FREE
in the mood for ISSUE 7, February 2010 in association with
screen
events
tv
theatre
l o v e
Interview with
Idris Elba
CLUBS
Community
music
reviews
ONhe I T TI o t t
PEkets e M h c CO Ti at t tre gallery
a n Wi th Tale l The 14 tiona Na
CONTENTS WORD FROM THE EDITOR
Ayah
Lime’s in the mood for love and we celebrate the most romantic month of the year with our hottest cover yet. With a red hot cover, naturally there’s a smouldering interview. This month it’s with ladies favourite actor come singer, Idris Elba. Our features editor, Michelle Adabra, has done it again by getting that scoop. We take our themes pretty seriously so we’ve gone deep into the realms of amorousness to help you choose how you spend February 14th. Maybe it’ll be with Ne-Yo at Wembley or perhaps you want to flip the script and partake in the celebration of Chinese New Year? Or how about heading down to Tate Britain to absorb and dissect the Chris Ofili exhibition (pg 9). If you want to go down the more traditional route then treat your loved one to a meal at the Sir Richard Branson owned, Babylon. We caught up with their awardwinning restaurant manager, Peter Avis, Restaurant Manager of the Year (pg 7). Relationships guru, Des O’Connor shares tips on how ladies can find themselves a ‘good’ man (pg 5). Our guest writer, Micallar Walker has picked her ten most romantic DVD’s (pg 38. Our screen interview is with Gabby Sidibe (pg 37), lead star of Precious, the film that’s got everyone talking. I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome Cassam Looch to the team – our resident film buff. Other gems from this issue include an interview with spoken word artist, Inua Ellams, who makes his National Theatre debut with The 14th Tale (pg 30) – you can also win tickets to see him in action. January was an emotionally devastating month as the world looked on in horror and sadness as the mass destruction caused by the earthquake in Haiti started to unfold. So for our community section, we’ve collated information on the events taking place around London this month so you can help rebuild this country (pg 20). Check out www.comelime. com for regular updates.
Events
4
Gallery
9
Music
10
Community
20
TV/Radio
24
Comedy
27
Theatre
28
Screen
34
Clubs
40
Noticeboard
44
MCN Motorcycle Show Hip Hop Spirit in Art Idris Elba Interview Haiti appeals
The Cleveland Show Travis Jay Interview Sanaa Lathan Lime’s Hot Film’s of 2010
3 idiots
Carwash Finess First Nutritional Tips
FR
EE
IN THE MOOD FOR ISSUE 7, February 2010 in association with
L O V E
Interview with
Idris Elba
CLUBS
SCREEN
EVENTS
COMMUNITY
MUSIC
TV
THEATRE
REVIEWS
N ITIO the ET ts to MP ke e COin Ticle at theatre GALLERY
Pras
W th Ta l Th 14 tiona Na
Editor Sophia A Jackson editor@gotmedialive.co.uk Designer Kwame Adjepong Features Editor Michelle Adabra michelle@gotmedialive.co.uk Features Writer Audrey Brown audrey@gotmedialive.co.uk Contributors Cassam Looch Des O’Connor Micallar Walker Zekra Rahman Advertising and sales Dean Serieux sales@gotmedialive.co.uk Event listings info@gotmedialive.co.uk Published by Got Media Ltd www.comelime.com Lime’s on Twitter www.twitter.com/limewithus
Sophia xx LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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events Don’t Miss
12 – 17 Feb
Guanabara Presents Carnival 2010
02-03 Feb
Lewisham Dance Showcase The Lewisham Dance Showcase celebrates the talents of young people in Lewisham’s Primary and Secondary Schools. Each evening promises inspiring performances and an exciting mix of dance styles. Time: 7pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk
04 Feb-06 Mar Havana Rakatan
London’s Original and Only Annual Brazilian Carnival Celebrates Its Sixth Year with Six Days of Music and Happiness - highlights include:
• A pre-Carnival warm up party on 8th February • Full Carnival Parade on the opening night, Friday 12 Feb, led by the London School of Samba • A Masque Ball featuring Ritmos De Cidade and DJ Franco Ze Carioca • A special Valentine’s night of Forro featuring Zeu Azevedo & Forródaqui Band • Guanabara’s first ever Countrynaval, featuring a bucking bronco, line-dancing and live country music from Pé Na Estrada • Bahia Carnival Madness, complete with live music from Salvador’s Tribo, and Axé (the rhythm of Bahia) lessons • To close the Carnival there’s the fantastic Carnaval De Gafiera (Dancehall Carnival) with DJ D.Vyzor and Chico Chagas & Gafieira Brasil playing live, plus a free Gafieira dance class • And once again, Guanabara has its special extended licence for the opening weekend, with the party going on until 4am Friday 12th Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th
Guanabara, Parker Street, London, WC2b 5PW Info: www.guanabara.co.uk
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Experience the authentic heart and soul of Havana right here in London. One of Sadler’s Wells’ most successful productions, Havana Rakatan returns to the Peacock Theatre by enormous popular demand for a red hot fourth season. Originally the dream of Cuban choreographer Nilda Guerra, the show has now toured around the world where it has been enjoyed by thousands. Time: 7.30pm Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London WC2 Info: www.sadlerswells.com
03 Feb
iFactor Motivation Evening with Mindy Gibbins-Klein – Do You Keep Thinking or Talking About Writing a Book? Thoughts alone won’t make it happen. If you want to see your book in print, you need to make it a priority, make a plan, and obtain some skilful guidance to help you write the best possible book! Mindy Gibbins-Klein is the The Book Midwife™, international speaker, top book coach and leading UK writing and publishing strategist.
Time: 6.30-10pm The Thistle Hotel, City, Barbican, Central Street, London EC1V 8DS Info: www.kenbarnes. co.uk
04-07 Feb
MCN Motorcycle Show
Treat the man in your life to a day at the MCN Motorcycle Show with spectacular stunts within the Live Action Arena and magnificent motorcycles from top manufacturers including Kawasaki, Triumph, Ducati, Victory and many more. The MCN Motorcycle Show is back and set to be a monster of a show in 2010. With even more spectacular stunts within the Live Action Arena, beautiful bikes and babes from the MCN Babe and Classic Bike of the Year competitions, magnificent motorcycles from top manufacturers including Kawasaki, Triumph, Ducati, Victory and many more; it’s the perfect show to get your hands on everything you need for you and your motorcycle! The MCN Motorcycle Show will take over ExCeL, London for the fourth year running so make this event a date for your diary. Info: www. londonmotorcycleshow.com
05 Feb
Soul-D-Out A live night dedicated to showcasing the soulful best of the UK and beyond. SoulD-Out (UK) Live! provides the whole experience in plush surroundings. A two or three course meal along with live entertainment followed by the after-party. Time: 8.30pm Cottons aka Rhum Jungle, 70 Exmouth
events
The (Good) Black Man Hunt
Leading dating and life specialist, Des O’Connor gives Lime readers, five tips on how to find a good black man. He provides dating and life coaching by e-mail, telephone and one-on-one and can be hired to accompany a client to any event where he undertakes “real-time” coaching with her.
“T
o get a balanced view on relationships, speak to more men and stable married couples”
I
think the first problem with black women who have the “wrong” men in their lives is that they don’t “know” and, secondly, they don’t get to know their man before getting involved. Rather than making romantic life decisions for themselves, these women are remaining passive and being chosen by the “wrong” men. Many of my clients are so despairing about their relationships. They are angry and disappointed in the black men they meet and go on to blame the whole male gender. They are emotionally unaware of where they are in their lives and don’t really know what they want for their future. They think all their problems will be solved if they just got themselves a man - any man. And so the unhappy merry-go-round starts again.
WORDS: Des O’Connor
Here are just five tips that I 3. Let go of “issues and give my clients on how they stuff” from the past: Are can increase their chances you aware of what you of finding a good black man. carry from relationship to relationship? Have 1. Look in the right places: you worked on yourself Do you know where to by self-help reading go to meet that good books? They all say black man or are you the same thing - you leaving it all to fate? must start on yourself Most of my clients need first and only then will to know where to go you become more and what to do when successful in other they get there. parts of your life.
At my Dating and Coaching Seminars and Workshops I ask the women to reflect on themselves, how they feel, what goals they have and what has gone wrong in the past. I ask them to accept responsibility for 2. Make eye contact and their actions and teach them smile: This makes strategies on how to avoid you an instant hit with repeating the pattern. anyone receiving that smile. Even if it doesn’t Some are resistant to lead to a romantic change, but if they are open encounter, it gets you to altering the way they brownie points with manage all parts of their everyone. lives they quickly experience the benefits.
