The Remarkable Men by Dean Serieux

EDITION ISSUE 23, June 2011

www.comelime.com

in association with

events

MUSIC

COMMUNITY

theatre

COMEDY

screen

CLUBS

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Raphael Saadiq

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ONto I T TI ts

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CONTENTS

JUNE 2011 18 Cover Story Raphael Saadiq 04 World Events BET Awards 05 Events Happy Soul Festival 08 Food/Drink Our New Section

11 Fashion/Beauty Gavin Douglas 14 Gallery Noire 15 Theatre Where The Flowers Grow 19 Music Alexis Jordan

28 Comedy Roast of Harvey

Word from the Editor

30 Clubs Alex Gaudino

Welcome to Lime’s second annual Remarkable Men issue.

32 Screen Aml Ameen 36 Community TeyaLilly cards 44 Breaktime Get your jokes on EDITION ISSUE 23, June 2011

www.comelime.com

in association with

theatre

COMMUnItY

sCreen

COMeDY

£2.00

We speak to men from all walks of life that are making remarkable and admirable strides in the world of theatre; music; fashion; screen or the community and turning adversity into positivity.

MUsIC

events

ClUBs

Raphael Saadiq

gallerY

N TIO to ETI ckets don MP Win tiof Lon GE 10

Tas

E PA

Published By Got Media Limited

We also pay tribute to Gil Scott-Heron who died last month and left an unforgettable and remarkable contribution to the music world. This issue sees the launch of our new Food and Drink listings section – offering you the latest reviews and news on London’s finest eateries. Tuck in…

Sophia A Jackson xx

editor@gotmedialive.co.uk

Team Lime Editor Sophia A Jackson editor@gotmedialive.co.uk Designer Mialisa Fenty Contributors Cassam Looch Semper Azeez-Harris Tricia Wombell Alicia Adejobi Micallar Walker Nicke Adebowale

Jennifer Rock Victoria Woode Karla Williams Gavin Adams 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

WORLD EVENTS

5 remarkable facts on the Barbados Crop-Over Festival

entertainment package with the most popular calypsonians and bands performing to packed audiences. The children are not left out as they can participate in the Kiddies Kadooment, donning beautiful costumes and joining their friends in a band to parade before the judges of the competition.

Words: Mialisa Fenty

The Crop-Over Festival in Barbados is one that embraces both the young and the young a heart. It is a popular and colourful festival whose origins can be traced back to the 1780s, a time when Barbados was the largest producer of sugar. At the end of the sugar season there is always a big celebration to mark the end of another successful sugar cane harvest – this is where the Crop-ºOver festival comes in. Here are some interesting facts about the annual event. 1. Crop-Over, this year, starts on Saturday July 2, with an Official Opening Gala and Ceremonial Delivery of Last Canes. This tradition comes to life with the re-enactment of some of the practices that were once held in the plantation life of the island.

– 13 Jun Caribbean International Fashion Week – Jamaica

CFW 2011 blazes into a new decade – see the best designers from around the region and across the globe. World famous cover girls, celebrities and electrifying concerts with Joe, Machel Montano, Mavado, Tanya Stephens and more. This will not only herald a new decade of the best of Caribbean style, it will help to cement the status of this event. More importantly, it will continue to provide opportunities for Caribbean talent to emerge and take its place among the best the world can offer. Info: National Indoor Sports Centre, Kingston Jamaica www. caribbeanfashionweek.com

4 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

2. The musical vibrations of the steel pans are also big in Barbados around this time of year and it is further encouraged with shows such as Bridgetown Alive Pantabulous, Pan in the City, Pan Pun De Sand and now a premier showcase where Pan meets Jazz at Ilaro Court. 3.Cohobblopot is a huge carnivallike show with members of the Kadooment bands displaying their elaborate and stunning costumes. There is also a huge

– 19 June DC Black Theatre Festival

The DC Black Theatre Festival [DCBTF] is a weeklong event celebrating Washington DC’s thriving theatre community. The DCBTF will bring together a wide array of local and national artists, writers, producers, theatre companies and theatre lovers in what promises to be one of the city’s biggest self-producing black theatre projects ever. Info: www.dcbtf.org

Jun BET Awards: UK and African stars shine among America’s leading acts – Los Angeles Actor and comedian Kevin Hart will host this

4. Folk concerts and art and photographic exhibitions are integral parts of the festival, highlighting Barbadian history and culture as well as the artistic talents of Bajans. 5.The grande finale is the Grand Kadooment! This carnival parade features large bands with members dressed in elaborate costumes to depict various themes. Designers compete for the coveted Designer of the Year prize while the revellers seem more intent on having a good time.

year’s event at the historic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Leading grime and rap stars Tinie Tempah, Tinchy Stryder, Chipmunk and Skepta are featured along with rising female artists VV Brown and Laura Izibor in the first ever Best International Act UK. Hackney-born Idris Elba has also made the Best Actor nominee list for the third consecutive year. The event will be premiered in the UK on 30 June, 8pm, Sky channel 191 | Freesat 140. Info: www. bet.com/ shows

HEADS UP

– 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 African-American women. Line-up includes: Jill Scott; Chaka Khan; Jennifer Hudson; Boyz II Men; Charlie Wilson; Fantasia; Trey Sonz; Kanye West, Usher, Mary J. Blige and New Edition Empowerment speakers include: Steve Harvey; Iyanla Vanzant and Terry McMillan Info: www. essencemusicfestival.com

EVENTS NEWS

Kanika Chandok sets the stage ablaze with sensational performance at Asian Women of Achievement Awards Singing sensation and artistic all – rounder, Kanika Chandok, delivered a breathtaking performance to the guest list that attended the coveted Asian Women of Achievement Awards. Amid the elegant surround of London Hilton, Park

Lane the award ceremony celebrated the often unsung Asian heroines of British life, recognizing formidable Asian women who are making outstanding contributions in the fields as diverse as business, entrepreneurship and social and humanitarian work.

Ignite Brunch, Royal Albert Hall, May 22, 2011 Lime rating: Words: Victoria Woode

ReadNex Poetry Squad will headline at the June 2011 Rum Punch

Jun Rum Punch - the 02 monthly, invigorating

blend of entertainment Join Partnas in Rhyme, for Rum Punch, for an explosive night that’s guaranteed to leave your creative taste buds refreshingly intoxicated and yearning for more. This month’s show, hosted by Comfort, Partnas in Rhyme present to you, a full, impressive line up of some of the UK’s most talented rappers, poets and singers – plus a featured set from U.S. Spoken Word Collective, ReadNext Poetry Squad. They’ll be fun, jokes, Shabbas and the Open mic segment, for all

you enthusiasts who have some creativity to share (1st come, 1st served – sign up at 7:00pm). Info: 7pm | Show: 7.30pm until 10pm | Rudys Revenge (downstairs) 168 High Holborn, London WC1V 7AA | pirevents@ yahoo.co.uk Jun Rugby Rocks 04 The second annual Rugby

Rocks presented by PUMA will feature over 120 rugby and netball teams over the first weekend in June following a successful debut event in 2010. Rugby Rocks is a fusion of massparticipation and music, and last year attracted

EVENT REVIEW

‘The best cheesecake I’ve ever had in my whole life’ I headed down to the Royal Albert hall to tickle my taste buds and experience brunch in a royal setting. I didn’t know what to expect however I had been notified that Ignite Brunch is always accompanied by music/performers. On the bill this week were Sumaya Flamenco – a flamenco dance act based in London. The menu sounded pleasant but underneath the fancy words the food was quite basic. I opted for the poached eggs on toasted brioche with York ham and hollandaise sauce. This was a pretentious size as to be expected but surprisingly filling. My guest chose the English breakfast. Both mains were exquisitely presented.

For dessert I ordered a petite cheesecake, this may have been the best cheesecake I’ve ever had in my life: tasty, tantalising and surrounded by fresh strawberry sauce, simply divine. Sumaya Flamenco danced away to the live music throughout our meal. This didn’t work for me as the music was too loud and the dancing was more of a distraction than an enjoyment. Having to put your fork and knife down every few minutes to give a round of applause isn’t the ideal eating scenario. The experience would have been more enjoyable if there had been live ‘background music’ minus the dancers. Info: www.royalalberthall. com

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LIME MAGAZINE 2011

EVENTS 56 teams to The Athletic Ground in Richmond for a day of rugby and music headlined by Feeder, Just Jack and The Parlotones. This year the event is presented by global sports and lifestyle brand PUMA who will be hosting the ‘PUMA Social’, bringing to life its ‘After Hours Athlete’ campaign. Here fans can mingle with England rugby stars, drink at an exclusive bar and play games such as ping pong and table football. Info: www.rugbyrocks7s. com Jun LoveLife6958 at 04 the London Green Fair

A chance to see Christopher Syrus | LoveLife6958 at The London Green Fair. This is a free festival that reflects the green aspirations and

achievements of London as a whole, as well as providing an enjoyable and engaging day out for people from all walks of life. Info: 12-7pm | Regents Park NW1 | www. londongreenfair.org Jun FLOetic Lara For 05 Lovers Of... album launch

Brixton’s next Legend FLOetic Lara brings you her second album “For Lovers Of....” which was recorded at Bob Marley’s own Tuff Gong Studio in Jamaica. Embrace yourself for an evening of excellent song, hip-hop and spoken word. FLOetic Lara alongside live band performing tracks from her new album. Guest performers include AmeN NoiR, Comfort, Mikel Ameen and Mandisa. Hosted by Kat Francois with DJ 279 [Choice FM]. Info: 7pm-12 am | Plan B, 418 Brixton Road London SW9 7AY

EVENT OF THE MONTH

til 12 Jun Happy Soul Festival 2011 The Happy Soul Festival is the UK’s premier celebration of black and ethnic minority film and arts exploring wellbeing. The award-winning festival, which is dedicated to raising awareness of well-being and mental health in the black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities where these issues are often stigmatised. More than 15 film screenings and community events exploring wellbeing in BME communities will take place across South London and celebrities parti-cipating in the Jun Judith 12 Jacob Yabba

Yabba’s with Friends‫‏‬ Judith is back with her successful live chat show this time at The Ritzy Upstairs in Brixton. Her guests perform,

NEWS

Bunga Bunga arrives in Battersea This summer Bunga Bunga will arrive in Battersea. Deriving its name from Italy’s most titillating joke, this tongue-in-cheek bar and pizzeria will serve authentic cocktails and cuisine in a vibrant space dedicated to Italy’s finest icons, and will also house an entire floor dedicated to the world’s most kitsch competition: The Eurovision Song Contest. Fortunately not Berlusconi, but dynamic duo Duncan Stirling and Charlie Gilkes will be at the helm of this hotly anticipated project. From 6 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

the moment they arrive, guests will be whisked away on a Roman holiday, entering the bar through an Italian phone box. The ground floor will house a striking gondola-shaped bar with the canals of Venice depicted on the wall behind. Other quirky design features include Italian language tapes playing in the appropriately named bathrooms - Donatellas for ladies, Silvios for men. Info: Bunga Bunga, 37 Battersea Bridge Road, London, SW11 3BA | www.bungabunga-london. com

event include: Frank Bruno – who will be interviewed about his public battle with mental health, Mica Paris, Arinze Kene, Vadim Jean who’ll be taking part in a Q&A after the screening of his critically acclaimed film Land of the Free, Levi Roots and Fraser Ayres, who’ll be directing a special production of the play the Patient set in a Psychiatric hospital. Info: www. happysoulfestival.co.uk Judith interviews them then you the audience gets to ask question. This month it’s Sandra Cross and Calvin Francis. Info: 8pm | Ritzy Upstairs, Ritzy, Coldharbour Lane, London | 0871 902 5739

DON’T MISS

Jun Inspirational YOU 25 The half day event will

offer an exciting and unique opportunity for participants to be coached by some of Britain’s leading speakers and top entrepreneurs. This event is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs or those who are considering their career options. This is a great opportunity to start a successful business from scratch, network with leading figures in the business and media communities, develop your interview techniques and interpersonal skills, and be empowered. Includes leading ladies – Sophia

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EVENT REVIEW

I was somewhat dubious as to how Supperclub London would live up to its more established sibling, the Supperclub in Amsterdam as well as play host to Le Crazy Horse – the world famous Parisian burlesque show. But, rest assured you’ll be well looked after by the model-esque waiters sporting slick black shirts with angelic feathered collars. Well-schooled on the ‘surprise menu’, they’ll happily recite details of your threecourse gourmet supper and answer any questions you may have. Expect food akin to perfectly cooked creamy asparagus risotto garnished with slithers of courgette, tender medallions of beef arriving medium rare and a dessert of creamy vanilla ice cream topped with a caramelised crushed biscuit. Le Crazy Horse presents sophisticated

avant-garde cabaret in a glamorous way and they have done so since 1951. With full nudity and miming, I felt it a real shame that we didn’t get to hear the dancers actually sing and also the absence of storytelling through the individual characters left me a little cold. Each act is interspersed with erotic images, clever use of mirrors and skilful projection techniques. Imagine if an amalgamation of all the best James Bond title sequences actually came to life right in front of your eyes! These were the sections I really looked forward to. Le Crazy Horse does tick all the boxes but there’s room for improvement. I’d love to see this show in the shadows of Le Tour Eiffel in Paris or in the devilish glare of the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Info: Throughout June 2011| Supperclub, 12 Acklam Road, London, W10 5QZ | www. suppergoescrazy.com | www.lecrazyhorseparis. com

A Jackson (editor/ co-founder - Lime magazine and editor/ founder - Afridiziak Theatre News), Jody Dalmeda (Head of Media & Artist Management at Virgin Unite), Catherine Dhegbo (PR Manager - De Beers Group

Marketing), Linda Asafo-Agyei (VP at Barclay Wealth) and Nina Malone (Model / Choreographer). Info: London Southbank University London Road SE1 0AA | www.inspirationalyou4. eventbrite.com

Crazy Horse Paris presents a series of limited performances at Supper Club London Lime rating: Words: Micallar Walker

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

EVENTS

‘Surprise menus and sultry moments: Supperclub London goes Crazy’

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Fine dining Italian restaurant Avista is situated in Mayfair and Lime just couldn’t wait to sample their new spring menu. From the moment you step into the sleek and expansive surroundings you are under no illusions that you are there for a culinary experience. Staff are numerous but not intrusive and they possess a wealth of knowledge regarding the extensive selection of wines, spirits and the food on offer. A selection of Italian breads and the calm surroundings are conducive to intimate conversation and add to the first part of this whole experience. Of course the main part of the experience is the dining and it is indeed of a high standard. I opted for one of chef Michele Granziera’s signature dishes, the French bean salad with foie gras shavings and marinated shallots, set the tone. The al dente beans suited well with the melt in the mouth foie gras washed down with the Pinot Grigio. The main was undoubtedly the star generous cut of medium rare Angus beef fillet accompanied by pureed potatoes and a red wine jus had me thinking I would not mind seconds before I’d even finished what was in front of me and that last sad but enjoyable mouthful still resonates in my mind. While the dessert could not over shadow the beautiful main,

The plum tart with vanilla was not so much to die for but rather to kill any fool ready to separate me from this dessert.

the plum tart with vanilla was not so much to die for but rather to kill any fool ready to separate me from this dessert. A light pastry, sweet filling and more-ish vanilla ice cream ended the eating experience with aplomb. Avista is not cheap but why should it be? This is about experiencing something that you cannot replicate at home: fine surroundings, fine dining and fine service. Info: www.avistarestaurant.com | 39 Grosvenor Square, London W1K 2HP

