the Sun? When I thought about what I wanted to do – this was before I started recording – I wanted the album to be refreshing,

MUSIC

In the first of our two part interview, Lime’s editor has a deep and meaningful with neo soul singer Jill Scott.

warm, revealing. I think I’m revealing some things about women that most women don’t say out loud and most men don’t know about us.

Which songs on the

I asked my Twitter followers if there was anything they wanted me to share with Jill Scott. @Souls4real_life: Please thank her for acknowledging the mis-education of our young girls, ‘Lord, Lord let her be elevated’.

Jill Scott: Yes, it’s from a poem I did in 2001.

Thank you. @MizzGracie: Ask Ms Scott how the campaign to get another series of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency is going.

Jill Scott: I know people have been writing in by the hundreds and that’s incredible. I haven’t heard any good news as of yet. I thought it was a really good show. I thought it was a positive view for Africa, for Botswana particularly.

Giving a face, even if it’s fictitious, but giving a face to Africa that isn’t poverty driven, illness driven, war driven felt very empowering to me and I thought it helped people see Africa in a different light. In a very positive light – a place cannot just be its flaws. There’s so a place or city or country or continent’s flaws so I’m really proud to be a part of that and I’d like it to continue.

album reflect this?

So Gone/the Diamond Chick Dick song, the process of hurt and when you’re heartbroken, how bad it can actually get.

There’s a song called Hear My Call where I basically have no other choice but to just call out to God. It’s like saying I don’t know what else to do. I’m no good.

a lot. She’s young, I’m a little older than she is by a few days [laughs] but I think it would be mutually beneficial for her youthful energy and my medium youthful energy and knowledge about this business as well. We could benefit from each other. I like that girl. I like her a lot.

You’ve won three Grammys which is phenomenal – what more would you like to achieve in your career music wise?

I’d like a MOBO. I’ve never got one of those. I’d like to sell several million more records. I think I’ve accomplished what I really wanted now it’s about setting the goal higher. I wanted longevity. I wanted to be able to perform like Bette Midler, you know until I’m 65/70 years-old, like Aretha Franklin or Barbara Streisand. I want more respect as a writer.

I’m a writer first and a singer second.

What’s your favourite track from your new album?

There’s a song on the new album called Quick. It kind of all came out of my mouth at one time. I’ve been doing that lately. I’ll get in the studio and I just wait until something is bubbling in my mouth and in my gut and then I get in the studio and I blast it.

Quick, is the most lyrics written on the record but it’s only a minute and 49 seconds and I love that. I love the melody of it. I love the honesty in it. It’s about how my relationship went so quickly. How it was over in a blink of an eye. It’s my side of the story and how I felt about it. Quick.

A minute and 49 seconds.

Also So in Love. It makes me feel really good every time I hear it.

When will we be able to see you perform live in the UK? I would like to tour here but I don’t know when. I like Adele a lot and I don’t know if she’s touring or not but she should tour with me. I really, really like her and I think we could offer each other

Info: www.missjillscott. com | Jill Scott’s new album The Light of the Sun is out now.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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KETS IN TIC W N O ETITI COMP

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16

Jul

Win tickets to Flashback – celebrating Mighty Moe’s birthday Relive the best times in the raving scene from the last 15 years. Don’t miss the best of the old skool, new skool and an exclusive super power hour old skool jungle set from Nicky Blackmarket, Skibadee and Det. Arena 1: old skool days with Fonti and Bushkin, Mighty Joe, formally of the Heartless Crew, Masterstepz, Scott Garcia, Pioneer [Kiss FM], Footloose, Spin E B. Arena 2: bashment, r&b, club

02

Jul AWEDIS promotions presents their 5th annual Dinner and Dance in aid of the Prostrate Cancer Charity With music by Complex Feat DJ Fletch/Mello Bostic, dress code is black tie And live PA by Axel the Entertainer and Don Campbell.

• Meet and greet cocktail

classics, 90s, soca and slow jams.

Info: 11pm-5am | Club Colosseum, Nine Elms Lane, London SW8 5NQ -Lime magazine has four pairs of tickets to give-away to Flashback on 9 July 2011 at Club Colosseum. To enter, email competition@ comelime.com with Flashback in the subject header by July 6, 2011.

Please include full name and contact number. reception • Three course meal served with wine • Raffle and auction Info: 7pm-4am | Holiday Inn Bloomsbury, Coram Street, London WC1N 1HT | awedis.promo@yahoo. co.uk

08

Jul Play presents Breakin Science Special with Guests: DJ Nicky

Lime club review: Maggie’s 80s themed night club Lime rating:

REVIEW

Words: Sophia A Jackson Ready for a full on girlie extravaganza myself and two girlfriends headed to Chelsea nightspot, Maggie’s. By the time we arrived Saturday night was in full swing and we were ready to party, 80s style. Maggie’s is themed through and through and they’ve captured the essence of the 80’s to transform this intimate space with its heaving dance floor into one of London’s coolest hot spots. From groups of Chelsea boys waiting 30 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Jul Win VIP tickets to Fancy - the Summer Festival The UK’s favourite and biggest fancy dress spectacle hits town for its summer festival event hosted at new location, Proud2. Dress code: Whatever takes your fancy: 60’s, 70s and 80’s, festival gear, sports day, Hawaii paradise, shorts n’ t-shirts, sunglasses, Lovebox wear, old school shell suits or anything fancy dress. DJ’s: Is Tropical (Kitsune), Beat a Maxx, Tape2Tape (Kitsune) and Ronnie Joice plus guests.

Info: 10pm-4am | Proud2,

Blackmarket and Funky Flirt / Loft: Matt ‘Jam’ Lamont Nicky Blackmarket is one of the original pioneers of drum and bass, and he is still the most faithful soldier for the scene around the world. He is joined

by Funky Flirt, currently throwing down the latest

to twirl you around and couples smooching on the dance floor it’s easy to see why this south-west London club appeals to everyone.

It’s all about 80s music and one minute the DJ’s spinning Footloose, the next it’s The Bangles, A-Ha or Wham or tracks from one of my all-time favourite films, Grease.

But if the tunes aren’t enough to transport you back in time then the decor will. The tables are Rubik’s cubes, and the walls are adorned with graffiti featuring 80s icons like Margaret Thatcher – hence the club’s name, Maggie’s, Timmy Mallett – remember Mallett’s Mallett? Mr T from the A Team’s there too. If you’re looking for a night out in London to evoke nostalgia where sipping Pina Coladas, Daiquiris and Babycham is cool again or you want a night that’s a little bit different, head to Chelsea

O2 London, Peninsula Square, SE10 Lime magazine has three pairs of tickets to give away to Fancy on July 16, 2011 at Proud2. To enter, email competition@ comelime.com with Fancy in the subject header by midday, July 14, 2011.