5. Do you know exactly what you want? Most women have an idea they want a man, but what type of man? What qualities and values? These and other questions need to be addressed before you plunge into a relationship. ‘s in the mood for
4. Avoid talking about men only to women: This one • Des O’Connor will be holding events on 5, is so damaging and 12 and 26 February, women don’t realise it. 2010. To get a balanced view on relationships, speak to more men and stable Info: Des O’Connor, the dating and life coaching married couples. specialist: www.DesOConnors.com
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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events Don’t Miss
Until 14 Feb
Varekai by Cirque du Soleil
Market, London EC1 Info: 0207 833 3332
06 Feb
Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Awards
Gilles P returns with quite possibly the best line-up yet for another triumphant Worldwide Awards session – this time taking over the newly refurbished Garage in Islington. With no less than 14 awesome live acts and DJs gracing the stage, plus the usual array of special guests, cameos and general tomfoolery, it’s looking like a night to remember. Time: 7pm – 4am The Garage, 20-22 Highbury Corner, London N5 1RD Info: www. gillespetersonworldwide. com/ In honour of its 25th anniversary, Cirque du Soleil will bring a London favourite –the awe-inspiring Varekai –to the Royal Albert Hall. Having amazed audiences with Quidam during its last visit to the capital, the spectacular Cirque du Soleil is set to enthral crowds again with its much-loved Varekai. The word Varekai means “wherever” in the Romany language of the gypsies – and this show promises to take any viewer wherever they dream. Deep within a forest, at the summit of a volcano, exists an extraordinary world—a world where something else is possible. A world called Varekai. From the sky falls a solitary young man and the story of Varekai begins. Parachuted into the shadows of a magical forest, a kaleidoscopic world populated by fantastical creatures, this young man sets off on an adventure both absurd and extraordinary. On this day at the edge of time, in this place of all possibilities, begins an inspired incantation to life rediscovered. This production pays tribute to the nomadic soul, to the spirit and art of the circus tradition, and to the infinite passion of those whose quest takes them along the path that leads to Varekai. Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 Info: www.cirquedusoleil.com
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10 Feb
Twenty years after Mandela walked to Freedom
Time: 7pm Frontline Club, 13 Norfolk Place, London W2 1QJ Info: www.frontlineclub. com
13-27 Feb Flamenco Festival
The crème de la crème of Spain’s flamenco talent are performing during Sadler’s Wells’ very special two week Flamenco Festival. From Rafaela Carrasco’s bold, contemporary flamenco style to Maria Pagés’ emotional rollercoaster of a show and the maestros of flamenco, Rojas and Rodriguez, with their sublime company Nuevo Ballet Espanola, famed for their heart-racing sequences, this is a unique chance to sample some authentic Spanish flamenco in London. Time: 4.30pm / 7.30pm Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN Info: www.sadlerswells. com
13 Feb Twenty years ago Nelson Mandela walked free after serving 27 years of a life sentence. As vice president of the African National Congress Party, Nelson Mandela and seven of his comrades were imprisoned in June 1964 for their opposition to the government. On the anniversary of his release the Frontline Club will be looking at the South Africa of today and discussing how it compares with the hopes and dreams of 20 years ago.
Brixtongue Brixton’s legendary performance night with poetry, music and comedy hosts the best in local, national and international talent. Previously starring performers and writers such as Russell Brand, Alex Wheatle, Yolanda Brown, Floetic Lara, Lyrical Healer, Short Man & El Crisis. So come place your bets on who will be the next international star from ‘the Tongue’s’ handpicked selection. Time: 8.30pm Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane, London SW2 1JG Info: www.picturehouses. co.uk
events The Industry Interview with Peter Avis, Restaurant Manager, Babylon
WORDS: Sophia A Jackson
E
very month, Lime likes to go into the depths of the events and entertainment industry to see who keeps it ticking over nicely. Peter Avis is restaurant manager of the Richard Branson owned, Babylon. We found out exactly why Peter’s finely tuned managerial skills led him to win the highly coveted award of ‘2009 Restaurant Manager of the Year’. And as Lime’s in the mood for love we thought you might like to know what they have in store for Valentine’s Day.
Working in the restaurant industry was a dream of yours. What was the attraction? My dream was to do hospitality and I wanted to be a chef because I love food but I ended up in front house. My grandfather was a really good chef, but for me, the reality is that I was really bad.
What does a restaurant manager do from day to day?
Communicate. My day is much about communicating with the team, management, make sure they’re delivering, talking to guests - we make every guest feel uniquely special and welcome in our restaurant, most of my day is talking. Communicating is essential.
You’re originally from Liverpool, but what was it like working in Las Vegas and Florida?
‘T
he beautiful thing about Babylon is the view. We have a stunning five course taster menu with amazing dishes and Valentine’s is going to be a romantic, relaxed evening for our couples.” It was an amazing experience. In 1993, my sister got a modelling job in Miami and her friend owned a restaurant out there and I went to work there as a waiter, then senior waiter and got trained. After three years of Miami I went to Vegas and got a job as head waiter and stayed there for nine months. Being on the Las Vegas strip at 20 was crazy. The States was very much about training, service and consistency and that has stayed with me and I understand how important it is to look after staff, provide good meals and communicate.
As Babylon is a Sir Richard Branson owned restaurant, how does it compare to other restaurants you’ve worked at?
What kind of clientele does Babylon attract – is it the kind of restaurant that you go for star gazing?
Ambience is essential to creating a positive dining experience. How do you go about creating that?
The unique thing is that it’s priced for everybody. I’ve never been about celebrity – the biggest names dine here but I don’t call the paparazzi. You’ve got the normal 9-5 customers or you get your big rich city guys who pay £100 quid per head. We offer value for money at every price code.
The Virgin group look after their staff so well. When I won the award in June he invited me to Necker Island for two weeks and I got to know Richard, Joan and the kids.
Babylon is the view. We have a stunning five course taster menu with amazing dishes and it’s going to be a romantic, relaxed evening for our couples. ‘s in the mood for
What’s the route to your heart, Peter? I’ve gone all red (laughs heartily). I’m looking for a date as I’ve never had a date on Valentine’s day. Well you’ve got to be able to make me laugh, then I can make you happy.
What’s your favourite dish at Babylon? Chef’s pork dish, served with butternut squash and parsnip and a hazelnut jus washed down with a beautiful glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Have a happy team, and a happy manager, make sure your team is fulfilled in what they’re doing as that creates a natural, happy energy. Then we do other thing like live jazz, a magician during Sunday lunch. It’s about thinking out of the box.
It’s Valentine’s Day this month – what does Babylon have in store? The beautiful thing about
• Babylon Restaurant at The Roof Gardens is part of Virgin Limited Edition – Sir Richard Branson’s private collection of retreats • Babylon is open for lunch: 12-3.00pm (last seating 2.30pm) Monday – Sunday, and dinner 7-11.00pm Monday – Saturday (last seating 10.30pm) Info: www.roofgardens. virgin.com LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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events 14 Feb
Sealed with a kiss this Valentine’s at Babylon Restaurant
14 Feb
Year of the Tiger: Chinese New Year
Come and celebrate the history of the Chinese community in east London over 300 years in a day packed with exciting and unique free events including a variety show, lion dance and craft stalls and workshops. Schedule of events: - Variety Show - two performances at 2.15pm and 3.30pm in the museum’s Wilberforce Theatre. - Lion Dance – starting at 1.30pm outside the museum with the performance lasting approximately 20 minutes and finishing inside the museum foyer. - A variety of dropin workshops will run throughout the day including water painting, Calligraphy, paper cutting and face painting alongside traditional food and craft stalls. Time: 10am to 6pm Museum of London Docklands, West India Quay, E14 4AL Info: www. museumoflondon.org.uk/ docklands
19 Feb Wine and dine your loved one this Valentine’s Day at the award-winning Babylon Restaurant at The Roof Gardens in Kensington, with breathtaking views of London’s skyline – the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. Babylon offers an exceptional Valentine’s dining package which includes a glass of champagne on arrival, four courses lovingly prepared by our head chef, a selection of the finest wines, beers and soft drinks, complete with the soothing sounds of live jazz to get you in the mood for love! Guests can choose to dine in a cosy booth for two, or a livelier spot in the heart of the restaurant, or if they want to share the love there is the option to dine with up to 12 friends in the private dining room with its own exclusive terrace overlooking the flamingo pond. The Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA Info: www.roofgardens.virgin.com
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Live at Cottons The party vibe with the vocal surprise is back for 2010. More unsigned talented acts & more party vibes with the vocal surprise. DJ’s on rotation DJ Templar, DJ Smugglar T, Station FM, DJ Don & DJ Smooth B of Rhythm Connection Sound playing the best in r&b, funky house, reggae, rares, 80s, 90s grooves music to help you enjoy the party vibes. Time: 8.30pm Cottons Bar and Restaurant, 70 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QP Info: 07932576762
26 Feb
Milbiz Events presents P’rose: A Night of Poetry in Croydon Come and enjoy an inspiring night of poetry with some of London’s finest up and coming talents. Music and open mic slots also available and as the venue is a lovely Caribbean restaurant with great food on sale, there’s no need to worry about dinner. Time: 7.30pm – 10pm Carmen’s Rose restaurant, 79 Whitehorse Road, Croydon CR0 2JJ Info: m_trigue@yahoo. co.uk
27 Feb
The Hip-Hop Pub Quiz J-Dilla Special