Mahiki Motel and Restaurant launches

Polynesian paradise Mahiki is proud to announce the launch of two entirely new concepts at one of London’s most entertaining venues. This summer, Kate Middleton’s favourite club will see the addition of a restaurant and a karaoke room to the tropical playground loved by fashionistas and A-list celebrities. Mahiki’s restaurant will be located on its own floor and its décor will be in keeping with the rest of the nightspot’s vibrant Tiki setting. Hand-made ‘Princess’ chairs, colourful Hawaiian cushions, handcarved wooden figures, intimate green rush effect banquettes and jetsam and flotsam will hang from the ceiling, all amplifying the illusion of having arrived at some distant port of pleasure. Info: www.mahiki.com

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Inamo [St James] Lime rating: Words: Gavin Adams Have you ever sat in a restaurant and felt the harsh sting of disappointment as your food was laid in front you and looked unappetising and to add insult to injury your forced to watch your partner’s food arrive looking every bit as scrumptious as its incredible aroma would suggest? Well no more of that. Inamo is amazing! Scroll through the digital menu and with a few taps of your finger tips you can have you order literally beamed onto your plate so you can see what your food will look like when it arrives, how cool is that? But what about the taste I hear you wonder? Rest assured the food is amazing and filling. Inamo encourage diners to order food they can share so we went in and opted for Seafood Gyoza a type of Japanese dumpling, Kelp Marinated Sea Bass, 8 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

‘The future of fine dining’ Seared Scallops, Soft Shell Crab Maki Rolls and the Signature dish Duck with Pancakes. The scallops were thinly sliced with a yuzu (Japanese citrus fruit) and wasabi dressing. They literally melted in your mouth, Soft shell Crab Maki Rolls were beyond scrumptious. Who knew round rolls of sushi, with avocado and chives, served with chilli mayonnaise could be so mouth wateringly good? Then we moved

on to Inamo’s signature dish, Duck with Pancakes which was delicious. The duck was crispy yet still soft and moist. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it. For dessert we ended the meal with the Vanilla Crème Brule with strawberry and lemongrass coulis. Inamo combines futuristic technology which would rival the Starship Enterprise and the very best of fine dining. It’s a lot of fun and worth visiting. If this is the future were all in for a treat. Info: www.inamo-stjames.com For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

NEWS

RESTAURANT REVIEW

FOOD AND DRINK

Avista Lime rating: Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

‘This was a chance to taste high calibre, truly exquisite creations from the students that study under Le Cordon Bleu’. When you hear or read that something is established since a certain time then you can be sure you will be greeted with excellence. The prestigious culinary school Le Cordon Bleu is just such a place -established since 1895 with chains across the world I had the chance to taste the patisserie delights of the London branch situated just a few minutes’ walk from Bond Street. This was a chance to taste high calibre, truly exquisite creations from the students that study under Le Cordon Bleu.

With a significant programme teaching the culinary techniques of the exacting science that is patisserie we indulged in gastronomic palate explosions like: Galaxie – a rich raspberry Chocolate Mousse and Soleil Vert. Sitting at the table with the marketing manager from Le Cordon Bleu, Marie-Anne, she told me that the head chef had taught some 8000 pupils and that at least one of her pupils is in every Michelin Star restaurant certainly in the UK. It is no wonder such a statistics exist. Afternoon Tea was rich with staff and young chefs alike pleasant and keen for you to taste EVERYTHING. Le Cordon Bleu’s Afternoon Tea is a great place to check out the patisserie chefs of the future and indeed a great place to get high on sugar. Info: The Mandeville Hotel, Mandeville Place, London, W1U 2BE

FOOD AND DRINK

Lime Afternoon tea review: High Tea with Le Cordon Bleu Lime rating: Words: Semper Azeez-Harris

Spice Market, W Hotel, London Lime rating: Words: Sophia A Jackson

NEWS

Immersed in the creative juices of Hoxton mixologist and entrepreneur Gerry Calabrese had the idea of recreating the classic drink ‘Gin’ whilst creating a fun brand that is like no other on the current market. A gin that is smooth, easy and different from the rest. A gin with a juniper driven character distilled with the exotic tones and sourced using the finest natural and ethically sourced ingredients including; Coconut, Grapefruit, Juniper, Iris, Tarragon and Ginger. A gin that opens up a whole new world of drinking and cocktail possibilities. Info: www.hoxtongin.com | www.thehoxtonpony. com

South East Asian inspired restaurant Spice Market which opened earlier this year, is located in London’s ‘Lunch almost newest celebrity haunt, turned to dinner The W Hotel. It is the as we devoured sister restaurant of Spice dish after Market New York and delicious dish’ headed by internationally renowned chef JeanGeorges Vongerichten Peas and Aromatic Spices – simple yet who has no less than three Michelin-stars. effective; the fresh flavour of the crab My guest and I wiled away the hours left a lasting impression on our taste as lunch almost turned to dinner as we buds. The salmon with turmeric and devoured dish after delicious dish. We peanut broth was a vision of vibrant sipped the Ginger Margherita – which yellow, orange and green colours with temporarily transported us to sunnier delicious flavourings to match. Our side climes. The 2006 Riesling was the ideal dish, was the ginger fried rice, served accompaniment for spicy aromatic foods with a raw yolk that when mixed is followed by the Sauvignon Blanc which cooked from the heat of the rice – more was fresh, zesty and cleansing on the delicious than it sounds. And finally, the palette. The first of many sumptuous Passion Fruit, mango sorbet was zingy dishes was the Shaved Tuna, Chilli and refreshing and the Thai Jewels and Tapioca Asian Pear and Lime which had Fruits with Crushed Coconut Ice was a a delicate taste. This was followed by taste of childhood jelly sweets yet light the Sea bass sashimi - perfectly balanced and moreish. You’re missing out on one of with the pistachio and mint. Next up London’s finest dining experiences if you was the Black pepper shrimp, sun dried haven’t tried Spice Market London. pineapple although describing it as spicy Info: www.spicemarketlondon.co.uk is an understatement, the sweet pineapple | Spice Market, W London – Leicester diffuses any excess heat. For mains, the Square, 10 Wardour Street London W1D Light, fluffy Spiced Chicken Samosas 6QF with the Coriander Yogurt, followed by Crab Dumplings with Sugar Snap

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Renowned mixologist Gerry Calabrese Launches Hoxton Gin

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

‘Vegetarians are well catered for, and the meat dishes are varied enough to keep you coming back for more’.

varied enough to keep you coming back for more. The lunch and supper menus are good value, but the real treat here is the fantastic Brunch menu (served between 12pm-4pm) which we would recommend everyone try at least once.

Conveniently located no more than a minute away from Kentish Town station, this charming little eatery offers a great menu at a very reasonable price. It sneaks up on you from the main road, but once inside the pleasant décor and helpful staff make for a great dining experience that could well be worth a visit if you want to escape from the overpriced alternatives in Central London. Although there is nothing too experimental on the menu, what the Kentish Canteen does, it does well. From the tasty selection of salads and starters to the wholesome main menu, there is something for everyone here. Vegetarians are well catered for, and the meat dishes are

The desserts are kept basic, and the portions quite small, although the delicious Chocolate Pot was so rich that you might want to share that between two. The set-up within the restaurant is actually good for small groups, couples or even dining alone. We suspect it would be a stretch for any party numbering more than four but we’re sure the staff would be happy to accommodate as best they can. Overall the Kentish Canteen offers a great escape from the high prices of Soho, and if you have some time to spare for a filling Brunch or hearty lunch/supper we recommend this as a riskfree choice. Info: www.kentishcanteen. co.uk

RESTAURANT REVIEW

FOOD AND DRINK

Kentish Canteen Lime rating: Words: Cassam Looch

KETS IN TIC W N O TITI COMPE

Win tickets to Taste of London – the most stylish food event of the summer! Taste of London, in partnership with British Airways, is offering two lucky readers and a friend the chance to experience the capital’s most indulgent restaurant festival. Celebrating what is arguably its best line-up to date, Taste of London returns to Regent’s Park from 16th – 19th June, bringing together 40 of London’s top restaurants. Newcomers Scott’s, Le Caprice, Petrus, Skylon, Gauthier Soho and Bocca di Lupo / Gelupo will be joining the ranks of returning favourites such as Le Gavroche, Rhodes 24 and Benares – each preparing delicious signature dishes for you to taste. Visitors will also be invited to try and buy from hundreds of speciality food and drink producers, enjoy fine wine tasting and watch some of the

world’s greatest chefs demonstrate their skills live on stage at the AEG Taste Theatre. Tristan Welch, Gary Rhodes, Jason Atherton and Nuno Mendes are just a few names taking centre stage across the four days. Info: www.tastefestivals. com/london To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question: Where will this year’s Taste of London be taking place? [A] Regent’s Park [B] Hyde Park [C] South Bank To enter, email competition@comelime. com with Taste of London in the subject header by June 8, 2011. Please include your full name and contact number. Tickets are for the evening of Thursday 16 June.

Benares pop-up at Meza – extended to early July

10 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Wardour Street. Due to popular demand, the pop up has now been extended until July 3, 2011. The modern grill menu at Meza has been replaced by some of Kochhar’s inspiring Benares dishes

and some new and exciting examples of his modern British Indian cuisine. The relaxed menu offers sharing platters and Indian street food for lunch or dinner. Sample dishes include: Rajasthani

crisp okra with harrisa mayonnaise; and Goan goat koftas with lavender and peanut honey. Info: www. benaresrestaurant.co.uk | www.meza-bar.co.uk

NEWS

Atul Kochhar of Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Benares in Mayfair, has brought his contemporary British Indian cuisine to Soho with the launch of a popup restaurant at Meza in

Jun Natural Hair in the Work Place and Makeup Tutorial

Stuck for hairstyles suitable for the work place? Looking for that professional natural look? Why not join us for an afternoon of learning how to create simple yet beautiful styles that can be done on your own at home. Complete the look with a makeup tutorial session using natural mineral makeup and have a go at experimenting with different colours before choosing your makeup package. Light refreshments will be provided. - Hairstyle demonstrations will be led by Michelle Olorunda - Makeup session will be led by Makeup Artist Liz Legunsen Info: 2-6pm | Noon Etienne Salon, 5 Bloomsbury

Assembly against Racism and Merlin Emmanuel. Info: Men’s t-shirts | http://thtc.co.uk/smileyculture Info: Ladies t-shirts | http://thtc.co.uk/smileyculture-0 Street, WC1B 3BQ | www.naturallynubian01. blogspot.com

Jun Sisters who lock annual social gathering As well as hair care, products and an abundance of lock styles to see, there will be various cultural stalls, including Coco Palms. Sisterlocks products will also be on sale. This will also be a good opportunity for anyone thinking about starting sisterlocks to see them in their abundance, ask questions and share the experience of other sisterlocks wearers. Info: 4-10pm | Welbourne Centre, Chestnut Road, London N17 9EU | Judy 07950 703 789 | Liz Joseph on 07956 346 385

Jun | 1 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

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If you’ve got a spare £150 then why not take a walk down to Harley street and sample the lifestyle of the rich and famous? It was my first time in Harley Street and my first experience of Dr Ariel Haus, who is an expert in anti-ageing and skin treatment procedures. I was greeted by Dr Haus. He carried out an examination of my skin which he deduced was normal and oily and the treatment began. First he started by removing all the dirt and oil from my skin with alcohol, next came the acidic solution which was explained will be very mild but would burn. Then a product called Thermal Water, which contains minerals and antioxidants, was applied and this brought much relief. He

MEN concluded with a face rub with a special blend of moisturiser and Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. At £150 I must admit I expected the effects of wrinkle free youth to last longer than seven days. However, if you’ve got an important event coming up and you want to look your best then this will certainly do the trick. Info: Dr Ariel Haus 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF | www. drhausdermatology.com

Body Gossip© joins Gok Wan as he storms Parliament campaigning for Body Confidence on the Curriculum

Gok Wan and a team of Body Gok Wan with Body Gossip’s Ruth Confidence Rogers and Natasha Devon Experts, including Body Gossip’s throughout the country Ruth Rogers and to dedicate one hour per Natasha Devon, taught year to body confidence the largest ever body lessons. Highlights from confidence lesson to a class the day will be shown of more than 120 pupils in Gok’s forthcoming from throughout the UK documentary Gok’s Teens, on May 13, 2011. Gok and which will be aired this his team then stormed summer on Channel 4. parliament and presented Info: www.bodygossip. a speech to a group of com/confidence MPs, asking for schools LIME MAGAZINE 2011

NEWS

Eco Fashion pioneers THTC have produced 500 organic t-shirts for the family of Smiley Culture who died from a knife in the heart on 15th March during a police raid on his home in Warlingham, Surrey. For more information please join the Campaign For Justice for Smiley Culture on Facebook. This is the official campaign page, set up by Lee Jasper, Secretary, National

FASHION/BEAUTY

Lime grooming review: Dr Ariel Haus treatment Words: Gavin Adams

THTC and the Campaign for Justice for Smiley Culture / collaborative T-Shirts‫‏‬

FASHION/BEAUTY

Fashion designer Gavin Douglas has built a reputation in creating exquisite bespoke designs for women. Lime caught up with him. WORDS: Jennifer rock

Ibut if you want to get

GAVIN Douglas

From the Gavin Douglas Spring Summer 2011 collection

t might sound clichéd

ahead, you have to make it happen. From an early age Gavin Douglas knew he had found his calling into the world of fashion and today his label is fast becoming a formidable name in the industry. What drove you towards fashion design? I’ve been creative ever since I was young. I remember enjoying being involved in artistic activities. In high school I realised that my career definitely had to be in an area of design. I did a BTEC National Diploma in Design where I decided I wanted to be a fashion designer. After college I went to university and graduated with a BA (Hons) degree in Fashion Design. How did you go about setting up your label? I originally set up my label with assistance from the Prince’s Trust. I sold a small selection of skirts, 12 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

jackets and tops across small boutiques in London and Birmingham. Where does your inspiration come from? I draw my inspiration from lots of different things. I generally use subject areas that I’d like to learn more about or find interesting and inspirational. My latest collection for Spring / Summer 2011 looked at the biblical river, the river Pison and the essence of the new life it created to draw inspiration. Why did you solely decide upon a women’s fashion label? I feel that I can be much more creative and experimental with female silhouettes, cuts and designs, although men have become a lot more open minded in terms of what they wear. My degree specialised in women’s wear, so I felt it wise to continue in this path. Did you come up against any barriers?

Yes, fashion isn’t the easiest of industries to be involved in. As with most industries you’ll come across barriers that will make things difficult, but as easy as those barriers are put up, they can be taken down. You have had some famed individuals such as Laura Michelle Kelly and singer Kelly Rowland don your garments, how does that make you feel? It’s great seeing women enjoying pieces that I’ve created. I’ve met Kelly Rowland several times and she’s a great person. Have you ever put a collection together for men? I do get asked this a lot. I have no immediate plans to do a menswear line as yet but I sometimes do one-off pieces. With reports of rising crime in the UK, how important is it for young men to have positive role models?

I think it’s extremely important for young men to have a positive role model. It’s important for them to be able to identify an individual that has achieved positive things within their own life that they can relate to and maybe aspire to be like. What advice would you give young men wanting to enter this field? It takes a lot of hard work, commitment and time to create a successful career from fashion design and you should always be prepared to dedicate these factors into the career. It becomes your life! Get as much work experience as possible and build up a strong CV/portfolio. Do you have a signature style? Gavin Douglas collections have become synonymous with luxurious high glamour aesthetics. I use feminine shapes to recreate harder edged and more attitude-heavy

Can you describe what it is like behind closed doors for a typical show / fashion week? Yes, there’s a lot of preparation involved when creating a collection and preparing to produce a catwalk show. Models, castings, invites, music, location, venue, hair stylists, make-up artists, dressers, general styling. The list goes on and on. As a young male designer, what are your thoughts on the size 0 debate? I think people in general should eat healthily and exercise regularly to help maintain a healthy life style and diet.