Please include your full name and number. **VIP entry entitles the winner to queue jump entry + access to the VIP riverside Terrace** beats and bass with dubplates flying, and carving out a niche as a DJ with skills to watch for. In the Loft: old Skool house jump up session courtesy of Tuff Jam brother, Matt ‘Jam’ Lamont.

Info: 10pm-7am | Egg, 200 York Way, Kings Cross, London N7 9AP | www. egglondon.net

for fun that’s guaranteed to get you singing your heart out and dancing the night away. Badly.

NEWS *Manager Alejandro Madrid has created the ultimate summer cocktail: the Slush Yuppie. He has introduced an original Slush Puppie machine and added one key ingredient- alcohol with the original sweet slush Puppie flavours blended with Bacardi Superior rum, crushed ice and strawberries.

Info: Wed/Thu: 10.30pm-2.30am | Fri/Sat: 10.30pm-3.30am | Maggie’s, 329 Fulham Road, London, SW10 9QL | www.maggies-club.com Follow us on twitter @limewithus for free and discounted tickets to the best events in the city

Ou

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t now The Mirror Boy

The Mirror Boy tells a compelling and uplifting story of a young British born African teenage boy named Tijan [Kagutuzi] who is taken back to The Gambia – the birth land of his mother Teema [Nnaji].

Once in The Gambia Tijan gets mysteriously lost in a crowded street market after witnessing a strange apparition. He then embarks on a magical journey that teaches him about himself and the mystery of the father he has never met.

Info: www. mirrorboythemovie.com

Viva Riva

and the focus remains firmly on storytelling: Viva Riva treats its audience to an imaginative portrait of vibrant rogues competing on the streets of Kinshasa.

Last month after a screening of Viva Riva, actor Jimmy Akingbola [Holby City] said, I thought it was really good,

Viva Riva is setting the bar for African cinema”.

Info: www.vivarivamovie. com

10

-11 Jul Caribbean UK Film Festival The genre is the 1960’s and this heritage inspired film festival, exhibition

and awards show invites audiences to be part of the theme and ‘dress’ in sixties inspired styles from Britain and the Caribbean, the Caribbean UK Film Festival 2011 transports you on a journey back in time. View films including features, shorts, clips and footage around music, sport, fashion, film, and history, then debate them with a number of prominent black Britons. The weekend will be facilitated by actor Geff Francis (Ashes to Ashes, BBC1, Desmonds, C4) and Charles Thompson MBE: CEO, and Founder of the Screen Nation Awards.

Info: Victoria and Albert Museum | www.vam. ac.uk/whatson/event/1277/

Ou

t now Viva Riva!

Winner of Best African Film, MTV Awards Winner of 6 African Movie Academy Awards

Commonwealth Vision Awards – theme Women as Agents of Change The deadline for submission of entries is 1st August.

Would you like to see your film broadcast internationally and receive wide-spread recognition? Would you like to win a trip to London worth £2000? Would you like the chance to meet famous filmmakers from Commonwealth countries? The Commonwealth Vision Awards promote excellence in filmmaking. Open to actual and prospective filmmakers from within the Commonwealth under the

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

age of 30, the Vision Awards challenge filmmakers to make a short film, under 4 minutes long, on a developmental theme. All shortlisted films receive widespread publicity and recognition across the Commonwealth through special events, screenings, film festivals and broadcasting of the award-winning entries on television stations. Full attribution is given to the filmmakers.

Info: www.thercs.org/youth/ visionawards

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

NEWS

A gangster thriller about a charismatic criminal, Riva, for whom a sudden influx of stolen wealth ignites an exhilarating, hedonistic and perilous journey through one of the most intriguing cities in Africa – Kinshasa. It expertly combines fresh rhythm, violence and eroticism, and promises to trigger a new wave of African cinema.

The irony of petrol thief Riva’s journey is that he lives in a nation widely recognised to be the richest on the planet in terms of untapped natural resources (in excess of $23 trillion), and yet the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo are amongst the poorest on the planet with the second lowest GDP per capita. Yet the film steers entirely clear of politics

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Summer

SCREEN

Tree of Life

Movie guide

Ssequels, cowboys

Words: Cassam Looch

uperheroes,

been a big hit in the US, so we’ll see how it does here.

and a certain boy wizard that about sums up the summer ahead for film fans looking to venture into the multiplexes over the next few months. Let’s start with the big one, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 looks to conclude the series, following on immediately from the previous instalment. This time you get to see it in full 3D, and whether you love or hate him, you have to admit the last adventure for Harry will be a momentous occasion.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon is another sequel opting for the 3D route. The story is bound to be a confused and confusing mess, but we’ve seen some of the footage and can honestly say it is jaw-droppingly good.

Earlier this year we were impressed by the Marvel comic-book movie Thor, so perhaps we should have some hope for Captain America: The First Avenger. Chris Evans steps into the lead role, and aside from some weird looking special-effects that give him the appearance of a lollipop head, Evans does seem to be the right man for the job. Although we did think Ryan Reynolds

32 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Kids should get a kick out of Cars 2. Although the first film is seen as the least successful Pixar film (in terms of the critics) it is the most commercially viable product the animation house have produced. We’d like to think the return to the world of talking vehicles is based solely on an artistic desire to right any wrongs that might have occurred previously. But let’s wait and see...

was perfect for The Green Lantern and we all saw how that turned out.

There’s always one film that comes out of nowhere to surprise audiences, and this year it could just be Super 8.

It’s not exactly a ‘small’ film, but it does have a young cast, a nostalgic feel to the films from our youth and a clandestine marketing campaign that has managed to get people talking. It’s already

Finally, two films that could go either way: Daniel Craig dons a Stetson and tackles intergalactic bad guys in Cowboys and Aliens. He’s joined

by Olivia Wilde and Harrison Ford, and we think there might just be enough in the concept to get us hooked. Certainly everything looks cooler in an old West setting, and director Jon Favreau has proven he can handle the fun/action side of things with Iron Man. And finally there is a reboot. Rise of the Planet of the Apes might be a mouthful, but the concept as we have gathered from the trailer is an innovative twist that might just be the right way to kick-start a franchise.

Lime movie review: Tree of Life, out July 8

Lime rating: Words: Cassam Looch Award-winning Cannes film Tree of Life is certain to divide opinion. Its introspective structure and the director’s musings on nature, combined with his eternal theme of man’s place in the universe, make for a challenging experience. The director in question is Terrence Malick, and anyone familiar with his previous films will know what to expect.