After packing out the first two Hip-Hop pub quizzes to the extent that we had to turn people away we have decided the time has come to move to a bigger space to accommodate the number of quizzers that want to test their grey matter at what is going to be a J-Dilla special with the entrance fees going to charity. As ever we will be basing the quiz on the typical pub quiz format but for this time around there are going to be a couple of specially J-Dilla themed rounds to mark the month in which he celebrated his birthday and tragically passed from Lupus. Prizes kindly provided by www. RapandSoulMailorder.com. Time: 5pm Big Chill House, 257-259 Pentonville Road, London N1 9NL Info: info@ thedoctorsorders.com (pre-register your team - teams limited to 6 players)
GAllery Until 28 Feb
London-Delhi 2010-2012
LONDON DELHI 2010-2012 Exhibition
their bold mixture of art, politics, games, sci-fi and storytelling rebels against the stereotypes of the Middle East. Ashery is from Israel and Sansour from Palestine. Time: Tues - Sat 11am 6pm Iniva, Rivington Place, London EC2A 3BA Info: www.iniva.org
Until 16 May
Exhibition of the month: Chris Ofili ‘Hip Hop spirit in Art’
04 Feb-03 Apr London-Delhi 2010-2012 is a digital arts collaboration between artists and young people in London and Delhi, creating and sharing contemporary stories of their two cities. LondonDelhi 2010 -2012 will draw on the different perspectives and transformations of these two cities, each with the eyes of the world upon them, as they prepare to host Delhi 2010 and London 2012. Watermans 40 High Street Brentford TW8 0DS Info: www.watermans. org.uk/exhibitions
Until 13 Mar
Progress Reports: art in an era of diversity
This multi-voiced exhibition and series of events explores interpretations of ‘cultural diversity’, reflecting the times we live in and changes to the social and cultural landscape since Iniva was founded 15 years ago. Manick Govinda from Artsadmin, Sally Lai from the Chinese Arts Centre and artist Zarina Bhimji have selected artists. Oreet Ashery and Larissa Sansour show new graphic work;
Aubrey Williams Now and Coming Time
The New Year of 2010 welcomes in two major exhibitions, in two different cities, of the work of one extraordinary international artist: Aubrey Williams. October Gallery, London and Walker Art Gallery, National Museums Liverpool, have joined forces to produce two linked and overlapping solo exhibitions of Williams work togwether with the publication of a new catalogue providing fresh insights into one of the twentieth century’s great artistic spirits. Born, in 1926, in Georgetown, Guyana, Aubrey Williams remains one of the great enigmas of twentieth-century painting. He can be seen as a colossus, bestriding the Atlantic, with feet firmly planted in two very different worlds. Yet his brilliant career remains unknown to many, unacknowledged by all but the most insightful of art critics and art historians. October Gallery, 24 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3AL Info: www. octobergallery.co.uk
Chris Ofili is without a doubt one of the UK’s most famous home-grown black artists. Having won the Turner Prize in 1998 aged 30, he now resides in Trinidad. Many of his works have been inspired by growing up in Manchester in the 1980’s, religious viewpoints and his love of hip hop culture, especially bands such as Public Enemy, KRS 1 and Eric B & Rakim. Chris’s works show many parallels with hip hop and sampling culture, remixing and re-mastering modern inspirations from art and music to create his own unique takes. He draws on his surroundings to inform his art and commentates on the state of play, exploring areas such as racism, ethnicity and identity. Lyrical content is very important within Chris’s work and he has regularly used Hip Hop titles in his works and exhibitions e.g. Devils Pie by D’angelo, The Healer by Erykah Badu and Pimpin’ aint Easy by Big Daddy Kane. To celebrate the opening of the exhibition and to make the works open to all, Tate Britain has created a special youth ticket: anyone under the age of 26 can enter the exhibition for £5 – usual price is £10 full price and £8.50 for concessions. Just bring along some ID to get this special offer. Tate Britain, Level 2 Millbank, London SW1P 4RG Info: www.tate.org.uk
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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MUSIC
RISING STAR JAYA GETS THE LOVE BUG
Y
ou can’t blame fans for being super excited about the hot new singing sensation on the block. Not only does she turn up to events dressed courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana, Jaya, 21, also has her own celebrity fans including Mobo award winning act, N-Dubz, who she has just finished supporting on tour. As Universal’s latest signing, she is breaking new ground as the first British-Indian female artist to be signed to a major record label. Wit her cheeky pop single, DJ Do It Again dropping just after Valentine’s day, LIME decided it would be a good time to grill her about love, men and romance.
Your single, DJ Do It Again will be out around the time of Valentine’s Day. How will you be spending the day? I don’t know! But I’m married to my music so maybe I’ll spend some downtime with my music. How the schedule is at the moment, it’s very rare that I’m at home for a long period of time or I get to spend quality time with my family so I would just want to spend the day reminding myself what I really love.
What’s been your most memorable Valentine’s day? It would have to have been last year when I was bit more sad than usual that I didn’t have a Valentine. Everywhere
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you go, there are teddy bears and flowers and everybody’s just being so romantic. And I came home and my mum and dad had bought me a teddy bear and my mum got me a rose, which I thought was the cutest thing in the world.
What’s the most romantic thing you have ever done for anyone?
The week before my sister got married, we did this whole pampering thing. I was going to take her to a spa but it’s just so cliché! It was just us two and we had the whole house to ourselves. I gave her massages, a rose petal bath and all this stuff her husband probably thought ‘well, I was going to do that’ but I guess I got there first! (Laughs)
WORDS Zekra Rahman
Have you found love yet?
I’m in love with my music! Honestly, we started dating long before anything.
What do you look for in a man?
Hmmm. Will Smith and Amitabh Bachchan pop into my mind! I have the biggest crushes on them!
In a battle between your heart and your mind, which one would win?
My mind but my heart would always question the decision I made, but in eight of ten situations, my mind is always the way forward. Actually, I think it’s vice versa…you’re really making me think! I’m thinking is my mind controlling this question or my heart! Maybe it’s the other way around. I now think that six out of ten times my heart would win but my mind would always question it! Good question.
What is your all time favourite love song?
I have to say an Indian one because it really is. It’s from a Bollywood film called Khuda Gawah. Infact, I would say that the whole soundtrack is probably my favourite love song. It’s beautiful.
You supported N-Dubz on their winter tour, what was that like?
Everything that I have done so far, I have been thrown in the deep end and I’ve had to pick things up very quickly. Going on the N-Dubz tour was like a crash course, we were performing in different cities, every crowd was different so I had to be on my toes all the time. But I learnt a lot about performing from them and the other artists. N-Dubz are amazing and it was a lot more fun than it was work!
Why do you think there is a lack of strong female Asian vocalists in the industry?
I don’t think there’s a lack, I just think that people don’t know about them. I’m a normal girl, I grew up in Wembley and I have not had any training, nothing special, no sprinkle on what I’m doing. So, if I can do it, there’s absolutely nothing that can get in the way.
DJ Do It Again is out on February 22. For more information, visit www.jayaworld.com
MUSIC
PAYS RESPECT TO…
Theodore DeReese “Teddy” Pendergrass 1950 – 2010 Legendary r&b composer, singer and songwriter, Teddy Pendergrass died in Pennsylvania, January 13, 2010 following a long battle with colon cancer. Pendergrass first rose to fame as lead singer of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes in the 1970s before a successful solo career at the end of the decade. In 1982, he was severely injured in an auto accident in Philadelphia, resulting in his being paralyzed from the waist down. After his injury, the affable entertainer founded the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance, a foundation that helps those with spinal cord injuries.His amazing musical legacy includes ‘Love TKO’, ‘Close the Door’ and ‘I can’t Live without your Love’. In 1989 he won the Grammy award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for, ‘Joy’. RIP, Teddy. Info: www.teddypendergrass.com
04 Feb
Aesthetic Sounds presents Choklate Indie soul singer Choklate is performing with a live band. With support from Sarah Fonteyne and Louise Golbey. And DJs Man Vs. Wife on the decks. Time: 7pm Vibe Bar, 91-95 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL Info: info@ aestheticsounds.com
05 Feb
Late at Tate Britain: Afrodizzia School of Dark Inspired by Chris Ofili’s art, Blacktronica’s Charlie Dark presents School of Dark showcasing new musical
luminaries Andreya Triana and the Speaker’s Corner Quartet with DJ sets and Dark performing his own short-story response. Time: 6.30 – 9.30pm Tate Britain, Room 9, Millbank, London SW1P 4RG Info: www.tate.org.uk UK Soul Jam ft. Heidi Vogel A celebration of UK SOUL featuring the best established and new UK Soul talent with resident DJ Paul Aaaron and DJ Kay. Time: 7pm-1am Jazz Cafe, 5 Parkway, London NW1 Info: keepthefaithful@ gmail.com / 07821 357713
06 Feb
Yaaba Funk! From the streets of South London comes this elevenpiece band that have been honing their sound over the last two years, whilst rocking (notoriously hard to please..) audiences all over London. Yaaba Funk, a product of Brixton, play a mix of classic 70’s Ghanaian Hi-Life and hard-hitting funk, cut with a strong dose of ‘Afro-broken-beat’ and more than a hint of Dub. We, at the Ritzy like them. We like them a lot. Time: 8.30pm Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane, London SW2 1JG Info: www.picturehouses. co.uk Future World Funk Future World Funk London’s longest running global dance music night now in its 11th year is very glad to welcome DJ Eric Soul for an Afrogroov special. Eric Soul has performed internationally with some of the biggest name on the Afro Urban scene from Amadou & Miriam to Femi Kuti via Keziah Jones and Afrikaa Bambaata. Time: 8pm Info: www. futureworldfunk.com
07 Feb
Catch a Fire – Feat El Fata Brixton’s longest running (and favourite) Reggae night Upstairs at the Ritzy brings you the sincere and joyous sounds of El Fata with his blend of musical styles that embrace Reggae, Funk, Dancehall, Pop, Jazz, and African beats. With his ‘Victorious Band’ behind him, you can count on a winner here. DJ Zinc Fence, as always with his well-chosen and well-loved collection of Reggae 45s.