Vanessa R Williams with Gavin Douglas at Caribbean Fashion Week 2008

FASHION/BEAUTY

incarnations. Luxurious fabrics are pleated and draped by hand into sensual blouses and dresses, which have become the aesthetics of the brand. My line is for women who don’t follow trends from season to season. I design for women who are in touch with fashion and aspire for unique, innovative and creative pieces.

UK singer Estelle wearing a Gavin Douglas number

also like to wear vintage tailored jackets.

You have achieved some impressive accolades, what projects are you working on now and in the future? I’ll be working closely with Pulse Investments LTD to produce a Young Designer Award. The aim of the award will be to encourage creativity, confidence and the pursuit of excellence in young people through design. I also have several exciting new projects that will be revealed during this summer.

showcase collections in Paris, New York, Detroit, Jamaica, and Barbados amongst others. I’ve also worked alongside the couture designer Elie Saab in his couture atelier in Lebanon.

Does this field of work allow you to do a lot of travelling? Yes, I have been fortunate in being able to travel and

What designers are in your wardrobe? I tend to have a lot of printed casual tees by upcoming designers. I

I design for women who are in touch with fashion and aspire for unique, innovative and creative pieces

Which fashion designers do you admire? I admire the work of Charles Frederick Worth. Worth was the founder of Paris Haute Couture. He was an extremely talented designer with a savvy head for business; his fashion empire spanned the nineteenth century. He was innovative in using the technology of the industrial era to transform the decoration of women from a cottage-based craft into a major industry.

MEN What three men have had a remarkable impact on your life? My dad, big brother and both of my grandfathers. All Gavin Douglas garments are bespoke, hand-made pieces created privately for clients. Please contact info@ gavindouglasfashion.com for more information. LIME MAGAZINE 2011

GALLERY

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH

-24 Jun Noire A collection of artistic nudes of African and Caribbean women by blackartnudes. Blackartnudes is the UK’s first fully online gallery and website dedicated to artistic nudes of women from African and Caribbean origin. Created by self taught London based photographer Jason Grant, blackartnudes is a collection of bold, sensual,

– 30 Jun Escape, Discover, Illuminate

Group shows typically encompass a range of creative styles and influences under one synonymous umbrella. arc Gallery presents Escape, Discover, Illuminate, an exhibition by a collective of Haringey-based visual artists, who are truly culturally diverse and distinctively broad in creative approaches, yet coincide in subject matter. Subtle political consciousness, the powers of nature and elements of religiosity and journeys meet with individual methodologies. Info: arc Gallery: Barge Belle, 11 Hale Wharf Ferry Lane, London N17 9NF | www.artarc-collective.com

14 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

provocative, captivating and alluring images. Photo prints, a coffee table book and an artistic nude boudior service, blackartnudes is the outlet for creative, subtle, provocative and bold art nude images. Info: Gallery 1885, The Camera Club, 16 Bowden Street, London SE11 4DS | www.blackartnudes. co.uk | www.twitter.com/ blackartnudesuk

– 22 Jun Mohammed Joha’s Dream in Black and White Dream in Black and White is a series of paintings, collages on paper, land art photographs and an installation composed of six handmade dolls. The work takes its inspiration from the many children in today’s world who have lost their freedom and fundamental rights. Specifically, Joha draws on the experiences of children in Palestine where, in 2010, there were over 1,000 children under the age of 17 imprisoned in Jerusalem. He argues that these children are trapped by occupation, war, persecution, and pressure to accept their current conditions. His depiction of children as large dolls, held by many strings, symbolises the way in which they are psychologically and socially constrained, marginalised and exploited as innocent victims of conflict. Info: The Mosaic Rooms, 226 Cromwell Road, London, SW5 0SW | www. mosaicrooms.org

-09 Jun Pinta – Latin American art show Following a successful first year in London in 2010, PINTA, the Latin American Art Show is returning to Earls Court Exhibition Centre this June to present the very best in modern and contemporary Latin American art. Launched in New York City in 2007, PINTA has become the annual meeting place for Latin American Art. In June 2011, PINTA will bring to London over fifty galleries from the Americas and Europe including Guillermo de Osma Galería and Distrito 4 from Madrid; Maddox Arts from London; Ruth Benzacar Galería de Arte from Buenos Aires; LucIa de la Puente from Peru, Galería Enrique Guerrero from Mexico, Galeria Nara Roesler from São Paulo, Aninat Isabel from Santiago, Chile and Durban Segnini and Sammer Gallery from Miami. Info: Earls Court Exhibition Centre | www. pintaart.com

til 11 Jun Walking Drawings Across the Estuaries A film and photography exhibition showcasing the landmark public art installation by artist Evewright, which took place on Silecroft Beach in Cumbria last year. Walking Drawings are a series of live public art installations by London based artist Evewright. Over the last six years he has been creating largescale drawings, using selected ‘sandscapes’ along the British coastline as his canvas. Using landscape tools and an old -fashioned tractor, Evewright creates his drawings in the sand and then invites members of the public to walk the lines in various formats. Info: Wed- Sat 1pm - 6pm | Four Corners Film, 121 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 OQN | www.evewrightstudio.com

til 3 Jul Afghanistan – Crossroads of the ancient world Surviving treasures from the National Museum of Afghanistan - nearly lost during the years of civil war and Taliban rule, these surviving treasures reveal Afghanistan’s ancient culture, its immense fragility and its remarkable place in world history. Info: British Museum | www.britishmuseum.org

til 17 Jul Figures and Fictions: Contemporary South African Photography

This exhibition presents the vibrant and sophisticated photographic culture that has emerged in postapartheid 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 politically-engaged 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

things get a little too hot for him in New York, good-looking, charismatic hustler Pharus escapes the clutches of rap star Jules and moves to London, where he sets up an escort business under the guise of a model agency. American Trade is a funny, uncompromising and outspoken play about survival, which challenges assumptions about racial and sexual identity. Info: Hampstead Theatre, Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage, London NW3 3EU | www.hampsteadtheatre. com

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

Jun Happy Soul Festival: The Patient by Segun Akingbola + Q&A with director Fraser Ayres by Sophia A Jackson, editor/founder Afridiziak Theatre News The Patient

“Memory is a strange creature – Isn’t she?” Somewhere off the coast of England, a patient who has been convicted of killing his wife and child is being treated in a secure psychiatric unit. A doctor and patient unravel a harrowing history and shocking truth that unites them forever. A modern, psychological stage production that deals with identity. Produced by TriForce Promotions Info: 7pm | Lost Theatre, 208 Wandsworth Road, SW8 2JU | www.happysoulfestival. co.uk/

Jun A gala evening with Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka – discussing culture and politics at the Southbank Centre in benefit of London

Chuck Mike with Professor Wole Soyinka

theatre company Collective Artistes Professor Wole Soyinka, one of the world’s most renowned poets and playwrights and winner of the 1986 Nobel Prize for Literature, will discuss his life in culture and politics with Southbank Centres’ Artistic Director Jude Kelly OBE in a special benefit for Collective Artistes. Both Wole Soyinka and Jude Kelly are patrons of Collective Artistes (CA), a London-based professional theatre company that produces and tours plays from the African Diaspora. CA Artistic Director, Chuck Mike, honed his theatre skills under Soyinka’s tutelage and has been a long-term working associate with him in Nigeria. Wole Soyinka is donating his participation in this event to benefit Collective Artistes and says of their work, “Collective Artistes is a theatre company that not only serves community but IS community. This has remained the creative ethos of the Collective Artistes ensemble.” Info: 7.45pm, Southbank Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall Purcell Room | www.southbankcentre. co.uk | www. collectiveartistes.co.uk

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THEATRE

In association with

– 18 Jun American Trade American Trade, which rounds off the RSC’s season of world premiere’s at Hampstead Theatre, is a feisty new play by the RSC’s Playwright in Residence, the multi award-winning Tarell Alvin McCraney. When

– 26 Jun Where the Flowers Grow by Mark Norfolk Having recently moved to the suburbs with his wife and teenage son, Vernon Cumberbatch now finds his job under threat as the insurance company he works for is about to be bought out by a rival firm. In the furore of the takeover, one of Vernon’s

Sadler's Wells presents a Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter & Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, Ruth and Stephen Hendel, FELA Broadway LLC and CAMI Spectrum in association with the National Theatre production

�� “THE DANCING IS ECSTATIC, THE MUSIC LIFTS THE SPIRITS, AND THE STAGE IS ALIVE WITH MOVEMENT” THE GUARDIAN

Wed 20 July Sun 28 August LIME MAGAZINE 2011

The Disenchanted

THEATRE

Wof Knock Down ritten by author

Ginger and Naked Soldiers Mark Norfolk’s latest play Where the Flowers Grow tells the story of Vernon who has fulfilled his ambitions - he has a good job and a cosy lifestyle with his loving wife and teenage son. But things change when his job comes under threat and a tragedy at work forces him to evaluate his priorities in all aspects of his life. The cast includes Roderick Burrows, Ashley Gerlach Jodyanne Richardson and is directed by Jeffery Kissoon, designed by Heike Scharrer with lighting by Sherry Coenen.

Jeffery Kissoon and Mark Norfolk in rehearsals for Where the Flowers Grow

We caught up with Mark Norfolk to discuss the world premiere of his latest production, Where the Flowers Grow which will be at the Warehouse Theatre this month. WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

What does the title for your latest play mean – Where the Flowers Grow? The title suggests a kind of Utopia, a place where there is peace and tranquility. What was the inspiration for the play? The inspiration started about four years ago when I began exploring why teenagers who supposedly had everything were becoming disenchanted with life. I discovered that there was a disconnect between the new brand of young people and the adult world. Teenagers had everything, had done everything, knew everything and were left with the question: “Is that it?” There appeared to be nothing more for them to experience that would eclipse what they 16 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

had already experienced. I was fascinated by this and began looking at how this affects the family and the world we live in. Suicide is a sensitive subject matter – how do you research that part of the play? I may have already part answered this question but I began researching news media, past newspapers and spoke to people I know who have experienced this type of event. At the time of writing I was also working as a writer in residence in a prison which gave valuable insight. Prisons tend to have an extraordinary rate of suicide and suicide attempts and I spoke and taught a number of young men who had experienced this phenomenon for one reason or another.

The play also deals with the pressure of living with guilt; whether it’s your fault or not. What event from your past has riddled you with guilt? I’m not sure an event from my past has riddled me with guilt but I can certainly appreciate people who may have a traumatic event that they feel partly responsible for. For example, I worked with one guy who had been working in a shop on the day of the July bombings. He had gone out into the streets to help people, at one stage heroically helping a man who had had his legs blown off. He was Asian and received a lot of plaudits and commendations afterwards from the press, his colleagues and friends. But within a year things began to go wrong. He

was turning up late and appeared distant to his work colleagues who hitherto had heralded him as a hero. He was eventually sacked form his job, couldn’t get other work and ended up stealing food from a store. He was convicted and sent to prison. He was clearly suffering from a form of guilt and post traumatic stress which had gone totally untreated. In speaking to him I found he was struggling to deal with being seen as a hero on a Monday then being scrutinised as a possible terrorist suspect on a Wednesday. Resentment and mistrust eventually gave way to a surliness which ultimately led to him being behind bars. Personally, how has the Internet changed the way you communicate? The internet has changed everything about the way we communicate. People expect everything to be done by electronic mail. On the one hand it’s a fantastic way to send information almost instantaneously. However,

THEATRE Mark Norfolk on the set of Ham and the Piper

the problem I have with email and the internet is that it has removed all forms of scrutiny. People’s written emails and much of internet data is uncorroborated and almost by habit these days, badly written. What is your favourite method of communication? My favourite method of communication is face to face. I want to look someone in the eye when they tell me that the world is going to end. Failing that, the telephone and then of course, letters. How do you think the medium of theatre helps in terms of communicating messages to audiences as a vehicle for social change? Theatre is, and always has been a fantastically effective way of communicating ideas to audiences. When people go to the theatre there is an unwritten, tacit agreement that primeval communication between humans will take place. The actors are live and are bringing the written word to life. Nothing beats it. Films and TV are great but the experience of live theatre is unforgettable as each and every show has

its own dynamic. You’re working with Jeffery Kissoon again who is director of the play. How did you two start working together initially? A play of mine called Knock Down Ginger was an official selection in the International Playwriting Festival at the Warehouse Theatre in 2002. An extract of the play was to be performed and Jeffery Kissoon was selected as director. We met and immediately hit it off. I’d seen Jeffery on stage as an actor while I was at drama school many years ago and I’d also seen him on TV as one of the main teachers on Grange Hill and various other shows. When I graduated from college I saw him in a Talawa play called The Gods Are Not To Blame at the Riverside Studios, I think this was 1991. He gave a stunning performance in a fantastic play. I’d rushed to meet him backstage but he was mobbed by adoring fans

and shuffled off into the night. So it was a great honour and probably fate that I was sent to meet him when my play was selected. Since then of course he’s directed four of my plays. He has a wonderful eye for dramatic detail and is the most talented, yet underused actor in this country. Knowledge is power: what advice would you give to someone who aspires to be a playwright? The main thing I always say to prospective playwrights is to know your craft. You wouldn’t expect a plumber to come and fix your washing machine if he or she didn’t know what they were doing, so a writer too has to earn the moniker. Read as many plays as possible. Go to see as many plays as possible. Try to think about what makes one play stand out more than another. Ask yourself why a theatre might decide to produce one play over another. And above all keep writing. What’s your next project? My next project has just been completed, a feature film I’ve been working on for over a year called Ham & The Piper. It stars Jeffery Kissoon and we have

recently been previewing to great responses. Look out for it late 2011, early 2012 or check out the details on www. hamandthepiper.com. I am also involved in co-writing a couple of projects, a play about international governance and a feature film thriller.

MEN What three men have had a remarkable impact on your life? Muhammad Ali, a man who reached the top professionally and socially yet always remained true to himself and the people. Denzel Washington, a powerful and extremely talented movie star and actor who continually allows his work to do his talking. My Granddad, who came to this country, leaving behind a better lifestyle all for want of expanding his knowledge of the world. Although bruised by the social upheaval, he never complained and always had a spring in his step. Info: Where the Flowers Grow is at the Warehouse Theatre from 3-26 June | www.warehousetheatre. co.uk LIME MAGAZINE 2011

THEATRE

Little Baby Jesus

Ano introduction.

rinze Kene needs

Most famously known as Connor from EastEnders the award-winning and talented writer, actor and director was a member of the Young Writers’ Programme at the Royal Court Theatre and recently invited onto the Soho Theatre’s Young Writers Group. He is currently part of the writing team on E20 for Eastenders/BBC and just picked up the award for Promising Playwright at the Off West End Theatre Awards, 2011. His latest creation Little Baby Jesus – a lyrical triptych of monologues revealing the inter-connected lives of three inner-city teenagers – opens at the Oval Theatre this week. How would you describe Little Baby Jesus? I would describe it as an innocent play that says something else about young people and what we go through when we are growing up. I was inspired by actual events in my life and I wanted to write the feeling of growing up and the feeling of having something happen to you and how you react to it and are forced to grow up; so all of the characters in the play have been forced to grow up quickly.

And how did you come up with the name Little Baby Jesus? I just thought it up. I wrote the play, which I wrote back to front and when I was done there was this theme that kept running through it and it was kind of about people killing their future, unknowingly. That was one of the themes that ran through it and there are also loads of references to Christianity so I just thought about the name and it was the perfect fit. The play has previously been featured as part of the First Bites season last year at Oval Theatre – how has it developed between now and then? First Bites was really good; it’s always good to hear how your play sounds and especially in front of an audience before everyone sees it. This time round, I’ve intertwined the stories quite a bit and with the monologues, certain bits were too long so I have made cuts where appropriate and just really tightened it up and done a big polish while I could still hear the voices in my head.