Languid tracking shots set to beautiful music all combined with a constant intensity are the template around which all of his stories are set. This one in particular focuses on the relationship between fathers and sons as well as the sibling rivalry that can be a destructive force as much as it can be a loving family grounding. Brad Pitt is excellent as the brooding male struggling with his own inadequacies while trying to impress upon his sons the importance of machismo. It’s hard to think of a better performance from the actor, and the film certainly explodes into life every time he is on screen.

Elsewhere the plot is more sedate, but still utterly compelling. It won’t be to everyone’s taste, but if you want something different from all the blockbusters that are about to hit the screens, then this is as good as it gets.

Starring: Brad Pitt, Sean Penn and Jessica Chastain

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Viva Riva!

Lime caught up with Manie Malone who plays the leading lady in Congolese movie Viva Riva.

Wof spending a few Words: Shari Bollers

e had the pleasure

minutes with the divine Manie Malone to talk about her role as Nora in Djo Tunda Wa Munga debut film Viva Riva. She talks about the film, her passions and her love of Africa. From speaking with her there is no doubt as to why she was chosen to play Nora in the film, she is beautiful and she is as passionate as the feisty Nora and it makes for captivating viewing and discourse.

Tell me about you character?

Nora is a desperate, young and passionate woman with a lot of energy for life. She’s with a man who doesn’t understand her anymore and she is trying to search for something in life but nothing is coming.

She is bored all the time,

she’s going out to parties, into drugs and waiting.

We could think she is a girl who is going to men for money but she doesn’t need their money. She needs things for her life.

She is looking for passion in life but there is nothing there for her anymore.

She’s not like them, she comes from somewhere else, and she’s a foreigner.

She is young and has all this passion inside her but she is also like a volcano ready to erupt but we don’t know when. And this guy Riva turns up and we see the beginning of her journey.

How would you describe your character in three words?

Misfit. Strong. Foresight.

What scenes did you enjoy filming?

I liked the fight between

We have this image of Africa which is not very good but actually Africa is modern, spontaneous and it has a lot of mystery to give. And I think this movie will give people a new way to think about Africa

Nora and her boyfriend, when he takes her earring and she says ‘It’s from my family’ because family is a link and she has nothing else, just her life in this foreign country. She has nothing it’s like she’s in prison and she’s fighting to keep alive. When he steals her earring that is all she has that links her to a family, all that she has to survive and at this point it gets too much. That’s why she is always fighting, so that she can stay alive. It’s the same thing and she’s had enough.

Why should someone come and watch the film?

So you will have another point of view on Africa and modern movies. The director Djo Tunda Wa Munga made a movie with passion, he used his heart and with his own point of view as a real artist.

The film leaves your heart beating and you have no time to be bored. You are on the run because the hero, Riva is on the run all the time. You are running with the story, with the hero. You are with the character because you are up close to the face, the body (catches her breath) it’s hot! I do really love this

movie, not just because I worked on it but because I am a fan.

What was it like filming in Democratic Republic of Congo?

Africa to me was like somewhere very far in the beginning and now I have left with my passion. This was my first movie and I have done other things but for me it’s my passion that brings me back to my work. And even if I didn’t work I would go back to Africa and I think Africa has the power to bring you back. I know it’s strange, mystic to say that but I feel that way. Africa brought me back home and now I feel more comfortable and more changed by that. Because we have this image of Africa which is not very good but actually Africa is modern, spontaneous and it has a lot of mystery to give. And I think this movie will give people a new way to think about Africa.

Info: Viva Riva is out now at selected cinemas | www.vivarivamovie.com LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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The Mirror Boy

Tstory of Tijani, played

he Mirror Boy tells the

by Edward Kagutuzi, who moves to The Gambia to get away from the negative drama at home in England.

Tijani gets lost in the jungle when he runs after a boy he sees, and is taken on a mysterious journey in the wild.

Edward Kagutuzi discusses the Nollywood industry, what it was like starring in his first feature film and working with crocodiles.

WORDS: Alicia Adejobi

Tell me about your character Tijan…what was it like playing him?

He’s a young boy, from his age to my age there’s seven years difference.

He’s a bubbly character, he’s happy. I’m used to playing a young character compared to my age, although I do get stereotyped to play a bad boy. It was a nice change to play a happier character.

You’re 19-years-old but you play an 11-yearold boy – how did you manage to pull that off?

Like I said I’m used to 34 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Edward Kagutuzi at the Mirror Boy premiere with his mother

playing young characters so I think I’ve learnt from past roles. Also I’ve got a younger cousin who’s around that age, so just by watching him and his mannerisms I’ve learnt how a 11-year-old acts.

You shot on location in The Gambia, what was it like working over there?

I loved it, the people were lovely. The weather made it hard sometimes, it was hot and I’m not used to being in a hot environment. I loved working there; it’s the best location I’ve filmed in and the second location where I’ve filmed abroad. I would love to go back.

With this being your first feature film, it must have been very nerve-wracking…

Well, learning lines for me is not that hard, but learning lines for a feature film wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be. I just treated it like any other script.

Were you a fan of Nollywood before you started working on Mirror Boy? I wasn’t a fan but I did watch a few odd films. When I first got approached to star in the Nollywood film, I had quite low expectations. But

when I first got onto set, I felt like it was going to be a good project to work on.

How does it feel to know that you’re part of a film that’s made history?

To be a part of it and to be a part of history is heartwarming, good feeling.

This is the best project I’ve been a part of. I’ve got the lead role and it’s going into the cinema.

Do you now see Nollywood movies having more of a future in UK cinemas?

I see Mirror Boy opening more doors for other actors, other directors, other films. And I think if you see this one, you’re likely to support others.

How did you get into acting?

I took an interest in acting and I found an after-school club, and I was acting there for a few years. I did my first short film there, which I enjoyed.

What challenges have you come across in your acting career so far?

Filming with wild animals.

In the film I have to film with crocodiles – when I read the script I didn’t know what to believe. I didn’t know whether they were going to put blue

screen or what. I just didn’t think I’d have to film with wild animals. It was a good experience but at the same time I was scared. But it’s something I won’t ever forget.

So what’s next for you and your career?

I’ve got a new agent so now so hopefully, she’ll be able to get more jobs.

In ten years time I hope to have starred in more films, including Nollywood ones.

Who are the hottest people that everyone is talking about from Africa?

Genevieve Nnaji, who plays my mum in the film – she won an award for Mirror Boy so she’s one to watch.

If we were visiting your country of origin, where would you take us to eat, dance and be entertained?

I’m not too sure to be honest; I haven’t been to Uganda since 2006.