Time: 7.30pm Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane, London SW2 1JG Info: www.picturehouses. co.uk
10 Feb
HMV Live & Mama Festivals present Next Big Thing featuring Tinie Tempah + Eliza Doolittle South-east Londoner Tinie Tempah has been nurtured and discovered by the Grime scene and featured on tracks with everyone from M.I.A to Chipmunk. The BBC said she was “placed on this planet to make music”. Eliza is going to be one of 2010’s big soul voices. Time: 7pm Heaven, 9 The Arches, Villiers St, London, WC2N 6NG Info: www.heaven-live. co.uk
11 Feb
Massive Attack in support of the Hoping Foundation
Their hypnotic sound - a darkly sensual and cinematic fusion of hip-hop rhythms, soulful melodies, dub grooves, and choice samples - set the pace for much of the dance music to emerge throughout the 1990s the pioneering force behind the rise of triphop are among the most innovative and influential groups of their generation. Time: 7pm HMV Hammersmith Apollo, London, W6 Info: www.meanfiddler. com LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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MUSIC
READY OR NOT Haitian Fugee star Pras set to take on the film world.
R
eady or not, rapper Pras Michel from the formidable hip hop group The Fugees is back – minus his band mates and ready for chart success with his new group Axixs. The Fugees stormed into the 90’s with one of the best-selling hip hop albums of all time - the multiplatinum selling second album The Score in 1996. Spurring hits such as Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not the group gained numerous music accolades including two Grammy Awards cementing The Fugees as one of the biggest selling hip hop groups ever. After disbanding in 1997 each member, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and Pras went on to pursue successful solo careers. Pras gained critical acclaim with the international hit single Ghetto Superstar in 1998, featuring the late Ol Dirty Bastard and r&b singer Mya. Although Pras caught
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the Hollywood acting bug appearing in films such as Mystery Man and Turn It Up, it is no surprise he has retracted to his first love – music. We caught up with Pras in Nigeria at the Ion Film Festival to talk films, the Fugees and the elusive Lauryn Hill.
What are you doing in Nigeria?
I am performing and showing my last documentary. I shot a documentary in 2007 called Skid Row. I just came to be a part of it the Ion Film Festival. I was actually recording but I stopped to attend this festival and just help out and to give the people a bit of inspiration.
How did being in the Fugees change your life?
It changed my life drastically; I went from a kid to travelling the world being part of this super group. It was great I wouldn’t have hanged anything.
WORDS: Audrey Brown
MUSIC
‘I
don’t think that a Fugees comeback is going to happen, but I can’t speak for the future.’
Are you still very close to Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean? I am from a distance. Everybody is busy doing his or her thing. Wycleff is finishing his album and I hear Lauryn is working on a new album. I mean if I run into them then I run into them but as far as like talking on the phone, that doesn’t happen.
There were rumours that Lauryn changed or went off the rails a bit over the last few years and was rumoured to be making a comeback –what are your views on this?
She had some things that she had to deal with. I think everyone changes or maybe it’s a thing where we all changed, it just depends how you look at it. It’s nothing but love for Lauryn hill – we all love Lauryn hill. I don’t think she will come out with a new album soon, but I heard she’s working on something. But then again she might not – I don’t really know I’m not in her daily schedule to know what’s going on.
Do you think there is a dark side to fame?
You have been off the scene for a while where have you been and what have you been up to?
I’m in the middle of recording now and I started a new group, two girls and me – we’ll be coming out this year. The group is called Axixs so we’ll have a new album called Recordtoire out this year. It’s a new group I’m excited about this group like I was when I did the Fugees. It’s going be something that I think people will want to pay attention too. It will be very interesting to see how people respond to it. The response so far has been incredible so we’ll see.
Is acting something you will continue to pursue?
I’m definitely pursuing my film career – I just finished doing my last film based on the Somali Pirates it’s actually getting finished up now – it hasn’t got a title yet as it’s still a working process – The director had the idea to call it Paper Dreams but I’m not sure yet. I was in Somalia for nine months going back and forth – so, that will be coming out in 2010. But right now my focus is on music.
What made you decide to do the documentaryfilm Skid Row where you posed as a homeless person?
A friend made me do it as the person who was supposed to do it bailed out on him so he asked me to do it.
Did you start a charity off the back of that film called PrAsperity Project? Yes I did. The film inspired me to start the charity. The charity is more of a crusader for different causes. Homelessness inspired it. I teamed up with ‘Midnight Mission’, which is an organisation that helps people who are homeless, so I raised money for that. I go back and see people and just help out. It’s not one charitable organisation that just focuses on one thing it’s a crusader for many things. Whatever I believe in at that particular moment I go and support it.
Is it likely that there would ever be a Fugees comeback?
I don’t think personally that a Fugees comeback is going to happen, but I can’t speak for the future, but if you had asked me if the Fugees would come back and do a tour in 2005 – I would have said no. So I no longer think about what can happen – This group (The Fugees) is a weird group – It does what it feels when it feels it. So maybe, I don’t know – right now I’m focusing on this new group.
Of course there is, I mean look at what happened to Tiger Woods. If he weren’t Tiger Woods no one would care. I mean everyday you face it but its perseverance to live your dream to adjust to the whole aspect of it (fame) so I don’t let it get to me.
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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MUSIC S TICKET N I W N ETITIO COMP
Wendy Walker, One Blood ft. Barry Boom, Trevor Hartley, Webby J, Wayne Marshall tribute to Bob Marley and The Original ‘Investigators’ featuring the lead vocals of Michael Gordon and Lorenzo Hall. Time: 7pm The O2, Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
13 Feb/25 Feb JLS
21 Feb
Blessed Souls UK Monthly Open Mic Show Anyone can come bless up the mic or chill if you like at Blessed Souls UK - a bless, great open mic jam, showcase night with live band. The night is hosted by growing UK artiste Adelaide Mackenzie whose first album ‘Daily Process’ is out now. Mackenzie, says: “The night is for all people at all levels and it’s inspiring, passionate and empowering in an appreciation of the arts of singing, poetry, dancing, motivational speakers and comedians“. Featuring: Bashiyra, J Orlando, Shaun Samonini and The Meds Collective. Time: 8pm – 1am Hootananny, (opposite Carpet Right), 95 Effra Road, London SW2 1DF Info: www.myspace.com/blessedsoulsuk Competition: win a pair of tickets to this month’s Blessed Souls UK Open Mic Show. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with ‘Blessed’ in the subject header by February 15, 2010.
12 Feb
The Doctor’s Orders @ Fabric ft. DJ Babu, The Nextmen, Ty, Spin Doctor and more We are kicking off our new home at Fabric with the most incredible hip hop line up any club is likely to see this year and that The Doctor’s Orders have ever presented. With a wealth of talent from both sides of the Atlantic that will be providing a full night of banging beats for what has consistently been London’s premier HipHop promotion of the last five years. Time: 10pm-5am Fabric, 77 Charterhouse Street, London EC1 Info: www. thedoctorsorders.com
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Musiq, Avant and Donell Jones A little taste of old school r&b with Donell Jones and Avant, sprinkled with a dose of “soul-lite” by Musiq Soulchild - a promising mix for this pre-Valentine’s concert. Time: 7pm IndigO2 @ the O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
13 Feb
Giants of Lovers Rock 2010 at The 02 A Valentine’s Day special including Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson, Valerie Harrison, Cool Notes, Don Campbell, John McLean, Peter Hunnigale, Mike Anthony, Blood Sisters, Donna Marie,
The r&b boy band are only the second non-winning act of The X Factor to achieve a number-one single, after second series contestant Chico Slimani. Time: 7pm HMV Hammersmith Apollo, London Info: www.meanfiddler. com
14 Feb
Sunday Acoustic (for the lovers and the singles…) ft The Fruitful Earth, Jo Hall, Lucy Jane and Phoebe Martha The Fruitful Earth have landed on this here V-day with some earthy, soulful rocking lady-roll! The Fruitful Earth will be sharing their love and music in this inevitably electrifying performance. Hand picked by Cafe Del Mar, Jo Hall has been compared to such luminaries as Joni Mitchell, Joan Armatrading, India Arie and Stevie Wonder and alongside quirky and beautiful piano sounds of Phoebe Martha and Lucy Jane – this could be the perfect romantic evening for the two, six or just one of you. We’re talking romantic and real.... not sappy! Time: 7.30pm Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane,
London SW2 1JG Info: www.picturehouses. co.uk Valentine’s Lunch with Natalie Williams and Joe Stilgoe The stage partnership between Williams and Stilgoe is becoming a much loved thing and this special show, devised for Valentines weekend will set most hearts fluttering. Time: 12pm Ronnie Scott’s, 47 Frith Street, London W1D 4HT Info: www.ronniescotts. co.uk Ne-Yo Who better to croon you through Valentine’s Day than Ne-Yo? The “gentleman of r&b” returns for more UK dates. A prolific songrwiter, Ne-Yo has penned the hits Irreplaceable (for Beyonce), Take a Bow (Rihanna), Let Me Love You (Mario) and Spotlight (Jennifer Hudson). He’s known to perform these songs on stage, along with his own hits, Miss Independent, Closer, Sexy Love and So Sick. Time: 7pm Wembley Arena, Empire Way, Wembley London HA9 0DW Info: www.ticketmaster. co.uk
18 Feb
Tinchy Stryder
Tinchy Stryder was the biggest selling UK male artist of 2009. He’s had two number one singles, a certified gold album, and owns a much-in-demand clothing line. He’s not doing too badly at all. Time: 7pm Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH Info: www.roundhouse. org.uk
MUSIC
BEING FRANK X marks the spot for Miss Frank.