Words: Karla Williams

Arinze Kene courtesy of steverutherford.co.uk

It is riddled within the text but because of its monologue structure – the play is direct address – you will get it, but it is performed in a different way. Why should people come to see Little Baby Jesus? Not to toot my own horn, but it’s very entertaining, it’s a good play and you will enjoy it. You will be educated into a world which you possibly didn’t know before and there are some wonderful actors involved and it’s directed by Che Walker. I always try and write things that I would like to go and see Little Baby Jesus is one of the plays I wanted to write from the start of my career.

MEN You were awarded Most Promising New Playwright at the OFFIES 2011 [Off West End Theatre Awards] –

how do you feel about your win? I feel good! To tell you the truth, I didn’t know I was going to win and I was just happy with being nominated; I was like, ‘that’s wonderful, we are getting recognition now’. And then we won! It means a lot to me because we couldn’t really get anyone to put Estate Walls on so we had to create our own company to do it – then the play wins an award. So it goes to show that sometimes people don’t know what an audience wants to see and a lot of people wanted to see Estate Walls on and even people that missed it still want to see it and they want to see it now – it’s just great to get an opportunity to do that. Info: Little Baby Jesus runs until the 15th June 2011 at the Oval House Theatre | www.ovalhouse.com Printed courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News: www. afridiziak.com

And will the poetry and lyricism that we saw in Estate Walls also be present in this play?

18 LIME MAGAZINE 2011 Che Walker is the director of Little Baby Jesus

-11 Jun Wo)Men and Me An Exploration of Masculinity, Femininity & The Male Body By Tonny A

Growing up in 70’s Paris, a black boy born with no forearms (Thalidomide) and unsure of my sexuality, I was totally aware of difference. Constant external comments and internal feelings, most of the memory of this experience was lost through repression. It was Hell.’ Given this lost boyhood it is not surprising that the grown up Director/

Dancer, Performer Tonny A should be producing this new double bill which look at defining and redefining masculinity, his previous work having already included examining constructs of the perfect male body. Women in Me is Tonny A‘s attempt to understand how he can access the feminine within himself through dances lead by female singers’ voices. Allowing his body to be danced by their voices rather than moving in choreographic ways along these women’s songs, Tonny A undergoes a series of transformations as his personality fluctuates amid internal feelings of anger, sensuality and compassion found in the aggressive, seductive and introspective rhythms of the singers’ music. Info: 8pm | Blue Elephant Theatre, 59a Bethwin Rd, Camberwell, London, SE5 0XT (entrance on Thompson Ave) | www. blueelephanttheatre.co.uk

Jun – 2 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

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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

til 15 June Little Baby Jesus By Arinze Kene, directed by Ché Walker

make a lot of money by acting as a go-between for foreign journalists and local groups. But as more players get involved, the stakes get higher and the risks get bigger. Set in northern Nigeria against a backdrop of global turmoil and corruption, Fixer is a fast-paced drama that asks questions about journalistic integrity, loyalty and the price of human life. Info: 7.45pm | Oval House Theatre, 52-54, Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW | www.ovalhouse.com

THEATRE

trusted colleagues is made redundant and Vernon offered his job. Later, however his colleague commits suicide and the guilt surrounding his friend’s death spills over into Vernon’s own family life when he begins to suspect that his own son has been visiting suicide websites. As events unfold Vernon is forced to create a virtual online identity in an effort to save his son bringing to the fore hidden details of a past episode linked to his wife’s long term battle with depression. Where The Flowers Grow is an intricate exploration of a contemporary suburban family attempting to survive in a post-modern, technological age. Info: Warehouse Theatre, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2NF | www. warehousetheatre.co.uk

Little Baby Jesus is a lyrical triptych of monologues revealing the inter-connected lives of three inner-city teenagers, capturing the exact moment each becomes an adult. Three magnetic personalities are brought to life through the imagination of Arinze Kene, author of the acclaimed sell-out play, Estate Walls and nominee for Most Promising New Playwright and Best New Play (Estate Walls) at this year’s Off West End Theatre Awards. Little Baby Jesus is the recipient of the Mark Marvin Rent Subsidy Award. Arinze Kene is also an actor and currently plays ‘Connor Stanley’ in EastEnders. Info: 7:45pm | Oval House Theatre, 52-54, Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW | www.ovalhouse.com

June – 10 July Fixer By Lydia Adetunji, directed Dan Barnard and Rachel Briscoe When militants attack a new oil pipeline, British journalists and international spin doctors rush to the scene: everyone wants the inside story. Chuks, a fixer, could

til 03 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 that have lit its way over generations. Info: 7:30pm | Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London WC2 | www. sadlerswells.com

HEADS UP

Jul - 28 Aug 2011 FELA! FELA! tells the true story of the legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, whose blend of jazz, funk and African rhythms ignited a generation. Combining dance, theatre and music, FELA! reveals Kuti’s controversial life as an artist and political activist in rousing fashion. Featuring many of his best known songs, this limited run will also star Sahr Ngaujah, who has blown critics away with his magnetic performances in New York and London. Info: Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN | www.sadlerswells.com LIME MAGAZINE 2011

MUSIC

ery Thursday Hip Hop Karaoke Celebrating five Years of HHK, now every week at The Social. Putting a fresh twist on the ancient art of karaoke, Hip-Hop Karaoke lets you get on the mic and act out your rap fantasies to the fullest. A legendary night out. Info: 6pm-1am |The Social, 5 Little Portland St, London | www.thesocial. com

ery Sunday Ace and Vis present Sunday Night Live Sunday Night Live at Aquum, has quickly established itself as one of the best new live nights in London. Held every Sunday with a full live band, SNL plays host to a roster of the UK’s top acts, celebrities and industry professionals. Info: 8pm-3am | Aquum, 68 Clapham High St London SW4 7UL| www. sundaynightlive.co.uk

om 01 Jun British Black Music Month 2011 kicks off BBMM2011 underscores 30 years of British inner-city uprisings and the UN declaration of the year of people of African descent, by adding activism and Africa sub-themes to this year’s events. The month, which stretches into midJuly, includes seminars: Managing Song Rights & Income Streams on June 8, Niche Genres: Surviving As An Indie Record Company on June 24 and Talking Copyright: What’s All The Fuss? on June 24; courses: Music Biz Empowerment Monday Half-Day Courses and Making Sense Of How The Music Industry Works & Preparing A Music Business Plan Workshop; and discussions: Liz Mitchell: From Brent To The Top Of The Music World With Boney M on June 30 and Where Is Africa In Words, Music &

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Politics? on July 8. Info: www. britishblackmusic.com

Jun Rakim In the history of hip-hop, few artists have had as great an impact on the art form’s lyrical style as Rakim. Universally referenced as one of the Masters of the Microphone and an influence and inspiration to his peers and followers alike, Rakim first exploded onto the scene with the iconic Eric B. is President in 1986 with long time collaborator Eric B. The single marked a turning point in the rap world – raising the bar for future emcees and revolutionizing the way rhymes are delivered to this day. Rakim Allah continues to lead where others just follow. Info: 7pm | Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, London, NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe.co.uk

Jun UK Soul Jam with Jazz Ellington + Selina Campbell and more… The original UK soul show returns headed by one of its favourite acts Jaz Ellington – the soulful teacher from south London who’s live shows are always intense in the way classic soul, gospel should be. Also live Selina Campbell from Soul Heaven records bringing a Neo Soulful House, Joseph Junior bringing a rare, mature male voice to UK NeoSoul. Info: 7pm | Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, London, NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe.co.uk

REMARKABLE MEN TRIBUTE 1949 – 2011 Gil Scott-Heron Words: Nicke Adebowale The word icon is often used these days but it barely begins to sum up the life and work of Gil Scott-Heron. Born in Chicago in 1949 the son of a Jamaican footballer who was the first black man to play for Glasgow Celtic, he influenced a generation. He disapproved of the title of Godfather of rap and instead referred to his music as “bluesology”. His influence on modern hip hop is clear, Kanye West is a long time fan and sampled him on his last albulm. Chuck D [@ influence that eventually propelled them into the limelight – A Tribe Called Quest. Slum’s sixth album, Villa Manifesto, is a selfexploration as well. It been a tumultuous few years for the group, riddled with death and defections Elzhi’s departing to pursue his solo career Manifesto, oddly enough, functions as both a reunion and a memorial album. Info: 7pm | Jazz Café, 5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe.co.uk

Jun Jamie Woon

Jun Slum Village at the Jazz Café Formed in the early 90s, Slum Village was a product of the same bubbling Motown hip hop community that spawned Eminem. Though the trio was raised on the Big Daddy Kane and Rakim era, it was the early cosignature of another

MEN mrchuckd] and Talib Kweli [@realtalibkweli] were quick to pay tribute to him on Twitter. He is survived by his wife Brenda and daughter Gia. blues ‘n’ garage infused future pop. A chance to hear his underground hits Night Air and Lady Luck live. Info: 7pm | 02 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London | www.livenation.co.uk

-16 Jun Angie Stone For three decades, vocalist Angie Stone has been surprising audiences, critics, peers and the music industry itself. Her new album’s title, Unexpected, (her second for the legendary soul music label Stax), a suggestion of surprise waiting within the album’s twelve tracks, comes with a double meaning. Without question, it’s a diverse mix of styles and colours, almost always upbeat and forward thinking. Info: 7pm | Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, London, NW1 7PG | www.jazzcafe.co.uk

19 Jamie Woon has carved his way out from the dubstep scene into the public consciousness with his

Jun Celebrating Sanctuary London 2011 The annual free festival which launches Refugee Week (20-26 June 2011), returns to the South Bank with a profusion

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

NEWS

Krar Collective will be at Celebrating Sanctuary at Womad [Image by Paul Sherratt]

of new talent, including the dazzling Krar Collective from Ethiopia, one-man folk orchestra Rory McLeod, young virtuoso vena player Hari Sivenesan, the glittering harp collaboration “Home is Where The Harp Is” and nu-skool Roma singer Kerieva. Info: 2-7pm | Bernie Spain Gardens, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 (adjacent to Oxo Tower Wharf) | www. refugeeweek.org.uk

Jun Diogo Nogueira Live in concert Having achieved incredible success since the release of his last album To Do My Part and a sold-out international tour, Diogo Nogueira returns to Guanabara London for an exclusive one night only performance. The son of Samba legend Joao Nogueira, Diogo, who grew up in the heart of Brazil, has carved out his own niche as the new samba king, nominated for a Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist since his 2007 debut. To get a real feel for Brazilian music see Diogo Nogueira Live at Guanabara for what is set to be an

/ 26 Jun Glee live in concert After mounting a live stage concert event that played to sold out crowds and great acclaim in four American cities last year, Twentieth Century Fox Television and Glee co-creator Ryan Murphy are proud to announce the Glee cast will travel to Europe to perform on the arena stages of London, Manchester and Dublin this June. Info: London o2 Arena | www.livenation.co.uk

Jun Tamikrest with guests Touring with their follow up to Adagh, out in April on Glitterhouse Records, The Local is proud to present Tamikrest. In Tamasheq language, Tamikrest means junction, connection, knot, or coalition. The group members come from different horizons (Mali, Niger, Algeria), and wanting to assume fully their Touareg identity, they found in the rebel music Ishumar the means to express it. Formed in 2006, Tamikrest are the spiritual sons of Tinariwen. Their hypnotic and intense tunes take the tradition of both Tamashek blues and rock music to the next level – just listen to their debut album. Info: 7pm | The Borderline, Orange Yard, off Manette Street, London, W1D 4JB

ICKETS WIN T N O I T I T COMPE

Jun DMC World 10 DJ Championship

Competition – London heats The DMC World DJ Championships is the most sought after title of the DJ world and Supa Dupa Fly & Jazz Café are delighted to be hosting the London heat. DMC World Champion DJ Ligone from France will be showcasing and judging and DMC’s host INJA will also be performing debut cuts from his long awaited solo album ‘Inja:Maker’. DMC World Champion 89 – Cutmaster Swift will also be spinning. There will also be a set from Dj Snips, one of London’s hottest hiphop party

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amazing concert. Info: 9 pm | Guanabara, Parker Street (Corner of Drury Lane), Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5PW | www.guanabara. co.uk

rockers. The DMC UK Final is Thursday 14th July @ London’s Scala. The winner from the UK Final will go through to the DMC World Final which will be held on 6th and 7th October @ Indig02, 02 Arena. Info: 7pm | Jazz Café 5 Parkway Camden N1 7PG | www. dmcdjchamps.com Lime magazine has two pairs of tickets to give away to the DMC World DJ Championship Competition – London heats at the Jazz Café, London. To enter, email competition@comelime. com with DMC in the subject header by June 7, 2011.

Diogo Nogueira 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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Secrets to keeping

the STONE rollin’

Raphael Saadiq talks to Lime about his new album.

TMarylebone Hotel is

WORDS: Alicia Adejobi

he lavish décor of the

the perfect setting to meet someone as talented as he is. Even more fittingly, Raphael Saadiq resembles a king sitting in his throne when I greet him in the Drawing Room. Dressed casually in a camel Leather jacket, polo neck jumper and blue jeans, Raphael is every inch as cool as he seems. But where do you even begin a conversation with someone who has been in the industry for almost three decades? Currently, the 44-year-old’s diary is booked solid with promotional appearances for his new album Stone Rollin’, which was released last month. The LP nods to his heroes such as Chuck Berry, Little Walter and of course Stevie Wonder, whilst blending in a contemporary twist. Raphael explains the new direction: “Stone Rollin’ has evolved a lot, it’s a cool departure from the last album. You know it gives people a taste of what I did last time but it’s also a lot edgier, louder and bluesier.” Raphael also reveals that he had a “whole lot more confidence” recording this album which made his vocals stronger. While the album pays tribute to his musical heroes, Raphael made sure “not to take what they did but just incorporate their level of 22 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

energy.” And there’s definitely a lot of energy oozing from ‘Stone Rollin’, which was produced using live instruments and live bands. “Every record is a challenge, but it’s more of a challenge when you bring musicians in because you have to come up with things on the spot or things ready when [the musicians] get there,” explains Raphael. “So if you’re just [playing the instruments] yourself, you can kind of beat up yourself and you know where you’re coming from.” But the ‘Radio’ crooner says he tries not to be too hard on himself. “I take everything in my

Do what you love, love music first and stay true to what you love. stride. But there are times when I’m hard on myself and I won’t like something, but then somebody else will like it,” he laughs. As Raphael said it himself, ‘Stone Rollin’ is a “cool departure” from his previous work, but does he ever worry that he’ll push the envelope too far? “No I don’t ever worry about that. You know, I

anymore. You know, I’m enjoying what I’m doing now – it was what it was,” he explains. “I’m just rocking a different outfit now. It’s a little easier working with a group; you know three people sharing the load is always easier. But I always welcome new challenges.”

“I only do it when I feel that it’s going to make a great record – if that’s what makes a great record and that’s what it needs then I will push it again.”

Raphael has worked with a whole range of artists including D’Angelo, Mary J Blige, TLC and John Legend. There aren’t that many people left to choose from, but if he could, who else would he want to work with? “I’d rather do what I’m doing but if someone is feeling what I’m doing or I meet someone and we have a good vibe, then you just end up doing it,” Raphael explains.

Raphael admits that his favourite track on the album is Good Man, the second single to be released from his fourth LP. Good Man tells the story of a man who surrounds himself with a negative lifestyle but underneath it all is a good man. For those who haven’t seen the music video, here’s a warning – it’s not entirely for the fainthearted. “I think everybody will be shocked by the video – my friends were really shocked.” This may be because Raphael usually comes across as a light, contented person and not somebody who you would associate with depressing

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only push the boundaries when necessary, I don’t just do it for the sake of doing it,” Raphael explains.