Info: The Mirror Boy is out now in selected cinemas | www.mirrorboythemovie. com

NEWS

Chief Charles Coblah Cheata Thompson received an MBE For Services to the Black Film Industry in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List last month. He said: “It is with great pleasure and pride that I announce that I’ve been awarded an MBE. What can I say, ‘Thank you your Maj’, and it feels good to know the Ancestors have guided me well enough to have

22

Jul Babylon screening + Dennis Bovell

A screening of the 1980 classic exploring reggae culture in London followed by a one-off set from the soundtrack’s composer, dub pioneer Dennis Bovell.

Info: 7.30pm | Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, London SE1 | www.southbankcentre. co.uk

27

Jul – 7 Aug Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House London’s most beautiful open-air cinema is a

finally taken a chunk out of the British Empire’ Charles Thompson is also associate producer of the Mirror Boy currently showing at Odeon cinemas across the country.

Info: www.screennation. co.uk highlight of the city’s summer calendar, the extended 12-day series features everything from UK premieres to cult action thrillers, romantic comedies to film classics – all showing on a state-of-the-art screen with full surround sound.

Spanish master Pedro Almodóvar’s critically acclaimed new film The Skin I Live In receives its UK premiere, opening the season on Wednesday 27 July. Starring previous collaborators Antonio Banderas, Marisa Paredes and Elena Anaya, this unique thriller comes direct from the Cannes Film Festival and will be released in the UK on 26th August 2011. The season then continues with: Sir Roger Moore as James Bond in the much-loved 007 adventure The Spy Who Loved Me; the full version of acclaimed

Film4 Summer Screen Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

SCREEN

23

Jul Black Venus

An extraordinary real-life story in which a woman is turned into a sideshow attraction known as ‘The Hottentot Venus’. Sarah ‘Saartjie’ Baartman was born in South Africa but found fame in Europe in the 19th century when exhibited as a part-human, part-animal attraction for both entertainment and ‘education’. This critique of the values of civilised society is a disconcerting study of the viewer as voyeur, both yesterday and today.

Info: 2pm | NFT1 | BFI Southbank, London SE1

Tune into new online sitcom Meet the Adebanjos

Meet the Adebanjos is a brand new revolutionary family sitcome about a British-African family living in London. In an entertaining way it deals with how a larger than life Dad struggles to instil his old fashion African values in his British household. Prepare yourself for the first of its kind, a feel-good upbeat scripted sitcom which shows a British African family in a fashion which is sure to entertain the whole family.

Info: www.meettheadebanjos.com LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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NEWS

Screen Nation founder receives MBE

director Luc Besson’s deep sea drama The Big Blue; a thrilling double-bill of the action spectacular Die Hard and British director Joe Cornish’s South London-set suspenseful creature feature Attack the Block; Jack Lemmon in Billy Wilder’s multi-Oscar winner The Apartment; Ridley Scott’s emotional road-trip Thelma & Louise (celebrating its 20th anniversary this year); Roman Polanski’s masterful private-eye thriller Chinatown, with Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway; Wong Kar-wai’s sublime and sumptuous love story In the Mood for Love; Edgar Wright’s high-energy romanticcomedy Scott Pilgrim Vs the World; a gritty and dramatic double-bill from the streets of 1970s New York featuring Al Pacino in Serpico and the blaxploitation classic Shaft; and a fairy-tale end to the season with the beloved The Princess Bride.

Info: www.somersethouse. org.uk

GALLERY

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH

Alia, 19 Beirut – © Rania Matar - the exhitibion is part of Shubbak, the Mayor’s festival giving a window to Contemporary Arabic culture.

Un

til 17 Jul Figures and Fictions: Contemporary South African Photography This exhibition presents the vibrant and sophisticated photographic culture that has emerged in post-apartheid South Africa.

It features works by some of the most exciting and inventive photographers living and working in South Africa today. The photographs on display respond to the country’s powerful rethinking of issues of identity across race, gender, class and politics. The exhibition features 17 photographers who question what it is to be human at this time in South Africa with politicallyengaged images arising from a challenging period in the country’s history. The photographs depict people within their individual, family and community lives, practicing religious customs, observing social rituals, wearing street fashion or existing on the fringes of society.

Info: V&A South Kensington, Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk

01

-23 Jul A Girl and her Room by Rania Matar A Girl and her Room, photography exhibition from Arab-American photographer Rania Matar, is one of the highlight events of Shubbak, the Mayor’s festival giving a window to Contemporary Arabic culture.

Info: Mosaic Rooms, Kensington, London | www.mosaicrooms.org

08

Jul David Adjaye: Talking Architecture TALK: Hear David Adjaye OBE, the award-winning

NEWS

Wolf and Badger Graduate Design Awards Award-winning lifestyle store Wolf & Badger are pleased to announce the opening of the second annual Graduate Design Awards after the successful response to the launch of the awards last year. Wolf & Badger is offering three lucky designers the chance to present and sell their graduate collection at the boutique in London’s trendy Notting Hill alongside their handpicked selection of some of the finest independent design talent from the UK and abroad. One prize will be awarded in each of the following disciplines: Fashion, Jewellery and Product Design (including glassware and ceramics.

Each winning collection will be sold in store for a period of three months with

36 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

British architect, discuss his career challenges and cultural ambitions with Lucy Bullivant, architectural curator, author and critic.

Info: 7pm | Victoria and Albert Museum, Hochhauser Auditorium, Sackler Centre | www. vam.ac.uk

Un

90% of the retail price going directly to the designer on each sale as per the innovative Wolf & Badger model. In addition they will receive marketing and sales advice, brand development and design consultancy and will be featured on our website. No license fee will be charged. Entrants are requested to submit three low resolution images of the pieces which they feel best represent their collection along with a written summary of no more than 100 words about their work. Submissions will be accepted until 28th July 2011.

Info: interested applicants should email awards@wolfandbadger.com

til 13 Jul To Figure an Encounter by Nengi Omuku Nengi Omuku is a Nigerian born painter who currently lives and studies in the UK. Having studied a BA at the Slade School of Fine Art, Nengi has just completed the first year of her MA also at the Slade.

Her work functions as a metaphor alluding to wider themes of race, understanding and a mutual belonging.

Info: 12pm til late | Open The Gate, 33-35 Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 8BJ | www. nengiomuku.com | www. openthegate.org.uk

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

05

Jul Achieving your Ultimate Business and Career Success: Being your own Apprentice with Jacky O’Leary and Apprentice contestant Edna Agbarha

dispute.

Info: Tricia Wombell blogs at Black Book News. www.triciablackbooknews.com

an evening with two phenomenal women who have achieved inspirational success in their business journeys. Hosted by Jacky O’Leary, a serial entrepreneur, networker, mother and wife, Jacky is a beacon of what it means to have it all in business

and personal life. As the MD of N1 Creative Jacky has a wealth of knowledge and experience in business and what it means to be “your own Apprentice”.