T
he X-Factor series gripped the nation last year and the soulful, rap infused trio that formed the unforgettable Miss Frank were tipped as one of the favourites at the beginning of the series. The Miss Frank ladies entered the show as solo artists but did not make the final cut until judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Cole, Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue put the three girls Graziella Affinita, 25, Shaniece Davis, 21, and Shar Alexandra, 25, together. After being voted off the show, it seemed Miss Frank’s dreams of super stardom had come to an abrupt end. Lime caught up with the Miss Frank girls at the launch of The Gatwick Factor at London Gatwick Airport, which helped to raise money for Great Ormond Street over the Christmas period.
Following the end of the X-Factor will the band be staying together? Graziella: Yes
Are you signed to a record label?
Shaniece: No, not at the moment.
Do you all get along – was it hard to bond in the beginning?
Graziella: That’s the thing about us when we first got together we chose each other to do a task so we did that because we became friends and we automatically hit it off. We created a sisterhood between us so as much as you get along with your sister is as much as we get along with each other.
Do you think it will be hard to be a successful female group in the UK? Graziella: I think it’s a
‘T
he music industry isn’t as easy as everyone thinks it is or it seems.’
challenge and the music industry isn’t as easy as everyone think it is or it seems. I think that we will have to continue to work hard. I don’t think we feel threatened by any other sort of female musicians at the moment because it’s like; we do bring something completely different to the table we all are quite raw, we’ve got that element of rap, we have the element of another language, we have the element of dance and so many different genres that project us forward and we bring it all to the table. So I just think there is a gap for us in the market – not trying to be big headed but I’m just saying that I think we have what it takes to be successful but I think its down to us to put our heads together and keep on keeping on and not play around and make sure that we get what we want.
What have the band been doing since being voted of the X-Factor?
Shaniece: We’ve been touring all over England in a load of bars; we’ve done universities and corporate dinners and at the minute we’re just recording to see if we can find our own sound and we’re here at Gatwick doing the Gatwick X-Factor and it’s a charity event for Great Ormond Street which
WORDS: Audrey Brown
is really cool and we’ve been doing a lot of charity things along with the single ‘Hero’ that we did which went to number one. Graziella: We’re quite happy to be involved with a lot of charities because the causes that it goes towards are close to home. Because I have younger brothers and I just feel that children need as much help as they can get. Along with building a school in Kenya for kids that find it hard to be educated. We also recently did a Sunshine charity event for terminally ill kids whose last wishes were to see certain people perform.
How did you feel when you were voted off the X-factor? Graziella: Your initial
reaction is to be quite
disappointed. We were like of gosh we are up against Danyl Johnson. It was quite sad that we had to leave but sadder leaving everyone behind than what the situation was because you become like a family.
What was the best part of the X-Factor? Shaniece: My best time was meeting all the other stars and getting all the advice from them about we can improve and make ourselves a better group and what they think of us after we sang to them. That was the most memorable part.
What are your plans for the future?
Graziella: We’re working together to put an album together with all our different sounds. LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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MUSIC
ALTER EGO
A-List Brit actor Idris Elba reveals his musical side.
Y
ou may recognise Idris Elba from his long and impressive list of acting credits (Obsessed, American Gangster, Revolver and the upcoming Marvel blockbuster Thor), however the man who played the much loved character Stringer Bell in cult US show The Wire, is about to take on a different kind of challenge. ‘Driis’ is the musical alter-ego of the Hackney bred star, who has been carving out a name in music for years, producing, performing and DJing. In fact ‘Driis’ actually began his showbiz career in music as first, a pirate radio DJ and MC based in east London and later as a producer. You’ll even find Driis production credits on soundtracks and albums dating back to 2005, including work with Angie Stone and Jay-Z on the seminal American Gangster album. Now with his own label Hevlar, a new EP High Class Problems out and a debut album in the works - Idris Elba/ Driiss is looking to put the heart back into soul music. We caught up with the busy actor/artist to discuss music, fame and yes Lime readers, because you asked – what he looks for in a woman.
What made you want to pursue music?
There were various stages in that decision. The first one being, it was part of my family. My uncle and basically my whole family did music and we all like music, so it was a natural thing for me to be in that environment. I guess I just like to do it, I like to create it, I like to perform – the whole thing. Now as I juggle between one career and music, the music is actually freedom for me. I’m in my own space and I’m my own boss. My music is 16 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
eclectic; I mean I’m definitely not going to be Mr popular because my music doesn’t fit into any particular pigeon hole but I’m cool with that. Some of my favourite albums have never been heard on the radio.
Why make an album?
I mean I’ve done two EPS now, this being the second one so it was a natural progression. You can get away with three or four songs on an EP as an introduction but I think it’s important to release an album to back up what your intentions are. I’m looking forward to putting this album together.
What was the inspiration behind High Class Problems?
The inspiration was growth. My first EP Big Man was a rap compilation which had its roots in soul but it was more about my spoken word but on High Class Problems I wanted to experiment with the vibe of singing. This EP was built over a year and a half over different periods. Of late I’ve been listening to a lot of older stuff and a lot of reggae and I can hear that in my vocals.
Do you think people judge actors/singers who cross professions harshly?
Yeah people are not very accommodating to that at all and I can understand it but at the same time I think that if someone has talent and they’re real and honest with it and its good then they should be given a chance. If it’s good, why are you gonna hate on it? Look at Drake, he’s a fantastic actor, he was acting a long time before music but he also just happened to have a dope flow and people are still saying he’s doing too much.
How are you dealing with being famous?
There’s good and there’s bad, if I’m being honest with
you it doesn’t really effect me that much as I don’t think of myself as famous. The only time I may think that is if I go into a place and everyone goes, ‘oh sh*t, there’s Idris Elba!’ I mean I did the film Obsessed with Beyonce and it made $80 million – that’s a lot of people that went to see that film but it doesn’t affect me too much. It’s just human beings and it’s just a movie (laughs). I mean I get to reap the benefits from it, I’ve been lucky enough to do some great things in my life like travel but the whole fame thing doesn’t impress me much.
You’ve got a quite a few films coming out this year. Can you tell me about The Losers and the heist film, The Takers?
The Losers was a DC comic originally and it’s about soldiers who get wrongly accused and ostracised from society and fight to find their way back in. It’s a great film, full of action – the director did a really cool job of turning it from comic to live action. The Takers is a heist film which has taken an old school genre and given it that modern touch (see Lime’s Hot Films of 2010). It has a huge cast, I play an English bank robber who is a real cockney but my crew is American. The film is really big and sexy.
‘s in the mood for
What is the most romantic thing you have ever done?
IDRIS: I’m not the most romantic guy I have to say but my girl was on a train one day and I jumped in front of the train with a big bunch of roses and the driver stopped; I jumped on the train and give them to her and that is a true story.
MUSIC
‘N
ow as I juggle between one career and music, the music is actually freedom for me’.
LIME: Are you serious?
IDRIS: I will never tell! We asked Lime readers to put their questions to Idris Elba.
What do you look for in a woman?
WORDS: Michelle Adabra
Confidence and I like kind people who make you feel nice. Some women come with a lot of angst and they put you in a box before you even open your mouth. I like a sexy woman who is not afraid to be sexy and sexual, at the end of the day if you have a nice body you shouldn’t be afraid to show it off. There’s nothing wrong with that - it’s your body.
When was the last time you felt shy?
I’m a shy person by nature, so today. Sometimes I’m a little controlled and I won’t be myself especially when I’m doing interviews but I’ve done a lot of them now, so I guess I’m probably just a little frightened of being judged.