“But my ultimate collaboration will be Bill Withers.”

matters. So who came up with the concept of the dark video? “I came up with a lot of it. Obviously the story was my idea because of the song, but of course the video production team helped out. It was more of a collaboration between us. But I’m usually quite hands-on with making my videos.” Raphael – born

Charles Ray Wiggins - has come a long way from the early days of his career when he crooned on to the scene as a member of multiplatinum selling ‘80s group Tony! Toni! Tone! Once the group disbanded, Raphael went on to form popular r&b group Lucy Pearl which also featured Dawn Robinson from En Vogue and Ali Shaheed Muhammed of A Tribe Called Quest fame. So having been part of a selection of bands for over a decade, what has it been like for Raphael to go it alone? “I enjoy doing both. That was a specific time in my life, I’m not there

How has Raphael managed to sustain his success in the industry? “Do what you love, love music first and stay true to what you love.”

MEN What three remarkable men have had the biggest impact on your life and why? My father because he gave me the guidelines to what I need to do to make it. My uncle who was a musician and he took me around when he was playing. Lastly, Stevie Wonder. He was always in my house, it felt like he was part of the family even though he was only on the record player. Info: Stone Rollin’ is out now | www.raphaelsaadiq.com | www.twitter. com/rayraysaadiq LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Jun Alexis Jordan first UK headline tour With her previous two singles both entering the UK charts in the Top 10 – debut single Happiness at number three and follow-up Good Girl’ at number six – Hush Hush looks set to be another sure hit for the 19 year old with its euphoric dancefloorfilling beats and another insanely catchy chorus. The single comes backed with exclusive remixes by Tom Neville, Full Intention and Cahill. Info: London Scala, 275 Pentonville Road London N1 9NL | www. livenation.co.uk

Jun / 02-03 Jul Janet Jackson Number Ones; Up, Close, & Personal – World Tour This tour will differ from her previous 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

with flashes of star quality, to epic performances from Lovebox veterans and supercharged sets from global icons will all come alive in the dramatic backdrop of Victoria Park - Line-up: Snoop Dogg; Kelis; Groove Armada; Example, Roll Deep; Ms Dynamite and more... Info: www.lovebox.net

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

Oct Lenny Kravitz – Black and White Europe

One of the pre-eminent musicians of the last two decades, Lenny Kravitz has explored the influences of 60s and 70s soul, rock, and funk to

-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 Don’t miss Snoop Dogg at Lovebox hot new blood

24 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

/ 10 Nov BlackBerry presents Tinie Tempah w J. Cole Double Brit Award winner Tinie Tempah’s number one, debut album Discovery has sold over half a million copies to date. The album has also spawned two number one singles Pass Out (Platinum) and Written in the Stars (Gold). As well as his arena tour later in the year, Tinie Tempah will also be rocking crowds at various UK festivals including

Wireless with Barclaycard in Hyde Park. Info: www.livenation. co.uk / www.tinietempah. com

MEN New Boyz on remarkable men who have had the biggest impact on their life… Ben J: Shout out to Michael Jackson, RIP. He was a good man in music, he did his thing and everybody looked up to him. Besides that no other men, only my Mom because she’s raised me, same with Legacy. Legacy: Yeah, I wouldn’t say any men. The only person who has had an impact on my life is my mom.

City Showcase London – call to take part

HEADS UP

create a sound that is all his own. A four-time Grammy winner, Lenny Kravitz is known for his elaborate stage performances of hits such as Are You Gonna Go My Way and Fly Away. Tickets go on sale 9am on June 3. Info: Hammersmith Apollo | www.livenation.co.uk

Deadline: 17 June City Showcase: Roots & Flutes 17 September 2011 – a fantastic new competition for all artists to explore the roots of modern music and to celebrate traditional and classical music from all the cultures of Britain. We are looking for talented musicians of any age, solo or bands or orchestras; from steel bands to reggae or Rai, from classical ensembles to gospel choirs, from African to South American and all points across Asia and Europe including modern fusion roots. All applicants will be entered into a public vote to select ten to perform on 17th September in front of an expert and celebrity panel at an entirely FREE event in Mile End Park. The overall winner will receive mentoring and

Rebel Control_City Showcase [image Noel

Cornford and Viesturs Gross ]

performance slots in the Olympic year of 2012. Apply by emailing talent@ cityshowcase.co.uk with your contact details and links to your biog, pic and music saying where you saw the invitation to apply. Closing date 17 June 2011. Info: www.cityshowcase. co.uk

NEWS

What’s NOT to love Dnot be commercially wele Gardner may

well-known, but he sold-out four nights at Camden’s Jazz Café recently. The shows at London’s hottest soul venue are part of a mini European tour, which sees Dwele travelling to major cities including Paris. With all this jet setting, it’s surprising that when I meet Dwele in the chilling out area of the Jazz Café, he’s bursting with energy and even jumping on tables.

“I’ve only had a few hours sleep so I’m real tired. I’m pumped up on energy drinks,” explains Dwele. But still it’s business as usual and Dwele reveals his shock at selling out all of his London shows. “The shows have been going well, it’s incredible that they’ve sold out and all these people want to come and support my music.” The 33-year-old, who released his fourth studio album ‘W.ants W.orld W.omen’ last year, reflects on how his sound has evolved since his debut record. “I love making all kinds of music,” he explains. “Looking back I think that ‘Subject’ was more of a soulful album, ‘Some Kinda…’ was more of a jazzy album, ‘Sketches of a Man’ was more of a hip-hop album, ‘WWW’ is a little bit of all of that and some new s***.” Split into three sections, ‘WWW’ features a variety of sounds and lyrical content. The ‘Find Your Love’ singer explains why he chose to experiment with this album. “This

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about Dwele? album right here, I really wanted to set up different avenues for myself you know, just in case one day I might want to make an all political album,” Dwele says. Fans of the ‘baby-making’ songwriter have longsaid that he is underrated and doesn’t receive the recognition or chart positions that he deserves. But this is something Dwele strongly disagrees with. “People say I’m underrated, I kinda don’t like that. I’m comfortable where I am right now, I’m having fun, I’m enjoying myself,” he explains. “The right people know who I am. The people who are listening to me now, I know that they’re there because they love my music and not just because I’m a hot thing out there right now or ‘the talk.’” It is quite refreshing to hear an artist talk about their genuine passion for making music and not obsessing over their chart positions, which is something Dwele says he doesn’t worry about. “It’s not the end of everything. I just do music to put it out there, I just do what I feel. I hope the people like it; I hope the people enjoy it. The charts are for my manager to worry about, I worry about getting the music out,” he laughs. Dwele’s highest chart position to date was with Kanye West’s Flashing Lights, a song which he lent his smooth vocals to. The two have worked together several times, and Dwele explains their relationship. “‘Ye did a remix to Hold On which

WORDS: Alicia

People say I’m underrated, I don’t know how I feel about that. I kinda don’t like that. I’m comfortable where I am right now was on the Subject album. That was actually our first time working together. He did a verse which was actually one of the hottest verses he’s ever done!” Will they work together again? “I don’t know, we’ll see. Maybe in the future.” In the meantime, Dwele’s busy promoting his new album and the followup track to What’s Not To Love? “I’m currently releasing I Understand as the second single. Hopefully we’ll release it in

Adejobi

Lime contributor Alicia Adejobi hung out with Dwele before one of his recent Jazz Cafe gigs

Europe too. We’ve just shot the video so keep checking for it.”

MEN What three remarkable men have had the biggest impact on your life and why? Stevie Wonder, because he’s shown me that music can be more than one genre. Barack Obama, because I don’t think I could be the first black president. Lastly, my father. He passed when I was very young but every memory I have of my father is a good memory. Info: www.dwele.net | www.twitter.com/ therealdwele LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Happine TAmerica’s Got Talent his month former

contestant and United States pop sensation Alexis Jordan releases Hush Hush as the third single from her top 10 selling, selftitled debut album. With her previous two singles Happiness and Good Girl both entering the UK charts in the Top 10, no doubt Hush Hush will be another hit for the 19-year-old. Thank you for taking time out to talk to me today. Where are you calling me from? I’m in Atlanta now but was in Amsterdam at the weekend doing Dutch X Factor. It was so much fun and I was trending on Twitter. How do you prepare yourself physically and mentally for going on tour? Usually I love food and snacks and I love what I do so everything falls in the right place. I listen to my mum’s advice and she says to be ‘grounded and have fun’. Which song on the album can you most identify with? How You Like Me Now? and Laying Around With You as they are so beautiful and I love Hush Hush. My friends love the reggae song Love Mist, and The Air That I Breathe. The songs we’ve heard so far are dance floor fillers with catchy choruses including Hush Hush which is released this month. What songs get you on the dance floor? Right now, I’m loving Born This Way by Lady Gaga. Who were your musical icons when you were growing up? 26 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

It’s got to be Michael Jackson and I also love Christina Aguilera and Whitney Houston.

Who do you respect and admire in the industry now? I admire all artists as it can be hard in the industry especially with a song not selling well and you have your heart in that song and fans aren’t loving it like you are. What are your earliest memories of singing? I remember when I was five I did something for school and sang a solo and my mum and aunt were freaking out and screaming and it felt amazing. I was also in the school choir. I always wanted to be a singer. I remember the first time I performed I had butterflies and thought I was going to throw up but I got through it. To stay focused I just breathe and smile to my mum before I go on stage. Tell us about your America’s Got Talent experience? I think people liked me because it’s an inspirational, fairytale story that shows a regular girl can do it and achieve their dreams. Do you still feel like a regular girl? Sometimes I do and sometimes I don’t, people notice me more and I have more fans and I can’t go shopping alone anymore. Now that you are an international star what have been the hardest lifestyle changes you’ve had to make? [laughs] The time difference – although I’ve been having fun you have to tell your body to adjust.

What do you think makes you stand out from other artists with a similar sound? Mainly the lyrics in my songs as they are not the same ‘get your booty on the dance floor’ songs. I’m singing about things that mean something and touches people whether it’s on the dance floor or not. Do you consider yourself to be a role model? When my career is at its end I may do – right now I’m living out my dream. I want people to say ‘Alexis Jordan didn’t take her clothes off’ and to look up to me but I’m still growing up and learning so fans do need to be aware of that too. We’re a London based publication. Where do you like hanging out when you’re here? I love Black and Blue restaurant, it’s a steak restaurant but other than that my hotel room and TopShop too.

How do you feel about the headline gigs you have coming up? I feel excited more than any other emotion. We’re about to do rehearsals, the show’s going to be outstanding and the fans are going to love it – it’s going to be lots of fun but I am a little nervous. This seems to be the year of Alexis Jordan – where do you see your career heading and who would you like to work with? I think I see it more up than down as it’s just the beginning. I’d love to work with Kanye West, he’s incredible and for a vocalist, Christina Aguilera.

You’re about to start touring with JLS. Are you looking forward to it? I think it’s going to be the most interesting thing I’ve ever done. I’ll be taking lots of pictures and Twitpic-ing them. I’m happy about touring with them but I know they are a going to be a handful but it should be lots of laughs.

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ess is . . .

Ahead of her headline tour and the release of her third single Hush Hush, Lime caught up with Roc Nation’s Alexis Jordan and talked trending on Twitter, male chivalry and handling JLS. WORDS: SOPHIA A JACKSON

Anything else you would like to share with our readers? I’d like to say thank you to all my fans for all their support.

MEN What men have had a remarkable impact on your life? Jay-Z’s had a big impact having met with him a couple times, also my dad’s always been there for me and my two little brothers M and M who make me laugh when I’m overseas – we’re on Skype a lot. What should a man do to impress you? He’s got to be able to tell his woman she’s beautiful and with honesty, be a gentleman – pull out her chair and open doors sometimes, and make her laugh or it won’t work. Info: www.alexisjordanofficial.com/ uk | Catch Alexis Jordan on 30th June at London’s Scala; Wireless Festival on 1 July; on tour with JLS; and 10th July at T4 On The Beach. The single Hush Hush is released this month. LIME MAGAZINE 2011

COMEDY

ICKETS WIN T N O I T TI COMPE Father’s Day treat: peace, love and comedy Jun Comedy Roast: The Roast of Harvey The all star comedy roast toasting the one and only Harvey featuring celebrity roasters Slim, Kane Brown, Kevin J, Funmbi, Jamie Howard, Axel The Entertainer and Kayleigh Lewis with roast master: Richard Blackwood. Father’s Day falls on the same day as Comedy Roast UK – show your appreciation to your father; mum’s return the favour and show your partner the love they showed you on Mother’s Day.

Info: 7pm | Hackney Empire, 291 Mare Street, E8 | www. hackneyempire.co.uk | www.comedyroastuk. com | www.twitter.com/ comedyroastuk

Lime magazine has teamed up with Comedy Roast and has a pair of tickets to give-away to the Roast of Harvey on June 19 at Hackney Empire. To enter, email competition@comelime. com with Roast in the subject header by June 15, 2011. Please include your full name and contact number. Best of luck, people!

-30 Jun Shappi Khorsandi Star of Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, and Radio 4’sHave I Got News for You, Shappi is back with these intimate work in progress shows. Info: 9.45pm | Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London W1D 3NE | www. sohotheatre.com

-25 Jun Reginald D Hunter Reginald D Hunter plays the hmv Hammersmith Apollo this month. It’s over ten years since he began performing and he’s now one of the most best-known and distinctive

28 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

comedians. Reginald D Hunter is one of the few performers to have nominated for the highly coveted main Perrier Award in three consecutive years and is a regular guest on primetime panel shows such as Have I Got News For You and QI. Info: www.meanfiddler. com

/ 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 | www. stratfordeast.com

til 17 July 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 lineup includes Gina

Yashere, Alun Cochrane, Brendon Burns, Dom Joly, Hardeep Singh Kohli and Rory Bremner. Info: Southbank Centre, London | www.underbelly. co.uk

-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 ex-pats 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 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

Kat Francois at Word 4 Word [Image Sloetry 2011] For free tickets/info to the hottest events, sign up to our newsletter: subscribers@comelime.com

COMEDY

Richard:

The donkey

SRichard Blackwood tand-up comedian

has had a successful career, firstly as a presenter of dating show ‘Singled Out,’ acting in TV shows such as Holby City and plays. Last year, Richard starred alongside James Earl Jones in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and most recently in the spoof movie Anuvahood.

Richard Blackwood on his new role as Donkey in Shrek: The Musical WORDS: Alicia Adejobi

But in his most challenging role to date, Richard is starring in Shrek: The Musical, a West End adaption of the smash hit movie. But how has Richard been coping with singing for the first time and how did he become such close friends with stunning American actress Sanaa Lathan? Was it an easy decision for you to decide to play the donkey? Well yeah, this play isn’t like any other play. When you hear that Dreamworks have flown in from America, you know, [Shrek] is their baby and it’s putting yourself on a different kind of map. So, everybody would have jumped at the chance. Donkey was played by Eddie Murphy in the movie adaption – have you felt any pressure to match his popularity?

The singing is my biggest fear because being a stand-up, I’ve always been in my comfort zone. No, when I took the role on I knew it was obviously not going to be a walk in the park, you know, it’s Eddie Murphy. You can’t beat that. But my thing is that, these people work with Eddie Murphy and they’re auditioning me and I’m basically unknown to them so they must think that I’m good enough to play Eddie’s role. How is the singing coming along? I have a couple of solos. With musicals, they’re not like pop records where you’re in the studio and you can stay in there all night until you get the best technique. With theatre shows, when you go there and you hear people sing, it’s live and they’re at a different level. The coaching that I’m

getting is so that if I had to walk into a studio, it would be a walk in the park. So, that part is nerve-wracking but I’m up for it. Also I’ve never done any singing before this!

always been in my comfort zone. Now I’ve been taken out of that, but a challenge is always good. You can’t get to the next level without a difficulty in your path.