Jacky will be speaking about her own experiences and fielding questions to Edna Agbarha about

her experiences on latest series of the Apprentice.

Edna faced a number of challenges set by Lord Sugar and his cohorts on this notoriously challenging reality show.

Edna has a wealth of business experience and knowledge; she will be discussing how she developed her own business and maintains her own success.

Info: 6pm-830pm | October Gallery 24 Old Gloucester Street London WC1N 3AL | info@islingtonchamber. org.uk

COMMUNITY

Yvvette Edwards’s debut novel, A Cupboard Full of Coats, is an intense read that achieves what it sets out to, which is to create a terrifically emotional love story.

While the intensity takes place in one claustrophobic weekend, much of the story is told through a series of flashbacks. The main characters are from the Caribbean island of Montserrat, but what shines through is the author’s knowledge of London’s Hackney. The love story told

is a universal one, so it barely matters that all the lead characters are black Londoners, though you’d have to be a West Indian or child of, to fully appreciate the careful pleasure that goes into cooking the ‘Saturday soup’ and preparing Guinness Punch. It seems to me, that the things that get people really talking about books are sex, motherhood and the depiction of black men.

All three are covered in this book in ways that readers will find shocking, show quiet recognition or heartily

09

Jul Lewisham People’s Day Celebrate 27 years of Lewisham’s biggest festival which brings together 100s of performers, businesses and community groups in one amazing day! Every year we try to add some new exciting elements, whether that’s music, dance, workshops or art installations showcasing why it is great to live, work and learn in Lewisham.

Info: 12-8pm | Mountsfield Park, London SE6 | www.lewisham.gov.uk/ peoplesday

OBE awarded to ACLT Co-founder Beverley De-Gale and Superheroes Donation day

Achieving success can seem so difficult for many; with the pressures of financial demands, limiting growth forecasts and constraints on time and resources. But there are many examples of success and achievement that should be celebrated. The Camden Women’s Forum and the Islington Chamber of Commerce present

Co-founder of leading UK leukaemia charity, African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT), Beverley De-Gale, was awarded with an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the Queen’s Birthday 2011 Honours MOBO founder Kanya King at the ACLT’s donor List by the Prime Minister and recruitment drive Cabinet Secretary in recognition For services to Healthcare on June organ donation. They received support 11th 2011. Beverley said: “I am from celebrities including actor Jimmy truly delighted and proud to receive Akingbola, Mobo Awards founder Kanya recognition from the highest order, Our King, Apprentice 2011 candidate Edna Majesty the Queen”. Congratulations, Agburha, Choice presenter and Beverley! In other positive ACLT news, comedian Eddie Kadi, Choice presenter they had a successful day at Choice Abrantee and Broadcast personality and FM with their Superheroes Donation comedian Kat. event last month, signing just under 500 Info: www.aclt.org recruiters for bone marrow, blood and

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

37

NEWS

REVIEW

Lime book review: A Cupboard Full of Coats by Yvvette Edwards Words: Tricia Wombell Lime rating:

COMMUNITY

Dorothy

Koomson

Your latest book describes a more challenging theme than you previous books, can you tell us about it?

One of the best things about being a writer is having the chance to immerse myself in exploring emotionally difficult or challenging subjects. My other books – to some extent – deal with difficult subjects. Marshmallows for Breakfast, for example, dealt with alcoholism, and Goodnight, Beautiful dealt with mental illness. But with The Woman He Loved Before, as with The Ice Cream Girls, there is also the ‘whodunnit?’ element.

Originally, when I came up with the idea, I wanted to write about a woman who feels second-best in her marriage and how, when she has a traumatic experience she is forced to re-evaluate her whole life.

As I planned out the story, the idea of telling the first wife’s story grew. This also involved unravelling what was going on in the first wife’s life that affected her husband so deeply that he found it hard to get over her. When I hit upon her big secret, I knew I’d found one of the core elements of the book. I find, when I’m writing, as soon as I find one of the core elements, the story pretty much reveals itself to me.

What inspires the focus of your books?

I love writing about relationships and families.

Relationships are what life is about, don’t you think? I find human interactions so fascinating, I enjoy reading about them and I adore 38 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Words: Tricia Wombell

Dorothy Koomson is the UK’s top selling black author.

Her latest book The Woman He Loved Before is out in paperback next month. writing about them. When I write a book I start with the basic premise of the relationships in the book and the plot grows from there.

With a book published each year, how do you manage your time?

If I’m not actively writing when a book comes out, I’m usually reading and researching and working through the next story. I manage my time like this: I wake up, mentally go over my ‘to do’ list at the top of which is usually ‘write next book’ and by the time I go to bed I find I’ve only done the things that people have nagged me for the most. In between that I squeeze in research or writing scenes that have popped into my head. The nearer I get to deadline, the more writing I try to squeeze into the day, which usually spills over into night. When deadline looms I will cancel virtually everything else and concentrate – night and day – on

finishing, then editing and rewriting the book.

Which one of your books has given you the most satisfaction?

I take satisfaction from all my books because they’re finished. If I didn’t get some sort of pleasure from at least that, then there’d be no point in writing.

I do it because I love it.

My favourite book is The Cupid Effect, simply because it was the first to be ‘out there’ in bookshops and the first book that allowed me to call myself a published writer – basically, my first-born.

What did you do before you became a full-time author?

I was a journalist, editor and sub-editor right up until I started writing my fifth novel, Goodnight, Beautiful. I lived in Australia and worked on a magazine for two years, and it was when I was made redundant from that job that I decided to make

the leap of faith when I returned to England and become a full-time novelist.

It’s pretty daunting, and I wouldn’t necessarily advise anyone else to do it because you need to keep a roof over your head and pay your bills.

Who are the stars of the African continent?

The Ghana Black Stars of course! I don’t watch football – at all – but even I knew how well they represented Ghana and Africa in the last World Cup. They did Ghana proud! Disclaimer: I may be a teensy bit biased, being Ghanaian and all.

Info: www. dorothykoomson.co.uk | The full version of this interview can be found at Black Book News, www. tricia-blackbooknews.com

Jul Sister Circle London Event: Understanding Racism And How to Deal With It‫‏‬- hosted by BT’s Ethnic Minority Network Dealing with racism, especially what Professor Barbara Trepagnier calls ‘silent racism’, is not easy. This is because it can be difficult to see and harder to acknowledge, particularly by white people. Attempting to challenge silent racism directly can result in accusations of being overly sensitive or reacting badly to harmless situations.