Do people still call you Stringer Bell and does it annoy you?
Yes and sometimes it is, my
name is Idris (laughs) but at the end of the day a lot of people still don’t know my name. Someone asked me earlier ‘why are you doing music?’ and I said, ‘do you think the public know my real name?’ The truth is they don’t, so I get to reinvent myself a little bit.
What’s been your most challenging role so far?
It was in a film called Sometime in April and I played Captain Morganza who was a Rwandan solider who had to hide his family from being killed. We shot it in Rwanda and it took four months to make that film and I had to speak the language and everything.
Can you cook?
Yes I can. I season up my meat good; I make my rice and my stews. My mum taught me how to cook African style stews so yeah, I can throw it down. • High Class Problems Vol 1 is out 8 Feb 2010 (see our review page). • The new single Private Garden (Produced by 9th Wonder) is out now. LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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MUSIC events that will be held in the heart for years to come. Time: 9.45pm Soho Theatre, 21 Dean Street, London, W1D 3NE Info: 020 7478 0100
05/06/27 May Black Eyed Peas
27-28 Feb
Noisettes Two years on from a debut album awash with punk spirit and scorching bluesrock, the London trio will perform their signature set of sleek pop songs steeped in soul and dizzy on disco harking back to the days of the blues and jazz greats. Time: 7pm Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH Info: www.roundhouse. org.uk The Black Eyed Peas announce the UK leg of their eagerly awaited The E.N.D world tour. The O2, Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
20 Feb
African Soul Rebels The African Soul Rebels tour returns with a triple bill of the continent’s finest talent including Oumou Sangare, Orchestre Poly Rythmo de Cotonou and Kalahari Surfers. Time: 8pm Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS Info: www.barbican.org.uk
22-24 Feb
Mica Paris After 22 years in the business, and five albums, the UK’s Soul Queen is back and ready to wow us again with songs from her latest acclaimed album, Born Again. Time: 7pm Ronnie Scott’s, 47 Frith Street, London W1D 4HT Info: www.ronniescotts. co.uk
24 Feb
Corinne Bailey Rae Corinne Bailey Rae is making an awaited comeback. 18 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Herperformances on Live with Jools Holland and at the Tabernacle in Novembe got rave reviews. She will sing songs from her sophomore album, The Sea. Time: 7pm O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Shepherds Bush Green, London, W12 8TT Info: www. o2shepherdsbushempire. co.uk
24-27 Feb Krystle Warren
Teddy Riley & Blackstreet Ultimate Boogie Nights returns with Teddy Riley & Blackstreet’s first UK performance since 1995. They’ll perform classic tracks including No Diggity and Don’t Leave Me. Tickets include an after-party until 2am. Time: 7pm IndigO2 @ The O2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
25/26/28 April Whitney Houston
Coming soon… 05 Mar
Angie Stone Angie Stone emerged on the scene ten years ago with the sultry Black Diamond which contained the hit ballad No More Rain (In This Cloud) and collaborations with Lenny Kravitz, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Stone’s ex-boyfriend d’Angelo. She later cracked the US Top 40 with the hit Brotha from her sophomore album Mahogany Soul. Her latest albums, Stone Love, The Art of Love & War and Unexpected further cemented her status. Time: 7pm HMV Hammersmith Apollo, Queen Caroline Street, London W6 9QH Info: www.ticketmaster. co.uk
20 Mar Krystle Warren the person is not vaguely theatrical but Krystle live owns the stage as she loses herself in the moment applying her extraordinary vocal talent to her own songs and to any others that take her fancy. Her four solo sessions (with surprise guests) at Soho Theatre promise to be
02 April
50 Cent Multi-platinum selling hip hop star 50 Cent is performing in the UK. Expect a testosterone-fuelled set and bouncy tunes such as In the Club, Candy Shop, P.I.M.P or How We Do. Time: 7pm Wembley Arena, Empire Way, Wembley, London HA9 0DW Info: www.ticketmaster. co.uk
Whitney is adding more dates to her highly anticipated tour due to popular demand. This is her first major tour in more than 11 years. The concerts will be the must see shows of this decade as she returns to the stage to perform classic hits alongside her latest songs. 02 Arena, London Info: www.theo2.co.uk
10/11 May
Rihanna Rihanna returns to The O2. The O2, Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
25/26 May
Alicia Keys 12 time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys will be touring the UK in May 2010 as part of her pan European Tour. The O2, Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX Info: www.theo2.co.uk
MUSIC
HIT MAKER International producer and songwriter Wayne Wilkins has been involved with some of the biggest tracks to come out in 2009.
W
ayne Wilkins dreamed about being a successful producer/song writer but never imagined that he’d be involved with international top ten records with top selling artists. The classically trained pianist – who also has a degree in physics – studied at The London College of Music but decided to pursue a career in pop. He secured a job at EMI Studios and worked as a programmer for Mark Spent, learning the ropes on tracks by producers and writers such as Oasis, Rodney Jerkins, Timbaland, Madonna, U2 and No Doubt.
WORDS: Michelle Adabra
He has since amassed an impressive list of credits that include Cheryl Cole’s Fight For This Love, Beyonce’s Sweet Dreams, Shontelle’s T-Shirt and Natasha Bedingfield’s These Words. Currently living in LA, he has teamed up with the Brixton based, music apprenticeship scheme Music4Good to conduct a master-class for aspiring students. Lime caught up with the uber talented songwriter to talk music, hits and Cheryl Cole!
How did you get into music?
I was doing a degree in physics but studied at the Royal College of Music as well. So in the evening I was doing classical or jazz concerts and in the day I’d be working on my degree. When I finished both qualifications I knew I wanted to do pop music, the stuff that was commercial drew my attention.
Is there a formula for the perfect pop song? There is actually a formula and there are a couple of song writers who stick to their way of doing stuff, so they may repeat certain
‘B
attlefield for Jordan Sparks was originally meant for Chris Brown and Rhianna. Then literally the next day the whole thing happened.’
things or use two hit sections or a certain melody or whatever. I can’t work like that; I’ve got to get excited about something.
When you write a song do you instantly know who it’s for?
great, I hadn’t really thought about standing in front of kids before but I’ve always wanted to write about the music industry, there’s so much to learn. There are so many books on the industry but in many cases they are not written by people who actually work in the industry. I’d like to pass on my experiences if I can and maybe some inside knowledge.
So how did Cheryl Cole’s Fight For This Love come about?
Now that was a completely different scenario. I knew people who worked with Cheryl who were looking for tracks for her. One evening a bunch of us got together, I pulled up a bit of music and we tried different things and within two hours that song was there. We passed on the demo to her A&R and instantly her camp said we want this.
The song seemed to reflect her personal life perfectly, were you aware of her from the tabloids? It was just good timing. We just happened to have the right song at that moment. I knew that song would be a big hit there was something about it. In fact the finished track sounds a lot different from the demo because the key was changed to fit Cheryl’s voice - I think Cheryl herself made it a hit because she gave it that pop feel. The same thing happened when we did Sweet Dreams for Beyonce, I knew it was going to be a huge hit.
We all get sent lists from publishers as to who is looking for what and it will tell you who the labels are and who the artists are and what kind of song they are looking for. After we did • Music4Good is an Natasha Bedingfield I lot of industry led initiative labels would say, ‘we want overhauling the way a Natasha Bedingfield track’ work experience works but for me it doesn’t really within the UK music work like that because I end industry, and opening up with songs that are so up opportunities for obviously trying to be that, accredited, mentored, they lose their honesty. structured and paid training placements How did you get involved for young people from with Music4Good? turbulent backgrounds. A friend of mine told me • Info: www.music4good. about it and it sounded co.uk
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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Community 2010 Haiti Earthquake How You Can Help
O
n the January 12, 2010, a massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake devasted Haiti just ten miles from the capital city of Port-au-Prince. Haiti became the world’s first black-led republic and the first independent Caribbean state when it threw off French colonial control and slavery in a series of wars in the early 19th century. Following the earthquake which has caused mass devastation it is feared that the death toll could reach 200,000. See below for how you can do your bit to help.