You recently starred in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, what was it like working alongside great actors such as James Earl Jones and Sanaa Lathan? You know what? When I first walked into the room with them, I was thinking ‘OMG I have to walk in a room and these people are gonna be there.’ But what was humbling is that Sanaa Lathan came up to me and she came over and said: ‘You’re Richard Blackwood right?’ I was like, ‘yeah, how do you know who I am?’ Sanaa and I became close, we used to hang out, we were proper friends. James Earl Jones from day dot is the most humble man you could ever meet. I’m always grateful for that experience.

What do you hope to bring to the character of donkey? I’m not going to try and overly change it to the way that Eddie [Murphy] played it, but I am going to Richard-ise it in a sense that I don’t want people to think that I’m a carbon copy.

What challenges have you come across rehearsing for Shrek? The singing! That is my biggest fear because being a stand-up, I’ve

MEN Who are the most remarkable men in theatre and comedy? In theatre it would have to be James Earl Jones and in comedy, Richard Pryor. Info: Shrek the Musical is at Theatre Royal Drury Lane: www. shrekthemusical.co.uk Printed courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News – read the full interview: www.afridiziak.com/ theatrenews/interviews/ may2011/richardblackwood.html LIME MAGAZINE 2011

June

CLUBS

NeoSoul1stSaturdays and official Julie Dexter London album release party

Tonight featuring Mishal Moore [NYC, Kenny Dope] live. Paul Aaaron’s Neo Soul night - formerly “NeoSoul3rdFridays” (NS3Fs) - is now NeoSoul1stSaturdays (NS1S). They have a brand new, sparkling venue, in Upper St, N1, lounge in feel, perfect for our Neo soul crowd. It’s our most work friendly neo soul club night to date - let’s face it where else are you going to get neo soul all night on a Saturday in London? Info: 8pm-1am| Madam Chi, 187 Upper St London N1 1RQ | www. keepthefaithevents.com

Jun Panache Occasions presents their Black Tie in the City Masquerade Ball

Favela, Blocparty – every Friday at Guanabara Words: Jennifer Rock Lime rating: The restaurant, bar and night club Guanabara is loud, lively and buzzing with a carnival atmosphere making it the perfect option for an after-work get together or late night samba. Open seven nights a week this Brazilian music bar hosts live music with guest DJ’s and has the added attraction of offering daily classes from Zumba to cocktail making. We went along to their Friday night Favela BlocParty which really lived up to its name. Food boasts a tasty selection of meats, platters and side dishes and it is worth trying their Caipirinha (a famous Brazilian cocktail) and the strawberry mojito is particularly good. As we sat down to our meal the band played cool jazz – which was a nice feature; however over the crowd, you cannot hear yourself speak and I couldn’t help but think that the restaurant would benefit from being slightly set apart from the main club area. Plus a more elevated stage would allow us to see the performances more clearly as Champagne prizes for the male and female dressed with the most panache. Two cocktails for the price of one until midnight. Info: www. panacheoccasions.com | Alchemist Bar, London EC3A 7BX

Looking for a night of mature sophistication, at a swanky venue with music played by three of the Nations favourite party and radio DJs? Ladies and Gents, dress up! And come and experience a night to remember. Music on the night: the world famous LWR radio; Studio 1, the big peoples sound and Errol Gee, the Revival master. 30 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

ERY FRI Bump Expect to hear hip hop, r&b, funky, dancehall, dubstep and booty music. Celebrate your birthday with us, and we’ll bend over backwards to give you the best night ever. On March the Legendary Mighty Moe will be blessing the Mic for a night of classic Heartless

we ended up standing in our seats to see over the crowd. The samba show certainly entertained, as a couple in traditional Latino dress sashayed and twirled around the stage plucking people from the audience to mambo and salsa up a storm. It was a lively night and the music not exclusively Latino did also feature contemporary sounds with emphasis on dance. The clientele changed throughout the night from an after work soirée to those dressed up ready to rave revellers. But don’t worry about looking the part as Guanabara generates the kind of atmosphere that anyone can enjoy. Info: | Guanabara, Parker Street, corner of Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW | www. guanabara.co.uk

CLUB REVIEW

crew Mayhem. One third of the Awesome Pioneers of UK music The Heartless Crew. It’s an Honour to have Moe hosting BUMP tonight. Expect one of the most intense, fun live shows you’ve ever seen. Info: 9pm-4am | Plan B, 418 Brixton Road, London, SW9 | www.planb-london. com

ERY SAT Love Jam Playing the best in sexy r&b, hip hop, bashment, funky house and party jams. Dress code: sexy and suave. With Mr Play and Jay Knox. Info: 10pm-3.30am | Inc

Club, O2 Arena | www. lovejamnights.com

ERY SUN Forró Forró is the longest running weekly Brazilian night in the country. A night where you can get a true taste of Brazil, packed wall to wall with the very people that gave birth to the sounds of Samba. Forró is European, African and indigenous rhythms and has its own distinctive dance. Arrive early for free Forró lessons. Info: 5.30pm to 12pm | Guanabara, Parker Street, corner of Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PW | www.guanabara.co.uk

CULBS

Lime magazine caught up with house music DJ Alex Guadino to talk about his collaboration with Kelly Rowland and their track What a Feeling.

Iproducer Alex Gaudino

WORDS: Sophia A Jackson

talian DJ and hit

returns this summer with What A Feeling, a collaboration with Destiny’s Child luminary Kelly Rowland. The renowned house music DJ is perhaps best known for the smash hit Destination Calabria which hit number four in the UK singles chart and number one in the UK club chart.

What a

How did the collaboration with Kelly Rowland come about? My music producer and I made the backing track for the song and then initially sent it over to a songwriter who came up with a great demo. Once I heard it I thought it would be perfect for Kelly and so we sent it over to her. She heard it and loved it and agreed to do it.

What was it like working with her? She’s such an amazing person, so down to earth and nice. She is really pure. What a feeling is the perfect summer anthem. Did you imagine the song as the soundtrack to summer when you were coming up with the concept? I knew it was special. I am happy everyone loves it so much but didn’t expect people would like it this much so fingers crossed it will be a huge song for the summer. The video’s pretty cool – did you have much input into it?

feeling

Other Side by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. What are the elements that make up a great house track? It’s not easy to explain because it’s a personal process and very individual but a good melody always win.

No we received video treatments and I loved it because it put Kelly and her natural position; performing and me behind the decks doing what I do which is so natural to me. What are your favourite tracks right now? Chris Brown and Benni Benassi Beautiful People and Depeche Mode’s Personal Jesus (remix). What three records never fail when you’re trying to get people up on the floor? My own song – Destination Calibra; Daft Punk’s Around the World and The

Where are your fondest DJ memories? I remember I DJ’d for a local radio at gay pride in Paris in the Place de la Bastille. There were 700 000 people and it’s one of my most amazing memories. In terms of fellow DJs, who do you admire? I have to say in terms of what I do in my world – I have respect for David Guetta because he has done so much for the genre. What’s your greatest memory of DJ-ing? It was when I was a teenager and first started DJ-ing in parties for our

I have respect for David Guetta because he has done so much for the genre. friends. Then the first performance I got in a club I was so excited and nervous for days before. After that it just got better and I had a residency at a club in the south of Italy called Acadie. What’s next for you? I am finishing off the album which we hope to release in July. Then I will be touring – I usually tour all throughout the summer and then have a bit of a rest in the winter.

MEN What three men have had a remarkable impact on your life? My Dad; Jason Rooney (my music producer) and Marco (my baby boy). Info: Alex Gaudino feat. Kelly Rowland - What A Feeling is out now | www. alexgaudino.com LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Rooftop Film Club is the exciting new outdoor film experience showing classic, cult and recent film releases on the established rooftop of the Queen of Hoxton from June onwards. Includes big screen; wireless headphones; comfy chairs – five nights. This month’s films include Top Gun; Weird Science; Bridget Jones’s Diary; Stand By Me; The Breakfast Club and Wayne’s World. Info: 8pm | Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3JX | www. rooftopfilmclub.com

ens 10 Jun The Mirror Boy The Mirror Boy movie secures first Nollywood UK cinema release and the journey begins to rally British film goers to make it the biggest African release ever. The award winning Nollywood movie announced details of a historic deal secured with Odeon cinemas to release the film across selected cinemas. The Mirror Boy (cert 12A tbc) is a family adventure written and directed by The Nollywood Factory’s Obi Emelonye and produced by OH FILMS’ Patrick Campbell.

FILM OF THE MONTH

t 24 Jun Viva Riva! Riva is an operator, a man with charm and ambition in equal measure. Kinshasa is an inviting place. With petrol in short supply in DRC’s capital, he and his sidekick pursue a plot to get hold of a secret cache - barrels of fuel they can sell for a huge profit. Of course they’re not the only ones who want the stuff. Cesar is a ruthless, sharply dressed foreigner thriving in Kinshasa’s lawless streets. A female military officer joins the fray. Even the church will betray its tenets for a piece of the action. But Riva’s main The Mirror Boy features two of Nollywood’s megastars Genevieve Nnaji (The Last Party, Ije) and Osita Iheme (‘Pawpaw’ of Aki & Pawpaw, Mr Ibu) and is supported with thrilling performances by Gambian star Fatima Jabbe and young British actor Edward Kagutuzi who makes his film debut in the movie. 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

Cassie McFarlane

nemesis is Azor, a crime boss in the classic style: big, decadent and brutal. He’s not a man to mess with, but his girlfriend, Nora, may just be the most seductive woman in all of DRC. Riva catches sight of her dancing at a nightclub and it’s not long before Nora matches the fuel cache as a coveted object of his lust. Info: www. vivarivamovie.com 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

Jun Bigging up black women on screen A day of talks and screenings celebrating the talents and achievements of African and Caribbean actresses, and exploring their struggle to contribute to excellence in UK film and television. In the morning Corinne Skinner-Carter (Empire

George Sampson and Flawless returns alongside exciting new actors as Streetdance goes global Vertigo Films begin principal photography for Streetdance 2 3D on 6th June 2011. The film will shoot on location throughout Europe, including London, Paris, Rome and Berlin. It is

32 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Road, Pressure) will join filmmaker and author Nia Reynolds for an illustrated discussion of her work. In the afternoon, scriptwriter Ade Solanke of Spora Stories will chair a panel discussion with actresses Cathy Tyson, Ellen Thomas, Nikki Amuka-Bird and Cassie McFarlane, and look to the roles and stories of tomorrow. Info: 11am-1pm |2-5pm |BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, London SE1 | www. bfi.org.uk

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 the highly anticipated follow-up to Streetdance 3D, one of the most successful independent British films of recent years. The film sees the return of favourites from the first film, including George Sampson, who won over audiences with his portrayal of cheeky chappie Eddie, and dance troupe Flawless reprise their role as dance crew The Surge. The film is set for release in 2012.

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

NEWS

SCREEN

* NEW* Rooftop Film Club

MEN

The Guard Lime Rating: | Release date: July 8 The opening film of the upcoming Edinburgh film festival is a real gem. It feels like Gleeson’s other dark comedy ‘In Bruges’ at times, but that’s no bad thing. In

fact, the opening act is about as funny as anything we’ve seen all year. Writer and Director John Michael McDonagh deserves much of the credit, but he’s helped by two performances of the highest order from Brendon Gleeson and Don Cheadle. Loud-mouthed Sgt Gerry Boyle (Gleeson) is happy to get on with his day job whilst living by a questionable code of ethics. Into his quiet world comes FBI agent Wendell Everett (Cheadle), who is on the

Lime’s JUNE Movie reviews

Senna Lime Rating: | Release date: June 3 Focussing on Ayrton Senna, one of the greatest Formula One drivers to have ever graced the race track, this Asif Kapadia documentary looks at an extraordinary life and tragic death. The spirit and grace of Senna is the stuff of legend, and the craft employed in this exhilaratingly moving film is a worthy legacy to the popular Brazilian whose name is synonymous with the sport to this day. Kapadia displays a clear understanding of Kung Fu Panda 2 Lime Rating: | Release date: June 10 The original animation was entertaining for the kids, if a little tedious for the adults. The sequel suffers from the opposite problem as it layers on morals for the grown-ups to get their heads around leaving a ponderous middle-section that the youngsters will struggle to sit through. Jack Black returns as the cuddly Po, a martial arts panda who is now

the subject matter, but keeps is accessible to all allowing archive footage to tell the story whilst making sure fans will have nothing to complain about. The controversial tussles with arch-rival the leader of a troupe of fighters who protect the weak and innocent. One of the gags from the first film, where Po parents were birds rather than pandas, is addressed here. The joke wasn’t really that funny, so we have no problem with the decision to use this as a more serious basis for the

tail of a group of viscous drugs-dealers. What ensues is a hilarious, and at times moving, story featuring the inevitable clash of cultures in rural Ireland. Another member of the McDonagh clan made the aforementioned ‘In Bruges’, and the comparisons are obvious, but this is still an entertaining and hugely clever film in its own right. The second half of the film might not be as consistently funny, but still delivers with the bickering pair learning to accept their differences. Thankfully, the humour remains refreshingly non-PC. Starring: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle and Mark Strong Alain Prost are given great exposure, featuring behind-the-scenes footage that has rarely been seen before. There are signposts to the impending disaster throughout the film, but there is never an air of anything morbid to proceedings. It still packs an emotional punch that will impact on even the most casual viewer, with those familiar with the subject matter sure to be left mesmerised by the power of the central figure, and by the effortless class of the director. Outstanding stuff. film, but it’s not handled in a particularly wise manner. The film feels like an extended trailer, with a breakneck pace using lots of montages and cutaways, but rarely focussing on anything of any substance. The layering on of a more serious message is lost in this mix, and the

Lime DVD review | Fire in Babylon Lime Rating: | Release date: June 6

SCREEN

Words: Cassam Looch

The sad demise in recent years of West Indian cricket has been difficult to watch, which is why this documentary harks back to the golden age when the energy brought to the traditionally stuffy sport by the Caribbean team was infectious for all. Similar to Senna, this documentary is kept accessible to all. With new interviews interweaved with vivid footage from the 70s and 80s, the wider significance on the general populous is excellently captured. If anything the exploits of the team in this time-period was just as important to the black community in the UK as it was to those back in the Caribbean, and this is also discussed thanks to some well selected contributions. occasions when the story pauses for thought come across as juddering halts which the kids will hate. Another problem is the unnecessary 3D, which adds nothing apart from a dull hue to proceedings. Some stunt casting is a welcome distraction if you can pick the voices from one another, but overall this lacks any of the wit of Pixar’s finest efforts. Voices of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie and Dustin Hoffman LIME MAGAZINE 2011

SCREEN

Aml Ameen’s Dream Team Aa long way from

ml Ameen has come

the days when he starred in Kidulthood. Since he has starred in The Bill and has now moved on to Hollywood where he is starring in well-received Harry’s Law. As if that isn’t enough, Aml runs his own drama school Actors Student Alliance (ASA) and has started his own film production company AmeenDream Entertainment. Lime attended the launch of his new company where the 25 year-old showcased three of his short movies: Drink, Drugs and KFC, Special Delivery and The Pick-Up, for the first time in April. You’ve been working on your films for some time, how did it feel to have everyone finally see them? The films were like my baby, it’s weird because I wasn’t that nervous. I told myself that whatever happens happens, we’ve done what we’ve done and we’re still learning. I was nervous that the film wouldn’t play, half-way through I was thinking ‘is it gonna black out?’ Then I would be embarrassed and have to tell bad jokes. It was lovely that people said they felt inspired and entertained. I’m happy 34 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Someone asked me four years ago where will I be in five years, and I said the biggest stage in the world (Hollywood) and that’s where I am now for us as a team to make projects that reach people in different ways. What was your initial reaction when you first heard you got the part on Harry’s Law? I was in my room and I was just relaxing with

my mum, brother and sister when I got a phone call. It was my agent, my manager and my lawyer all on the phone at the same time. One of them said: “The really bad news is that you’re not going to be going home for a while but you’ve got the lead role

in Harry’s Law, opposite Kathy Bates!” I went out onto the balcony and there was this breeze and there was a huge peace that came over me and I felt like I could just relax. It felt euphoric. What’s it like working

WORDS: Alicia Adejobi

with acting legend Kathy Bates? I was intimidated when I first started. Kathy and I have a great rapport, and she always mentions me in interviews. She’s lovely and she’s taught me some things, like working hard will give you longevity and great moments. Tell me about AmeenDream Entertainment. How did your short films come about? I’ve been writing for years but I never had an interest in making the scripts into films or I didn’t have the right contacts – I wasn’t tenacious enough with it. But then a student approached me with a short film but I never had an interest in them before. When I read the films I thought, ‘this is good,’ so I decided to make them into films. The films we’ve created under Ameen Dream – the roles are basically characters I’ve always wanted to play. You know, I grew up watching House Party, The Wood, The Best Man and I’ve not been able to play those roles because they haven’t been available in England. So I wanted to create a platform for younger actors to play roles that I would have liked to play. Right now, my focus is trying to do things separate to what everyone else is doing.

and starring in your own film? As an actor, you’re meant to be in the moment as much as possible and you’re working with your fellow actor. The problem is, if you’re acting and directing you’ve got to have a third eye to see if what everyone else is doing is correct. I think that’s problematic. It’s difficult in a sense but I try to have an actor friend watching as well. Directing is a huge job, but I love it. Did you ever think Kidulthood would propel your fame as much as it did? Well, the thing I always try and tell myself is that each job is one job and I’m a working actor. Someone asked me four years ago where will I be in five years, and I said the biggest stage in the world (Hollywood) and that’s where I am now. I’m proud that I’ve done that in four years. You’re away in America at the moment. How involved are you in your drama school? Well it’s managed by a team of people and I still get the last say on everything. I think I’m also a fresh energy because when I come into town, they know it’s business so they have to be on their p’s and q’s

and be ready to show their talent. How are you finding the LA lifestyle? I like it but I like being in and out of both countries because you get a vibe from both cities. I’ve been back in London for two weeks now and I’ve forgotten what LA’s like. I’m so proud of being British, London’s the greatest city in the world. I put my accent on extra hard when I’m around the women there, I go from being a normal guy to superman in a second. They love the accent.