Despite the fact that racism is difficult to identify and pin down it is damaging.

Many Black, Asian and Minority ethnic people can give examples of when they have experienced it or been made to feel uncomfortable in certain situations. The event will be facilitated by Gillian Neish. Since 1988 she has run her own training consultancy working throughout the UK to help them fulfill their potential.

Info: sistercircleldn@ googlemail.com | 5.30-8pm | BT Centre, 81 Newgate Street, London, EC1A 7AJ |

16

Jul African Market Many stalls, drumming circle, homemade food, workshops, African arts and crafts, fashion, jewellery, natural skincare, music, books, DVDs, arts

and more.

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

16

-17 Jul The 37th Lambeth Country Show

The free standout urban festival will be celebrating all that’s best about the countryside.

Info: 11am - 7pm | Lambeth Country Show, Brockwell Park, London, SE24 0NG | www.lambeth. gov.uk/Country-Show

31

Jul Black Reading Group: White Woman on a Green Bicycle Monique Roffey’s book is set in Trinidad and was on the short list for the 2010 Orange Prize. It charts the life of a long marriage. This is definitely a book that will generate masses of discussion.

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

EVENT OF THE MONTH

11

-17 Jul Ethnic Minority Cancer Awareness Week Ethnic Minority Cancer Awareness Week (EMCAW) is one week each year when we can all come together to raise awareness of cancer within ethnic minority communities in Britain.

EMCAW is organised by an alliance of charities working with and within communities to raise awareness of cancer.

- Why is it important?

1 in 3 people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives; therefore it is an important issue for everyone. However awareness of cancer and uptake of some cancer

services is lower among ethnic minorities, added to this some ethnic minorities tend to be diagnosed when the disease is more advanced, all of which can lead to poorer survival.

Additionally research indicates that some cancers are more common among particular communities and groups.

For example: • African-Caribbean men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer compared to white men.

• Mouth cancer is more common among South Asian communities • Liver cancer is higher among Bangladeshi and Chinese communities.

Info: www.emcaw.co.uk

COMMUNITY

14

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

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

39

Images: www.africadatabase.org/photogallery.htm

Save the Africa Centre

The Africa Centre to be sold

COMMUNITY

Words: Lee Jasper

Tcharitable body that he Trustees of the

that could be developed with key investors to ensure the centers long term sustainability.

holds the freehold for the historic Africa Centre have taken the decision to sell the centre because of rising maintenance costs related to the upkeep of the historic Grade 2 listed building at 38 Covent Garden London.

Currently the estimated cost of making the building good is said to be around £2million.

Founded in 1962 and officially opened by the late President Kaunda of Zambia in 1964 the building was gifted to the African community by the Catholic Church. The Centre has an extremely prestigious and proud history and has been supported and visited by the likes of Bishop Desmond Tutu, President Kenneth Kaunda, Author Wole Soyinka and political activist Walter Rodney to name but a few.

Influential organisation such as the Association of African and Caribbean Literature held its inaugural conference there in 1979 “How o teach Caribbean and African literature in schools”. In 1980 Nelson Mandela and his fellow prisoners smuggled out a statement from the notorious South African apartheid jail on Robben Island. The statement was published at an African National Congress press conference held at the centre.

With a long history of arts exhibitions, lectures, cultural events and much more the Africa Centre has remained at the centre of cultural, intellectual and artistic life of those communities whose

40 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Finally how many cultural assets have we seen sold in the name of economic stability, cultural sustainability? There are many examples of such sales in the African Diaspora but few indeed if any have delivered the initial promise made by those who made the sale.

An ambitious redevelopment programme launched in 2008 was undermined by the recession and made sustainable redevelopment a huge challenge. An active campaign seeking to persuade the current Trustees not to sell has sprung into life with some high profile supporters such Bishop Desmond Tutu, Mo Ibrahim and Youssou N’Dour amongst others, together with over 1,000 people who have signed the online petition to save the centre.

trustees exhausted with the constant pressure of maintaining the building and beset by the usually internal bickering and factionalism that at times seems to bedevil our community have thought long and hard about their decision to sell.

Having witnessed their various pleas for financial assistance over the years and not receiving the support they needed at that time it’s rather ironic that they are now being pillared for taking the action they have. We are a deeply reactive community.

We failed to respond to financial appeals for help and support then decry the Trustees who have been forced by our inaction to face the financial realities.

Whilst I sympathise with the current Trustees I am minded to add my name to those opposing the sale of the centre for the following reasons; as a community we have very few real prime assets in this country and 38 Covent Garden is one of them. We need if we can to invest and preserve these cultural and financial assets.

Of course there is no doubt that the current

I believe that there are a range of financial models

interest in all things African. From poetry readings to Jazz nights as well as political and economic seminars the Africa centre has been at the forefront of intellectual and cultural life for over 40 years.

Jazzy B’s most famous funky dread nights were initially showcased at the centre prior to his success with Soul II Soul. Dotun Adebayo BBC presenter, Paul Boateng and many others attended and supported the work of the centre.

I would have thought a good place to start would be with the high profile opponents of the sale such as Mo Ibrahim and others who should form an investment consortium to save the centre. The problem we suffer from most acutely is the failure to be proactive. The centre could have been saved years ago and as usual a few people are left carrying the burden and when tough decisions have to be made they get the brickbats. That I understand however there must be a viable alternative and given the property markets downturn it might make better sense to explore those options whilst waiting for the market to recover.

I for one would certainly actively support any attempt to keep the historic Africa Centre in 38 Covent Garden.

Printed with thanks to Operation Black Vote: www.obv.org.uk Info: The Africa Centre 38 King Street Covent Garden London WC2E 8JT | www. africadatabase.org | Sign the petition: www.gopetition.com/ petition/44717/sign.html

COMMUNITY Leading Ladies Sinem Bilen-Onabanj, Jodie Dalmeda, Edna Agbarha,Sonia Meggie, Linda Asafo-Agyei, Tenneka Campbell and Sophia A Jackson [Image Olmec Photography]

Afridiziak Theatre News and Lime editor Sophia A Jackson speaks on Leading Ladies panel at Inspirational YOU Words: Vernia Mengot Inspirational YOU was an insightful event for both young and aspiring minds.

On Saturday 25th June 2011, London Southbank University played host to budding business experts, fashion and media minds who work behind some of the world’s top industries in media, marketing fashion and PR, publishing, law, finance and corporate business. The day was packed with seminars and workshops delivered by experts and industry insiders, who shared their experiences in life and their career journeys. The organisation Inspirational YOU is a not-for profit organisation that began with the hope to inspire everyone and “promote and increase their skills base in a positive and professional environment”.