You can make a direct donation to the United Haitians in the UK relief effort using the following bank details: United Haitians in the UK account HSBC Acc No: 12288990 Sort Code: 40-25-02 Info: www.uhuk.org and to keep up to date on fundraising events
Hope for Haiti: www.hopeforhaitinow.org The Disasters Emergency Committee: www.dec.org.uk Wyclef Jean’s Yele Haiti foundation: www.yele.org. The International Red Cross website is: www. ifrc.org ActionAid donations can be made at: www. actionaid.org The Global Orphan Project: www. theglobalorphanproject.org Operation Blessing International: www. community.ob.org Medecins Sans Frontieres: www.msf.org.uk Haitian Health Foundation: www. haitianhealthfoundation.org Feed My Starving Children: www.fmsc.org Food for the Poor: www. foodforthepoor.org
SOUTH LONDON: Unit 6, Farrell Court, Elephant Road, SE17 1LB SOUTH WEST LONDON: The Big Yellow Self Storage, Units 1-3 Wyvern Estate, Beverley Way, New Malden, KT3 4PH
20 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
The United Haitians in the UK are collecting clothing, shoes, candles tents, sleeping bags, tablets for clean drinking water, school and medical supplies. Here are some of the drop off points:
EAST LONDON: Voice Of Africa Radio, 24 Swete Street, (Off Plaistow High St) Plaistow E13 OBS www. voiceofafricaradio.com / 0208 471 9111 WEST LONDON: DJED Cultural Bookstore, Adelaide Grove, Shepherd’s Bush NORTH LONDON: Chestnut Community Centre, St Ann’s Road, Tottenham, N15 5BN / 07852 937 981 and The Big Yellow Self Storage, Finchley East, Finchley, London N2 8HS Haiti Appeal Fundraising Events
Haiti Appeal Fundraising Events 05 Feb
Salsa and Zouk Love Presents Help for Haiti Help for Haiti is being organised by UK Salsa and Zouk Love, supported by the other major AfroCaribbean dance groups in the UK. For one unique night, some of the best DJs, teachers and performers in the country, together with dancers of all levels, will come together with the shared aim of raising as much money as possible for the stricken Haitian people. The Colosseum Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall, London Rise up Haiti Help raise money for Haiti with a collective of London’s finest Afro Funksters. Featuring: Yaabafunk,
Grupo Lokito, Afrikabawantu and Soothsayers. DJ’s on the night include Africathy, ManvsWife, Cal JAder, Chief Commander Yaaba Mr Brett, Volta 45, Suga Kann and Jerome Manicom. A film screening based on Haiti will be shown prior to the performance with a speech from the film’s director. All funds from this benefit will go directly to Haiti in its hour of need. Time: 8.30pm-1.30am The Empowering Church, 1a Wesgate Street, Off Mare Street, London E8 3RL
12 Feb
Belated for Haiti Belated is joining forces with Oxfam to raise money for the Haiti Earthquake Appeal Fund. Belated will be donating 25 per cent of entry and all proceeds donated goes directly to Haiti, with no administration costs. Do something for your brothers and sisters in
community BOOK NOW
Presenting workshop
you’ll be coming too - one way or another. Time: From 6pm Bar Surya, 156 Pentonville Road, London N1 9JL Info: misterohyes@ yahoo.co.uk
15 Feb
14 Feb
Amplified presents “We Love Marvin” - A Haitian Fundraiser A celebration of the music of the late great Marvin Gaye with all proceeds from the event being donated to Haitian Relief fund. The first 2010 AMP live sessions with full live band. Time: 7pm – 12am City Arts and Music Project, 70-74 City Road, London EC1Y 2BJ Info: www.amplified-online.co.uk need. Expect all the usual boogilicious fun and big party tunes from soul and funk to soulful house and hip hop, from dancehall and dubstep to electro, Latin and garage. It’s all there. Time: 8pm-3am Lati Ri Bar, Rivington Place, off Rivington Street London EC2A 3BE Info: www.belatedpeople. com
20 Feb
The Return of the Afrimantic Dance Bringing the black man and woman together – the number one love affair for couples and singles alike. Your DJ’s: AmeN Noir and Natural Mystic playing 80’s and 90’s classics, reggae dance hall, soul, r&b, soca, hip life, funky house and Afrobeat. With PA’s and prize give-aways and 10 per cent of proceeds go to Haiti Appeal. Time: 9pm-late Palm Bliss Restaurant and Wine Bar, 706 Leabridge Road, London
E10 6AV Info: www. bestkeptsecretbks.com
25 Feb
The Haiti Earthquake Fundraiser An extraordinary programme of live performances in support of the humanitarian aid efforts of both ActionAid and Médecins Sans Frontières – 100 per cent of money raised will be donated. First acts announced include Nate James, Seasick Steve, Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, Magic Numbers, Mr Hudson, The Futureheads and Bombay Bicycle Club. DJ sets from The Maccabees, Zero 7, Mat Horne and Kate Nash. Presenters include Lucy Porter, Edith Bowman, Harry Shearer, Marcus Brigstocke, George Lamb and Rick Edwards. Time: 6pm Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH Info: www.roundhouse. org.uk
By popular demand Rosmeary Laryea is running presenting workshops for those who want to excel in their presenting skills. You may have your eye set on becoming a presenter/ broadcaster, you may want to improve your presentation skills for the meeting room or boardroom, or you may want to communicate your service/brand to a potential investor. Whatever your reason you can learn how to be an effective communicator and have the confidence to present to a wide range of people. Want to master the art of presenting? Contact rosemary_laryea@hotmail. com or phone 07961 049241 for more information.
05 Feb
Little Black Book Launch The Little Black Book Launch is the unveiling of London’s hottest book of the year. Little Black Book is a collection of short stories about everyday people engaging in the sexier side of life in London’s black community. With stories representing north, east, south and west London, the Little Black Book is something a little different. Held at Bar Surya, Kings Cross, mysterious author Mr Oh will be selling copies of the Little Black Book as well as reading dripping wet sections in a way you won’t find in the book itself. There will also be the opportunity to win a mystery prize, only available at the launch. But what you have to do for it might interest you. So, with Valentines Day on the way, why not come down and make sure that, on Feb 14th,
The London Black Expressions Meetup Group: Diversity within the Black CommunityCan WE Handle It? With guest Speaker: Ajamu, photographer, community activist and co-founder of Rukus. February is LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) month and Black Expressions will discuss the issue of sexual identity within the black community. The issue of multiple black identities will be explored - can one identify as gay and black and be socially accepted? Or is it one or the other? How much do we acknowledge the presence of the black LGBT community as part of the community? Time: 7pm Commonwealth Club, 25 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5AP Info: www.meetup.com/ londonblackexpressions
27 Feb
Talkin Blues: a Relationship Conference for Men and Women Fed up of the silent treatment? Don’t know where you stand in the relationship? Can’t stand the gameplaying? What do men and women expect from each other? An open forum to discuss what is bothering you about relationships. Hosted by Lady Loy and Claudette Stapleton. Time: 5pm – 7pm Ashanti House, 93b Marsh Road, Luton LU3 2QG Info: talkinbluesforum@ aol.com LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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Community
Petal Power Image credit: Richard Lea-Hair
W
ith Valentine’s Day taking place on February 14 – what images come to mind apart from cards, Cupid and hearts? Flowers of course, Lime chatted heartily to Lauren Craig who thinks flowers all day, every day.
Why did you want to work with flowers?
WORDS: Sophia A Jackson
Originally it stemmed (pun not intended) from wanting to move out of mainstream society I’d become disenfranchised with the way the world was moving. It was 2000, I was reading ‘No Logo’ by Clime to Klein, which is an anti-America, and establishment way of living. I finished my degree in marketing and advertising and wanted to move into a more creative output and learn a trade to travel the world. Also, at that time I had witnessed a lot of street violence, murders and gun and knife crime so I wanted to work with something positive that would make me feel healed and centred. I’d also become business savvy and wanted to learn something creative that I could capitalise on.
Where does your inspiration come from as your work differs greatly to many of the floral designers that are out there?
It comes from life. It comes with my connection to the life cycle, composting is as a way to replenish the earth, a want to stop the rape and over use of the earth. It comes from visual culture, walking the street, people’s faces I see, conversations I have. People come to me because they want something different but 22 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
community
‘L
ove is a universal emotion, and it’s feelings and energy that keep us together and that can be expressed using any flower’.
the whole client/customer relationship is about creating something for them and from them. I prefer to meet the client, see what makes them smile in order to make something for them. It’s about the connection to the client.
Being self-employed can be tough let alone when the financial climate is as it is. How are you coping?
Thinking Flowers has been lucky as it was constructed as a consultancy and a micro-organisation so is adaptable for change; people want to know more about this subject so the placement and timing is great. Flowers are a luxury item and you pay a premium price for an ethical product. I’ve retrained and diversified as a flower essence therapist. It wasn’t even a market until I made it. The current method is similar to the 1930 Bach flower therapies – historically it stems from there, but they have been made in Africa since the beginning of time.
I’ve done some Facebook snooping and you seem to have some interesting projects on the go. What are you working on at the moment?
At the moment, I’m working on a documentary that investigates an alternative structure to the flower industry with three professors at three universities, Middlesex, Durham and Newcastle. We have funding to focus on the Cape Flora Kingdom, South Africa – they’re the leaders in sustainable harvest and ethical flowers.
How can Lime readers be more ethical in their flower buying?
It’s initially about being conscious as a consumer by looking for labels such as Fair Trade and Fair Flowers. There are certain accreditations that farmers have to abide by that applies to human rights and workings rights with Fair Flowers and Fair Plants that applies to the environment also like low pesticides; irrigation system is made to certain accreditation and has been drained from good sources.
It’s Valentine’s Day this month – is this the time when your bank account looks healthiest?
(Laughs). I would love to say ‘yes’. It’s a difficult question, Valentine’s day is about bouquets and we’re not an e-commerce company. It’s not as healthy as you would think it is. We get commissioned to do bouquets for the local Brixton area, where we deliver, lots of repeat orders.