What’s your aim for the next year? Hopefully finishing the second season of Harry’s Law. I would love to have done two American feature films that really cement me as an actor in America. With AmeenDream, I would love to finish Drink, Drugs and KFC as a feature.

SCREEN

Aml Ameen reveals what life in Hollywood is like.

MEN What three remarkable men have had an impact on your life and why? My brother Mikel because he’s such an interesting and rebellious spirit. My father for investing his time and money in me. Also Kwame Kwei-Armah for being such an intelligent man and supporting and inspiring me. Info: www. ameendream entertainment. com/

What’s the hardest thing about directing LIME MAGAZINE 2011

COMMUNITY

THE REMARKABLE

AUTHOR

hat has been the reaction to The Hairdresser of Harare? It’s been really positive. The book has had good reviews from Zimbabwe, South Africa, the USA and the UK, all four countries in which it’s available. But more important has been the positive feedback via email from readers right across the world.

Why the salon setting? The salon acts as a focal point that brings people from different classes and backgrounds together organically. If you’ve been to salons in Zimbabwe you’ll be surprised by just how vibrant and full of life they are. What is your

favourite section of the book? Chapter 22 is explosive. It’s the scene in which Minister M. arrives unannounced and finds Trina, the white farmer’s wife, getting her hair done at the salon. This chapter brings all the central characters together into one scene (a trick Dostoevsky loved to pull in his books) and reveals a lot about the characters and their motivations. What is your ideal writing environment? Big warm house on the outskirts of Edinburgh, rent paid, all the bills paid, food in the fridge, top of the range Apple Mac, room with a view, plenty of money in the bank, fan-mail pouring through my mailbox. Alas, I write in bed from my dingy one bedroom flat on a laptop that’s on its last legs and the only mail I get is brown envelopes from different debt collection agencies, oh and the landlord bless his soul. What books did you enjoy as a young person? I didn’t read as much as I should have, I was too busy enjoying my life and being carefree. The few books I did read

were prescribed reading material at school, Animal Farm, Tunzi and The Faithful Shadow, Julius Caesar - the mandatory Shakespeare, oh and I have vague memories of A Kiss For Little Bear – what a classic. What book do you wish you had written? Tough one because there are so many. Shadow of the Wind, Carlos Ruiz Zafon, I’d give up a kidney, an ear and one testicle if it meant I could have a sliver of that man’s talent. Did you study writing? I didn’t study a creative writing course or anything like that. I learnt through reading writers who I admired and did a lot of trial and error. I wrote awful pieces but that’s just part of the learning process. You don’t just wake up one day and find yourself a virtuoso you need to get your 10 000 hours in there. Sweat, tears and cider. What would you say to encourage new writers? READ, YOU FOOLS! Do you have a book that changed your life? Crime and Punishment, it was my introduction to Russian Literature. After I read it I knew the possibilities of the human mind are limitless. I can safely say had I not read it I probably would never have put pen to paper.

MEN What three men have had a remarkable impact on your life and why? 36 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Tendai Huchu’s first book The Hairdresser of Harare, was published last autumn, it a story of ambition, love and friendship and gives a sense of what life in Zimbabwe is really like. WORDS: Tricia Wombell

1) Mr. Chauke – my history teacher at Churchill High School, he caned me a lot with a rubber hose pilfered from the science labs but somewhere in between punishment, taught me to think critically and appreciate there are many different dimensions to any story. 2) Robert Mugabe continues to teach me to this day that mankind is such a remarkable creation both capable of reaching the loftiest heights of morality and the basest recesses of depravity. 3) Martin Gotora (aka DJ Smoothspinner) – high school and university friend, taught me it is possible to get to your lectures with a massive hangover. He also supported me immensely as I was getting started on my writing and receiving rejection letters. Without his optimistic friendship to balance my melancholic disposition I probably would have quit ages ago. Oh, and groupies may not like writers but they also seem to like the DJ’s best mate – saved me from many a cold night. Tendai Huchu’s first book The Hairdresser of Hairdresser is out now Tricia Wombell blogs at Black Book News: www. tricia-blackbooknews.com.

BOOK REVIEW

Getting to Happy by Terry McMillan takes up the story 15 years after her most celebrated book, Waiting to Exhale ends. Gloria, Savannah, Bernadine and Robin are now in their 50s and experiencing mid-life crises not unlike ones in the original book. It’s about love: finding it, keeping it, making a life after losing it. McMillan was ‘up there’ in the 90s with Alice Walker, Toni Morrison, Paule Marshall, Maya Angelou, she is part of this group of AfricanAmerican women writers whose work was not to be missed, because while the issues were universal, they were specifically being told through the contemporary realities of black women and their men. So after all

this time with no McMillan, I was ready for Getting to Happy and the chance to reacquaint myself with the lives of the four friends. Not so sure that it was worth it, the book is inconsistent in its flow – for ages nothing much really happens. There are flashes of the things that I enjoyed most about McMillan’s earlier books, the dialogue, the musings on life and the lively writing around the strength of the friendships between the women. But in the end, the writers that we’ve all been reading in recent times have been so tremendous, I reckon, we’ve become more discerning as readers, but I’m going to go see the film when it comes out though. Info: Tricia Wombell blogs at Black Book News | www.triciablackbooknews.com

ery Mon *new* Learn to Kizomba Kizomba classes all levels presented by Da Salsa Room. Info: 7.30-8.30pm – beginners | 8.45-9.45pm – intermediate and improvers | Heritage Inn; Caribbean Rhum Bar and Restaurant | info@ kizombavibes.co.uk

Inspirations] and Vanessa Oluwole [LvLv Events] Info: Holiday Inn, London Docklands, 1 Silvertown Way, Canning Town, London E16 1EA | vanessa@ eventsbylvlv.co.uk Vanessa@eventsbylvlv. co.uk Venue:Holiday InnLondon Docklands,1 Silver town way, Canning Town, London, E16 1EA

ery Tues Islington Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast Club An informal yet vibrant business networking meeting and a great way to start the business day. Bring plenty of cards, news and your business referrals. The Breakfast Club is held at different locations across Islington. Info: 7:30am-9am | To register, email: info@ islingtonchamber.org.uk | www.islingtonchamber. org.uk

Jun The Grapevine at Adulis With Eddie Nestor [BBC London/ The Real McCoy] and Melvyn Davis [The Male Development Service]. Info: 7-11pm | Adulis Restaurant, 44 Brixton Road, London SW9 6BL

Jun Street Party Do u have your chair, mat, towel, log, bench to sit on as you enjoy scrumptious food and sun ready for the free Street Party at SE63DJ? Bring a friend, family and children to enjoy a BBQ, catered food, snacks, drinks all sold at a small fee. Open air music, games, entertainment and more. Dress comfortably, relax and just have some good old fashioned fun. Info: 12-7pm | info@ signaturevevents.com | 07518553738

Jun Style and Substance + open mic

Jun Girls and Gangs Discussion with Rahana Mohammed from Race on the Agenda This is a fantastic opportunity to talk though the issues of how girls are affected by gang violence with someone who knows. Info: 5th Floor Restaurant, Waterstones Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD | 07525 039429

Jun Certified Basic Intensive & Interactive Event Venue Decorations Workshop 2011 Training in balloon, floral, drapes and centrepieces decorating. Facilitators Tope Abulude [Balloon Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial.

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COMMUNITY

Lime book review: Getting to Happy, Terry McMillan Words: Tricia Wombell Lime rating: 2 stars

ladies are made of with the added bonus of raising awareness of some of the charities that support women. Hosted by Dionne Reid. Info: 7.30pm | Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3JX | www. sistova.wordpress.com

Jun Nubian Ski meet and greet The meet and greet is open to everyone, whether you ski or not. So whether you are new to Nubian Ski, want to travel to Utah and Las Vegas with us or are a veteran Nubian skier / boarder then come along. If you are just curious about what we do then come and take a look. Info: 7.30pm – 12 midnight | Stone Bar, 68-70 Honor Oak Park, London SE23 1DY | www.nubianski.com

11 London’s No.1 All Female Talent Charity Showcase – Style and Substance is back with a bang. Every other month we bring together some of the most talented females in the arts to celebrate just what us

Jun SlutWalk London : The radical notion that nobody deserves to be raped. The radical notion that nobody deserves to be raped – make it known that those who experience sexual assault are never the ones at fault, and show the world we’re proud of LIME MAGAZINE 2011

COMMUNITY

The alternative

greeting card

The TeyaLilly greeting card company brings a new outlook to the multicultural greeting card market. As it’s Father’s Day this month and Lime’s celebrating Remarkable Men, we found out more about their plans for expansion. WORDS: SOPHIA A JACKSON

LSamuel, TeyaLilly aunched by Leah

cards were born from the desire for more choice. After having a hard time finding books, birthday cards, cartoons that had a point of reference – a little black girl – she decided to hire an illustrator to draw a little girl. She then realised that if she were struggling to find cards to buy then other people probably were also and TeyaLilly was born. The name is a combination of the creator’s daughter’s name “Teya” and her family

nickname “Lilly”. Beeb and Boogie are the first characters and others will be added, as will merchandise and books. Why did you launch TeyaLilly cards? It came about when I realised there was limited point of reference for my daughter in regard to cards, books, toys etc. I decided I was going to create a greeting card using a little girl she could relate to. This is how the characters Beeb and Boogie were born. What advice would you give to someone who wanted to become an entrepreneur? Network, network, network . . . . People can be one of the most valuable resources. What have been the hardest challenges that you’ve overcome in setting up TeyaLilly? I found it difficult to accept the sometimes negative, although useful, feedback about the designs that had in effect become my second baby. Also balancing work life, social life, motherhood, budgets and time. What research did you do before setting up a greeting card company? I called my mum who is

38 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Are there things you wished you did differently? I wish I’d started sooner; I procrastinated on my idea, not sure whether I could see it through. What valuable business lessons have you learned that you wish to share with our readers? Listen to all advice/ criticism but have the courage of your own convictions. Don’t lower your standards. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – something I still struggle with. Who has been your biggest champion and support since you went into this business venture? I’ve had a lot of support

from my amazing friends and family, but if I had to name only one person I’d have to say my mum ‘Jem’ who I would describe as the greatest, most fantastic, dependable, smart, hardworking, honest, sarcastic, quick-witted, wonderfully crazy woman of all time.

COMMUNITY

a Google whizz, told her everything I needed and waited for her to email me the categorised, Excel spreadsheet’s of info. I also spent a lot of time in Paperchase, Sketch, Clintons etc, as well as independent shops in different areas looking at cards, prices and paper stock and also online looking at website’s, buying cards and looking at how they were packaged, priced and their delivery times. My research solidified the fact that there was space in the market for my idea.

Do programmes such as The Apprentice and Dragons’ Den inspire? They absolutely terrify me. Watching them makes me nervous and I tend not to do so often, but they also make me realise I need to have a solid idea, plan and direction in relation to what I want to do and where I’m going. Tell us about the cards you have which are aimed at male recipients. We have birthday cards which show Boogie as a superhero, football player and sports car driver and we’re developing a Get Well Soon card where he’ll be a doctor. We also have Father’s Day cards. What are your future plans for TeyaLilly? Children’s books will be the next step along with merchandise, with expansion within the UK and in other world markets as the long term goal. What’s the best thing about running your own

business? The amazing feedback and having something that I have created being liked, accepted and bought. I also have the flexibility of being able to spend afternoons at the Science Museum with my daughter’s nursery.

MEN What three men have had the most remarkable impact on your life and why? The first will have to be my dad. I grew up Rastafarian, which wasn’t that popular in my neighbourhood. Although I didn’t have dreadlocks I had to keep my head covered, I wasn’t allowed to wear trousers, I didn’t get to eat McDonalds, ketchup etc or have things like sweets and fizzy drinks. It instilled in me a strong sense of self and the belief that if people didn’t accept you for who you are then they weren’t worth knowing. At the time I just wanted to be like my friends, but it’s the reason I am now happy to be individual and am never really affected by

other people’s opinions of me. He was also strict and my respect and manners are a direct result of that. My brothers – I will never say this to them and if they read it I will deny it, but I couldn’t actually live without them. They have given me direct access to the male psyche and I believe it is testament to them that I have happy, healthy relationships with boyfriends, ex’s, male friends. Seeing how they behave around women and how women behave around them, helped me to decide how to and how not to behave. The fact that they are often prone to indulging way too much information is testament to the fact that they are, as my mum says “so foolish they defy logic”. My partner, my daughter’s father - who encouraged me to go freelance, was one of my first clients and sent everyone who crossed his path my way. He also helped to provide the inspiration behind TeyaLilly and has supported me throughout. Info: www.teyalilly.com | Father’s Day takes place on 19 June 2011. LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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London N1 9JP |www. bispublications.com

who we are. Let’s make our voices heard! Join us; we are a group of people who will be marching, stamping, rolling, shouting and hollering through the streets of London on Saturday, 11th June, to tell the world that rape is never, ever the fault of the victim – no matter WHAT they were wearing! On January 24, 2011, a Toronto policeman told a group of law students that in order to avoid being raped ‘women should avoid dressing like sluts’. This sparked outrage around the globe, with women from Chicago to Amsterdam standing up and saying that we have had ENOUGH of being victimised and labelled, with women speaking out for freedom, equality and fun. Info: 1pm | Trafalgar Square, London | http://slutwalklondon. tumblr.com/about | slutwalklondon@gmail. com

Jun Older Women in Learning and Enterprise 50+ 50+ women: making our voices heard : Forum event – with life expectancy rising and health improving even more people will be aiming to work well into their 50s and 60s.