Founded by Sonia Meggie it has since gone on to hold regular events to promote enterprise in young people featuring entrepreneurs and professionals who help to lead, inspire and support people in the UK. As guests arrived at the London University, they were welcomed by stalls of exhibitors showcasing their business ventures, including fashion and textiles, bespoke handmade jewellery, books, greeting cards and help and advice. A fashion

show and seminar in aide of charity organisation African-Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) invited guests to watch a live catwalk of some of the UK’s upcoming and well established designer’s latest collections organised

by Denise Brown, hosted

by Andrea-Mae. Guests were entertained by music by DJ Masherelly and fashion designers included Fayankoso, Embellished UK, Concrete Rose, Individual, DK Darlington, Kamondi Couture, Danielle Laine and Anike Midele who all inspired the audience with such tasteful and creative collections. One collection

by Zed Eye was influenced by the 1920’s and 40’s with some of their designers featured in publications such as ELLE, Grazia and the Metro. Singer Kelis has also worn an outfit from Zed Eye’s line. Several inspirational workshops where held on the day, and visitors were encouraged to participate in Q&A’s with some of the leading experts invited as speakers to the event. Including Seven great ways to always be motivated, working with the media and what do men really think? Lime/ Afridiziak editor Sophia A Jackson was also on the Leading Ladies panel alongside Jodie Dalmeda (head of media and artist Management at Virgin

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

Unite), Linda Asafo-Agyei (VP at Barclays Wealth), Tenneka Campbell (floor manager at ITN), Sinem Bilen-Onabanjo (editor-inchief, Fab Magazine) and Edna Agbarha (business psychologist / 2011 BBC Apprentice contestant).

It was an inspiring event and many life lessons were

taught if not learnt. I for one believe that it was a true eye-opener.

Info: The next Inspirational YOU is on September 5, London | December 2011, Ghana and January 2012 in Nigeria www.inspirationalyou. co.uk | Images: www. olmecphotography.co.uk

OOK WIN B N O I ETIT COMP Win a copy of Freddy Fynn’s Of Life and Love Of Life and Love is a collection of eight moral tales Written to offer insight into how life’s choices are influenced by life experience, and to show a range of different perspectives on moral issues, this collection is also a take on the short story genre. The eight tales contained within this collection are all influenced by African themes and a touch of Christian ideology. The collection includes tales such as: A King’s Lullaby - in a small African village, a wise King’s sayings are chronicled. In the Tenderness of Love a housewife must choose forgiveness or divorce after discovering her husband’s infidelity.

Info: http://www.freddyfynn.com/ Lime magazine has five pairs of Of Life and Love

by Freddy Fynn to give-away. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with Freddy Fynn in the subject header by July 31, 2011. Please include full name and address.

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

41

COMEDY

Lime caught up with Kat Francois to talk about the power of the spoken word and her comedy show at Theatre Royal Stratford East this month.

K

at Francois is a triple threat who refuses to be pigeonholed and cites herself as purely an entertainer through poetry, music and comedy.

Kat’s got

your tongue

Words: JENNIFER ROCK

Artists such as the late Michael Jackson said that the music/words often come to them in the night, would you agree?

It could be anywhere like the bus stop, I like to be around people, that’s when I seem to write my best. I might be sitting at poetry events and be inspired by what’s going on.

So how did you start out?

I was writing secretly for years. Starting out 10 years ago, I didn’t know you could take your words, learn and recite them like a performance; it just took my breath away.

42 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

You lend your hand to music and comedy as well, is there a preference or any major transition?

I just like to perform, everybody tries to box performers. My comedy and music are new in comparison to my poetry.

These are all things that have been a natural and organic transition.

You host the monthly performance poetry night Word4Word. It must be a pleasure being surrounded by such raw talent.

Yes we hit seven years last October, I do feel blessed and lucky, though it’s a lot of hard work. Some people see you on stage and think it’s easy, but they don’t see the preparation, rehearsing, the writing or what it takes to get there.

Where do the words come from?

Just life, things that inspire me or make me vex, those are the things I tend to write about.

When you won the UK Poetry Slam in 2004 and were crowned World Slam Champion in 2005, do you feel this cemented your place in this industry?

It opened me up on an international level to travelling and performing overseas especially in Europe. It also gave me the opportunity to do BBC work on the radio and even got me onto Blue Peter.

bungee jump, only this is my flying.

Through your words, what do you want audiences to evoke?

You can use comedy to tackle the most serious of issues. Some people won’t like what you say but 99 per cent of people will, if you change for everyone, the question is who are you?

You have a comedy event coming up at the Stratford Royal, Kat’s Got Your Tongue; how are you preparing for this?

Pulling out my locs (laughs), I am in rehearsal and writing new material.

I’m on the comedy scene trying out my new characters, reading and

watching Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor.

Why should people come and see your show?

I am funny as hell. I have got a lot of new things to say. I am shameless; I talk about things that other females don’t dare to talk about.

How are you feeling when you’re onstage?

Very nervous, sometimes I rip up scripts before shows. I am a perfectionist and put a lot of pressure on myself. But once you start connecting with the audience it is the most amazing feeling probably similar to people who

I heard word of an upcoming book later this year, what other projects do you have in the pipe-line?

I am working on my second collection of poetry coming out later in the autumn. I have a small publishing company and I am looking to do an anthology of black artists on the scene and archive them.

What and who are the greatest exports of the African continent?

I admire African writers and Nigerian novelists, also Maya Angelou. The highlight of my year was watching D’bi Young from South Africa who dealt with politics and hard issues as a solo female performer.

Info: Kat’s Got Your Tongue is at Theatre Royal Stratford East from 10-11 July 2011 | www. stratfordeast.com

Jul Paul Chowdhry

Brand new material and unscripted improvisation is his trademark. Share Paul’s acute observations on subjects such as how the word ‘irony’ replaced the word ‘offensive’ and became the PC way of behaving distastefully.

And why don’t friends like it when he orders from a Chinese restaurant in the same accent as the waiter?

Info: 7pm | indigO2, Greenwich, London SE10 | www.theo2.co.uk/indigo2 | www.paulchowdhry.com

10

/ 11 Jul Kat’s Got Your Tongue | A Comedy Show by Kat

Kat Francois – award winning performance poet, playwright, and former World Slam Poetry Champion – turns her hand to comedy. After six years of hosting live music and poetry events, she is ready to jump in the fire and put her funny bone on the line.

So sit back and laugh until your belly hurts, whilst Kat introduces you to her unique and hilarious take on the world; including wheelchair adventures, her irrational fear of dog mess, why she hates bus drivers, angry vaginas, the emotional scars left behind by puberty, running the London marathon and much, much more.

Info: | 7:30pm | Theatre Royal Stratford East, London E15 www. stratfordeast.com

Un

til 17 Jul E4 Udderbelly Festival 12 weeks of udderly affordable entertainment for all ages and all tastes starting from 21st April.

As well as Comedy 4 Kids, the line-up includes Gina Yashere, Alun Cochrane, Brendon Burns, Dom Joly, Hardeep Singh Kohli and Rory Bremner.

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

28

Jul Quincy: The Book Of Quincy, The Comedic Scriptures

Kat Francois is the Grenadian Granny

We’re celebrating the start of summer with four hot nights of cutting edge comedy: the sparkiest acts, the ones with the cult following and the award-winners. See them all here and kick-start your summerfest with a chortle or two. Does the church need a new

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

marketing plan? Can Islam squash the beef with the Danish? And is the Jedi a force to be reckoned with?

Award-winning comedian, Quincy, hits the stage with engaging satire.

Info: 8pm | Stratford Circus, Theatre Square, Stratford, London E15 1BX

stand-up material, as well as appearances by some of his favourite characters.

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

29

Oc

Jul Andi Osho - All The Single Ladies

Following her hit 2010 Edinburgh debut, Andi is back home in Newham.

In this brutally honest and totally hilarious stand up show, Andi dissects the pit falls and perils of dating. One of the UK’s fastest rising comedy talents, don’t miss this chance to see Andi (Mock The Week, Stand Up For The Week, Never Mind the Buzzcocks) live on her home turf.

Info: 8pm | Stratford Circus, Theatre Square, Stratford, London E15 1BX

01

-7 Aug Marc Lottering A resident of Cape Town, South Africa, Marc is considered to be one of the country’s top comedians.

Marc often entertains expats around the globe, and last year, appeared at the Royal Albert Hall alongside South Africa’s top comics.

Lottering in London will feature Marc’s latest

HEADS UP

COMEDY

02

t 2011 Angie Le Mar’s One Woman Show – In My Shoes Angie Le Mar is back.

This time she is ready to get her heels stuck firmly in.

Her brand new show premieres at The Soho Theatre this October, before it goes on the international Stage, 2012 New York, LA and Atlanta to name a few.

In My Shoes transports Angie to her comedy’s edge. This really is Angie as you have never seen her before as she steps into the shoes of some hilarious characters; introducing some outrageous personalities, told to us in her own unique style.

Written by and starring Angie Le Mar; directed by Femi Elufowoju Jnr and designed by Jennel Joseph.

Info: www.angielemar.com

02

Oct Young Kings of Comedy Experience the best young urban comedians in the UK today; Eddie Kadi; Richard Blackwood; Kevin J; Kane Brown; Kojo; Jamie Howard and Axel The Entertainer. Hosted by Kat B Info: 8pm | Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU | www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk

29

Oct Dons of Comedy 2011 Featuring Slim, Felicity Ethnic, Felix Dexter and Curtis Walker Info: 8pm | Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU | www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk LIME MAGAZINE 2011

43

BREAKTIME

TAKE A BREAK PUZZLE AND JOKE PAGES THAT ARE FUN FOR ALL

X-WORDS

Can you find the words ending in X hidden in the box? They may be horizontal, vertical or diagonal, forwards or backwards.

ANNEX,

APPENDIX, CLIMAX, COMPLEX, CONVEX, CRUCIFIX, DUPLEX, EQUINOX, EXECUTRIX, FLUMMOX, HELIX, IBEX, ICEBOX, INDEX, INFLUX, JINX, JUKEBOX, LARYNX,

MATCHBOX, MATRIX, MULTIPLEX, ONYX, ORTHODOX, PARADOX, PERPLEX, PREFIX, REFLEX, 44 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

RELAX, SPHINX, SUFFIX, SURTAX, TELEX, TOOLBOX, TRANSFIX, VERTEX, VORTEX.

Hub-Words How many words can you make from the letters in the wheel? Each word must contain the hub letter N. Can you find a 9-letter word and at least 25 other words of four letters or more avoiding proper nouns?

SOLUTION: 9-letter word - AFTERNOON Some other words of four letters or more containing the hub letter N: aeon, anon, ante, earn, fern, font, near, neat, neon, none, noon, note, oner, onto, rant, rent, roan, tarn, tern, tone, torn, atone, front, oaten, tenon, tenor, toner, tonne,ornate, tanner.

LETTERBOX,

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 2011

45

LAUGH OUT LOUDER! BREAKTIME

LET’S KEEP THE LAUGHTER GOING

An eldery patient gets hearing aids from a doctor. After short time, he meets the doctor again.

king the e farm, chec and th d n u o ar ios his boss d is driving A farmhan a few minutes he rad a pig on the road it er h ft I A . blem still fences. ve got a pro ars of my truck. He’s I’ , ss o “B s, -b ll say u b e th ck in and he’s stu hat should I do?”

W . g n e li g g wri n. Shoot th e’s a shotgu you can er th ck u tr k of your wriggling “In the bac d and when it stops he farm worker T ea h .” e sh th a bu he pig in d throw it in bout 10 minutes later pig an t u o it ll e A . pu th ff t o o s sh n g I d si said, says okay an oss I did what you bush.”

“B . a radios back it out and threw it in and dragged ss w?” his Bo problem no e th ’s at h “So w snapped. e is still is motorcycl h n o t h g li “The blue flashing!”

Q. Why shouldn’t you disrespect Nicki Minaj?

A. She’ll make another song about it. No one wants that.

Did you break wind cause you’re blowing me away?

Teacher: “Johnny, can you tell me the name of 2 great kings who have brought happiness and peace into people’s lives?”

Little Johnny: Drin-king and smo-king 46 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Doctor, “Your hearing is perfect.

Your family must be really pleased.”

Patient, “Oh, I am in a funny situation now. I haven’t told my family yet. I just sit and listen to their conversations.

In a month, I’ve changed my will three times!”

Tony had ju st finished reading a n ‘You Can B ew book en e The Man of Your Ho titled, use.’

He stormed to his wife nounced, ‘F in the kitch rom now o en and ann, you need the man of this house to know th an at I am prepare me d my word a finished ea gourmet meal tonigh is Law. You will tin t, ous dessert g my meal, you will and when I’m serve me a . sumptuAfterwards, y relax. You w ou are going to draw me a bath so il bring me m l wash my back and towel me d I can y robe. ry and Then, you will massa ge tomorrow, guess who my feet and hands. T ’s going to my hair?’ dress me an hen d comb His Sicilian w would be m ife Gina replied, “T he funeral y first gues director s.”

© 2011 Colomer UK

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