Every year the Common Ties - Coming Together Proverb Party is held at Eynsham Hall

Today’s 50+ women are carving out new roles, at work, in society balancing the traditional and the caring with adventures, innovations, new ideas. What are the main issues for 50+? Come and interact with our expert panel, who all have a role with 50+ women, voice your opinions, meet some older women who are relaunching their lives and find out about the project. Info: London Metropolitan University, Henry Thomas Room , 166-220 Holloway Road, London N7 8DB | www.owle50plus.eu

Jun Business Start Up Master Class An essential Master Class for those serious about starting a business. Topics will include: • Choosing the right legal structure for your business • How to register your business • How to find and keep customers • Securing finance for your business

Older Women in Learning and Enterprise 50+

40 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

• Finding office space • Where to get professional advice and support Info: 09.30-12.30 or 1-4pm | Training Room Hire Company, Lafone House, The Leathermarket, Weston Street, SE1 3ER | www.ampod.com/events/ upcoming-events

Jun One Day Intensive course for African Caribbean writers who want to Self Publish Successfully Have you ever wanted your writings published? Do you have a manuscript written but its still in your head or maybe it’s already on paper? You’ve heard friends and family say it’s great and should be in the bookshops. Do you write children stories for your child(ren) and they just love them? Are you a spoken word performance poet or you just write poetry for fun and now you would like to put it in book form? Have you written or would you like to write an autobiography, biography, a crime story, science fiction piece, a How To book, a children story, poetry book? Whatever your fancy this one day intensive course will give you all the tools you need to have a successfully published book which can be bought in major book stores and online. Info: 12-4pm | Voluntary Action Islington 200A Pentonville Road

-19 Jun The Ultimate Annual Weekend Retreat: Common Ties - Coming Together Proverb Party A weekend of celebration and cultural transformation. Dedicated to your own self-care - a chance to slow down, reconnect with yourself, party and reflect on your life. Now add a beautiful natural country setting; healthy, nutritious food; and a community of likeminded friends and you’ve discovered a wonderful retreat for your soul. This experiential weekend break is designed to support you in identifying your most heartfelt priorities so you can start to honour the needs of your soul in everyday life. Using a combination of self-reflection exercises, dancing to “back in the day” music, storytelling and lively group discussions. You will profoundly deepen your experience with storytelling, understanding of who you are, what life is about, and how to live with true inner peace, happiness, compassion, and success. Are you ready to give yourself the gift of a weekend away? You – and your loved ones – will be glad you did! Invest in yourself today, Info: Eynsham Hall, Oxford | book via www. onehandcantclap.co.uk

June African Market Many stalls, drumming circle, homemade food, workshops, African arts and crafts, fashion, jewellery, natural skincare, music, books, DVDs, arts and more. Every third Saturday of the month. Info: 12-6pm | Open the Gate, 33-35 Stoke Newington Road, London N16 8BJ | www. openthegate.org.uk

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

APPEAL

Refugee Week

-26 Jun Refugee Week Refugee Week is a unique opportunity to discover and celebrate the contributions refugees bring to the UK. During Refugee Week loads of events take place across the UK, all of which explore refugee experiences. Whatever you’re into – be it arts, music, food or just meeting people in your local area – Refugee Week will have an event for you. This year is the 60th anniversary of the Refugee Convention. In order to mark the occasion and link it to Refugee Week 2011, the theme for this year will be 60 Years of Contribution. They’re collecting stories and case studies about the contributions that refugees have made to Britain over the last 60 years. If you have any interesting stories or photos on this subject to share, they’d very much like to hear from you. Info: www.refugeeweek. org.uk

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Community In this workshop you will learn; the art of setting a goal that will actually work. How to create a relationship with yourself by developing a sacred practice. How to use creative art techniques and healing exercises through movement and adornment. You will also learn the ancient secrets to developing a relationship with your inner goddess. This workshop is a part of a series of Playshops taken from the Creative Healing Playbook. Info: Hackney Forge, Victoria Park, E9 7HD www.mjfontaine.co.uk

June Black Reading Group: Miss Shirley Bassey by John Williams

Jun The Creative Healing PlayshopSolstice Workshop

The book has not been without a certain amount of contention in the reviews and it will be good discuss the role (rights?) of the biographer as well as the life of Shirley Bassey. Info: 3pm |Waterstones, 203/206 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD | www.triciablackbooknews.com Are we friends? Like us and get free tickets to the best shows across the captial. www.facebook.com/limemagazine

The ACLT have recently responded to the plight of 2 year old Kye CarpenterMark, from Southall, Middlesex. Kye celebrates his 3rd birthday on 18 May but his smiles hide his desperate fight for life after suffering a relapse of the Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) he was diagnosed with before his 2nd birthday in 2010. He urgently needs a Super Hero. Kye’s mother Laura Carpenter noticed that his unresolved flu-like symptoms just wouldn’t go away, “We knew something just wasn’t right. After 4 anxious months, tests revealed Kye’s platelet cells that control blood clotting were very low and subsequently unresponsive to treatment.” Doctors finally detected cancerous blood cells and Kye started 5 months of chemotherapy on 21 June at Great Ormond Street Hospital to help restore his struggling immune system. Seven months later, the bone pain returned and on 28 April 2011 they found he was suffering from bone marrow failure. Kye is receiving urgent treatment at Hillingdon Hospital, and awaits further chemotherapy. He continues to fight infection and fevers and needs regular blood transfusions to sustain him. His best chance of recovery is a bone marrow stem cell transplant from a genetically-matched donor – but he now faces incredible odds to find someone suitable. Kye is Laura’s (White British) and Kieran Mark’s (Grenadian/ Curacao Island) only son. Statistically, the chances of finding unrelated matches for Mixed race people are lower because of greater genetic diversity and too few people from minority ethnic communities volunteer to join the bone marrow register, and this makes the task so much harder. Kye’s parents have lauched an urgent appeal “We urge everyone to unite on 18 June (also Laura’s birthday); especially people from Mixed race and African Caribbean communities and sign up to help save Kye and others like him. You never know, you may be able to help. Finding a match would be the best birthday present ever!”

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

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Life beyond

the pen

Cis director of Syrus hristopher Syrus

Consultancy, an initiative created to influence young people through personal development and creative writing workshops. He is also the author of the book LoveLife6958 Memoirs from the Pen. LoveLife6958 is the symbolic transformation of his allocated prison number LL6958, representing the change from his negative past towards a promising and positive future. Christopher has dedicated himself to working with young people enabling them to learn from his mistakes We caught up with this inspiring man who is making a difference to the generation of the future by using spoken word to educate the young. You used your time in prison to turn your life around – how did you stay on track and avoid making the same mistakes? Because of the length of sentence, I needed to make a clear decision on whether I would spend the rest of my life in and out of jail or change and do something else. I had the time to reflect on myself as a person, as a man and I decided I didn’t

Christopher Syr with London’s

Christopher Syrus in the studio for LoveLife6958

want to be a statistic. I wanted to be someone successful, a role model, a father. These were the things that motivated me, to set goals and stay on track. I completed four years psychology with the Open University, got my Advice and Guidance NVQ Level 3, completed Teacher Trainer qualification and got accredited to be a Goals (personal development organisation) facilitator.

Multi award-winning Christopher Syrus talks with Lime about how going to prison turned his life around for the better. WORDS: SOPHIA A JACKSON

42 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

rus with his Peace Award pictured s Mayor Boris Johnson

Was there peer pressure to go down the wrong path? There’s always pressure from the media, peers, and others, to fit a certain mould. There’s a strong influence to define your masculinity in violence and crime. There’s also the pressure to not become a victim or be dominated by others. Added to this, there is the excitement of the fast lane and the street respect for building a negative reputation. For young people the peer pressure is intense and sometimes it takes a lot to not get drawn in. What was your prison sentence for and how long did you spend in prison? It was for a drugs conspiracy charge and I was sentenced to 10 years, spending five years incarcerated. What kind of content do you use for your creative writing workshops? While I was inside I wrote a lot and on my release I published the book LoveLife6958 Memoirs from the pen’ which is a collection of my poems. To write about my experience and thoughts was

What’s it like working with young people and how do you keep them inspired and motivated? My calling and purpose is to work with people particularly young people disaffected and at risk. I think being open and honest. Sharing my testimony and showing caring for young people helps to motivate and inspire them. I believe in them as I believe in myself and I show them they can have the positive things they want in their life. But they will have to look at themselves and their behaviour and take responsibility for building a positive future if that’s what they decide. You seem to have a positive outlook on life. Where does that come from? I have a great family who have always shown me love, kindness and support. I believe in a higher being who created all, guides and protects. I’m aware of the power of positive thinking and having a positive attitude and how this can transform your life and draw things of a similar nature towards you. Who are some of the spoken word artists and poets alive that you admire? The spoken word poet I admire most is Tupac

Shakur. He publicly battled with his good and dark side, was a revolutionary in his own right and was highly misrepresented as solely a negative gangster rapper. He has a poetry book, he has many songs relating to faith, up lifting communities and uniting against the enemy. He had a strong character as a leader, great work ethic and loyal to those around him and his beliefs. Currently on the spoken word scene my first big inspiration came from Best Kept Secret, their play Tuggstar for President was amazing and encouraged me to include performance poetry in my pieces. Artists I try to catch now are G.R.E.E.D’s, Amen Noir, Mikel Ameen and Mosiac. Female poets I’ve really enjoyed recently include Floetic Lara, Kat Francois, Kemi, M’jay Chayil and Comfort. How did you become patron for Mothers Against Guns and how do you contribute to the organisation? I first came into contact with Mother’s Against Guns in 2008. I was working closely with several mothers Iffat Rizvi (S.T.A.R.R), Tracey Ford (JAGS Foundation), Mrs Ali and Nicola Dyer, who were willing to allow me to make a video diary of their story, showing pictures and video footage of their loved ones who had died through gun and knife crime. I was at open prison at the time and under ‘The Freedom Initiative’ banner partnering with ‘Foundation4Life’ we put on an awards ceremony and anti gun and knife crime event where we showed footage. I was yet to meet Lucy Cope founder of Mothers Against Guns who was later introduced to me by Iffat at a youth event (Storm empowerment) in Battersea that I was performing at. She connected with the poetry I was sharing and felt that I had the power to influence and change

lives and we formed a relationship from there. I contribute by providing another perspective on issues as Lucy is very involved in lobbying and regularly interviewed on current affairs. I represent the organisation at events with spoken word and as a speaker providing a positive role model and inspiring others. What are London’s best spoken word events? I Luv Live is quite hot. I’m going to be at Poetry in Motion, Rum Punch, Apples and Snakes Jaw Dance, and Lyrically challenged in the near future.

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therapeutic as well as having something to read back and reflect upon. I’ve used these poems as part of a spoken word showcase to educate and deter young people from crime. In my workshops I’ll share my testimony through spoken word and then provide the environment for others to write, share and perform, focusing on different topics. We will read other poets work, to learn and be inspired. Through partnership with another organisation ‘Surperact’ we also offer an Edexcel qualification.

What’s your next major project for 2011? I’ve turned my spoken word into a film, that will be coming out this year, so quite excited about that. It will be on DVD, but looking for other media outlets as well.

MEN What three men have had a remarkable impact on your life and how ? There’s men in my family who have worked hard, own businesses, and loved and supported their family well. Traits I admire and am inspired by. Outside of family I would say I have been greatly inspired by Muhammed Ali because of his self belief, principles, talent and charisma. Nelson Mandela for his endurance and peace, leadership and humbleness and Tupac Shakur because I believe so much can be learned from the life he led and the poetry and songs he created. Info: www. syrusconsultancy.com – for further information on his book and CD LoveLife6958 Memoirs from the Pen LIME MAGAZINE 2011

BREAKTIME

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

90s Songs

Find and circle all of the 1990’s songs that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell an additional song. ALL STAR ALWAYS BLACK VELVET CARNIVAL COME UNDONE DO ANYTHING EVERY HEARTBEAT FREAK ME GLYCERINE HAZARD HEARTBREAKER HEY LOVER HOLE HEARTED I WISH IESHA INVISIBLE MAN JOYRIDE JUMP LITHIUM LOSER MACARENA MMMBOP MOVE THIS MY ALL

SOMEDAY

NEVER EVER

SUMMERTIME

ONLY YOU

TENNESSEE

PUSH

THA CROSS-

RHYTHM NATION

ROADS

ROAM

THE ONE

ROMANTIC

TOM’S DINER

RUN AWAY

TORN

RUSH RUSH

VOGUE

SCAR TISSUE

WICKED GAME

SENSITIVITY

WONDER

SHOOP

YOU LEARN

44 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Hub-Words How many words can you make from the letters in the wheel? Each word must contain the hub letter A. Can you find a 9-letter word and at least 20 other words of five letters or more avoiding proper nouns? SOLUTION:9-letter word - IMPARTIAL Some other words of five letters or more containing the hub letter A: alarm, altar,apart, atria, atrip, maria, matai, plait, prima, raita, riata, tiara, tapir, tiara, trail, tramp, trial, armpit, impair, impala, impart, lariat, primal, air-mail, marital, martial, partial.

MR. WENDAL

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

Who doesn’t belong?

LIME MAGAZINE 2011

LAUGH OUT LOUDER! BREAKTIME

MIND BENDERS

These aren’t necessarily jokes, but they are so weird that you’ll probably just start laughing after you read them anyway. That is until you start racking your brain trying to figure out how they work out how they do!

ou k at what y ’s take a loo ear available et L . ff o ay tad per y So you wan r. There are 365 days h you ear in whic fo y g er in p k s as k e ee ar w days 1 52 26 e g ar in here leav for work. T 2 days off per week, each rs e d 16 hou already hav work. Since you spen up 170 days, r d inutes available fo m work, you have use spend 30 m s each o u fr o Y ay . le aw b la ay ai d day ly 91 days av which counts for 23 leaving on ak re b coffee . each day on only 68 days available g in av le er year, d up anoth day, you use for work. You ch ea ch n lu le b ur days availa With a 1 ho This ing only 22 sick leave. 46 days, leav d 2 days per year on lable for work. en ai normally sp ly 20 days per year av r available on you so r, ive ea y leaves you er p enerously g 5 holidays days. We g 15 ay We are off to d 1 n w ly o aves on me is d working ti ion per year which le are going at ned if you ac v am d s e ay b ll I’ 14 d d an r work available fo ay off! d at th e k to ta

3 guys go for dinner, each buys a $10 steak. At the end of the meal, they collect $30 between the three of them to cover the cost of the meals and gives it to the waitress. She goes back to the cash register, where the overlooking manager says “Those dinners are discounted, you need to give them $5 back.” So the waitress gets the five dollars, and returns to the table. Not knowing how to split $5 between the three of them, she gives 1 dollar to each of the three patrons, and kept two for herself. Now if you do the math, together they paid $30, got $3 back meaning they only paid $27. The waitress kept $2. This totals $29. Where did the last dollar go? 46 LIME MAGAZINE 2011

Depending o the answer n how you ask the qu es yo the other 78 u seek! Remember 43 tions, you can force % are made % scroll down up! Don’t ju of polls are wrong, . answers, an Take this test mentall mp to the answer, just y, d don’t sho ut them ou don’t write down yo ur t. 1. Pick a nu mber from 2 to 9. It ca number in n be 2 or it bet can be 9, or 2. Take that ween. any number th at you’ve ch 9. osen, and m 3. That sho ultiply it b y uld give yo u a two dig digits and it number. add them to Take those gether. 4. Take the two re 5. Take that sulting number and su number an b tr ac t 5 from d correspon bering the lett d it to the al it. 6. Take you ers. A =1, B=2, C=3, phabet, nu an mr letter, and that letter. think of a co d so on... untry that b 7. Take the egins with la of an anim st letter in the name o al. f that coun try, and thin 8. Now, tak e k think of a co the last letter in the n ame of that lor. an 9. But remem imal, and ber, that th Denmark. ere are no o range kang aroos in

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