Roses are so obvious when it comes to romance. How can Lime readers think out of the box and impress their loved ones this Valentine’s Day? Hard question. One, roses are extremely expensive around Valentine’s day but they are the flower that most signifies love. At the moment, roses are the biggest fair trade flower – so they’re a goer for that reason. However, love is a universal emotion, and it’s feelings and energy that keep us together and that can be expressed using any flower.
What flower would you use to express your love?
A King Protea – South Africa’s, national flower. It’s one of the highest priced ethical flowers, and it grows in the King Flora Kingdom in Table mountain. The essence, vibration of the flower is used for protection, when people feel safe and protected they feel more able to love. If fearful, they feel the need to close down and express themselves. It’s also very stately, complex, and a high visual impact flower. You could buy a few or three and add some Pussy Willow or Dog Wood and that’s it – minimal, modern but still loving.
As an insider, can you give Lime readers some tips on buying flowers and getting the best value for money? Ideally, head to Covent Garden Flower Market for
the experience of a flower market which opens at 2am to 10am; go to Bloomfield of London and Porters Foliage and speak to the staff. Barter, shop around, have a connection to the seller. The best value for Valentine’s day is something extravagant and scented like a Casablanca Lilly.
‘s in the mood for
How does someone capture your heart?
In general, I’m a loving person so my heart’s often open. What touches me about people is thought. On a deeper level, it’s a day we express to one another, friends, families, peers and neighbours – it’s not just about romantic love. Love is closely connected to the ability to create peace and bring light into our world – love has no price, it’s not connected to our spending ability. Have love in your thoughts and feelings as it doesn’t have to be directed by consumerism. The way to my heart is through honesty, expression and sensitivity. Info: www.thinkingflowers. org.uk The Field We are opening a collaborative space called the Field on 6 February, a pop up space and there you can find Thinking Flowers, Thinking Therapies and come and get flower essence therapy treatment – for minor emotional or mental issues i.e. stuck in life and looking for an opening for a new channel; using talking therapy, then you get an essence to take away to deal with those issues. It takes an hour. You can also get business therapy and this takes an inside out approach. We are provisionally there for four months. Time: 9am-5pm, Mon-Sat; Weds - close at 3pm.
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TV/Radio TV TV LISTINGS
RADIO LISTINGS
Don’t Miss
From early
Feb
The Cleveland Show The Cleveland Show sees Cleveland Brown, everyone’s favourite soft-spoken neighbour from the much loved ‘Family Guy’, get his own show. The hotly anticipated animated series sees Cleveland and his 14-yr-old son, Cleveland JR waving goodbye to his old friend Peter Griffin and relocating to his hometown in Virginia. The reason is a simple one. Love has given him a second chance and called him back to his roots, as Cleveland and his high school flame Donna, are about to rekindle their old school romance. Once in Virginia, Cleveland meets his new family; Donna’s rebellious teenage daughter Roberta and her 5 year old young son Rallo who already has an eye for the ladies. He is also greeted by a collection of neighbours that includes loudmouth redneck, Lester, a hipster wanna-be, Holt; and a family of talking bears, including Tim and his wife Arianna. Info: E4
Starts this month
Chinese Food in Minutes Beginning on Five this week is a brand new series focusing on the joys of Chinese cookery, presented by glamorous young chef Ching-He Huang. In each episode, Ching coaches two novices who have never before cooked Chinese food. Can she separate the Szechuan supremos from the dumpling dunces? In the first instalment, two gospel singers cook up a storm. Chinese food was recently declared the nation’s favourite takeaway. With more and more people turning to the joys of cooking at home, chef and bestselling author Ching-He Huang is set to bring her mouth-watering recipes into British homes. In each episode, Ching prepares three delicious versions of authentic Chinese dishes and takeaway classics. Watching her are two participants who have never attempted to cook Chinese cuisine before. Ching’s students will try to reproduce the recipes they have been taught and cook a fabulous feast to serve to their friends at the end of the show. Info: CH5
On now, online
EastEnders E20 See Albert Square like you’ve never seen it before - through the eyes of four teenagers - exclusively on the EastEnders website. Info: www.bbc.co.uk/eastenders/e20/ 24 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Weekdays
Moira Stuart’s Back - The Chris Evans Breakfast Show Moira Stuart will exclusively read the news bulletins during the programme. Time: 7.00 – 9.30 Info: BBC Radio 2 Colourful Radio: Colourful Life with Rosemary Laryea – Feb 2010 Old school to new school music with some engaging chat including: • The annual Flamenco Dance Festival is back at the Sadler’s Wells. Cast members will be popping into the studio to tell me more • The month of love. Relationship expert, Hilton Samuel will share the ‘Right Man Plan’ / ‘Right Woman Plan’ with singletons. • Walt Disney presents the Princess and the Frog, animated family fun, starring a black princess! Film critic, Emerson Forde will be reviewing. Time: 10am – 1pm. Info: www.colourfulradio.com
Every Saturday
Asian Star 101.6FM: The Grapevine with Zekra Find out who’s creating a buzz in Bollywood, get the latest on the urban and British Asian music scene, and plan your perfect Saturday night out. Time: Sat, 6-9pm Info: www.asianstar1016.co.uk
Every Sunday
The Sherry Dixon Show Sherry Dixon is back for the New Year on air and online every Sunday afternoon. She’s had some great guests and interviews including Nia Long, celebrity chef Colin Brown and the man that ladies love to hate, Des O’Conner, as well as Angie Le Mar and Linford Christie. Time: 12-2pm. Info: www.bangradio.fm / 103.6fm
REVIEW Album review: Alicia Keys - Element of Freedom Words: Sophia A Jackson Release date: out now Lime rating:
I have been listening to Alicia’s new album every day for the last two weeks. When I’m walking, when I’m working or cooking, ‘Element of Freedom’ has been with me. I absolutely love it. Being an emotionally charged individual means that I’ve found meaning and resonance with many of the tracks on the 12-time Grammy award winner’s album. It features production by Alicia Keys, Kerry “Krucial” Brothers, Jeff Bhasker, Swizz Beatz, and Noah “40” Shebib. With Valentine’s Day this month – you need this in your life. Tracks to take note of: 03 Doesn’t Mean Anything, 04 Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart, 06 That’s How Strong My Love Is, 08 Love Is My Disease, 11 This Bed. • The single, Empire State Of Mind (Part II ) Broken Down is out on February, 22.
Album review: Toni Braxton – Pulse Words: Michelle Adabra Release date, February 2010 on Atlantic Lime rating:
Finally Miss Braxton is back. After several set backs, the songstress is ready to deliver a solid sounding LP. Sounding as good and velvety as ever, the singer’s vocals (unlike another diva) are unaltered, if anything her voice sounds even richer and impassioned. Flying the flag for women all over – Toni’s anthem Woman is an inspirational ballad and displays the vocals we all know and love. Make My Heart is a sexy, up-tempo dance track – incredibly catchy and has the potential to produce a great video. Hands Tied is another sultry gem and a definite album highlight. Yesterday the first single to be taken from the LP also features the vocal talents of Trey Songz and is a infectious mid-tempo, r&b joint – a good track but perhaps not a great track and we only want greatness from Miss B! A welcome returns for Toni Braxton - a good yet safe album from one of the most distinctive voices of a generation, add Pulse to your collection.
EP Review: Driis - High Class Problems Vol 1 Words: Michelle Adabra Release: 8 Feb 2010 Lime rating:
Many actors have made the transition into singers (and vice versa) now A-List actor Idris Elba (The Wire, Obsessed, American Gangster and the upcoming Marvel blockbuster Thor). Releasing the EP High Class Problems on his own independent label Hevlar Recordings was always going to be a gamble, however Driis pulls it off with all the smoothness of his records. Moving with ease between soul, reggae, hip-hop and jazz, High Class Problems boasts a rich, eclectic sound which sees Driis singing openly. Having written or co-written all of the tracks alongside some of the most talented names in the business (9th Wonder, Pete Rock) the resulting sound is sensual, soulful and about as infectious as the flu. Proving that he has several aces up his sleeves, High Class Problems showcases Driis’ maturity as an artist as well as his wide musical palette. Put away all of your preconceptions and let the music do the talking - expect to be pleasantly surprised. • The new single Private Garden (Produced by 9th Wonder) is out now.
The Lime Restaurant Review: Public House Words: Michelle Adabra Lime rating:
I arrived at Public House on a bitterly cold January evening and was stunned by the warmth of the décor, staff and the menu. There’s nothing like being greeted with a warm mug of sweet, mulled cider with spicy hints of nutmeg and cinnamon and an extra kick of Scotch to warm your cockles. A perfect place for a Valentine’s date, the decor is reminiscent of an American 1940s lounge bar. It’s all candles and mirrors, dimly lit and full of tiny touches that make it truly unique. I loved the piano – which to my delight – was being played. I opted for the ham hock with marmalade and rosemary scones for starters – a real treat. The savoury scones were delicious and the ham hock was succulent and filling. I chose the beef stew for my main which was possibly some of the tenderest beef I have ever eaten. Served with a creamy suede mash – the two complimented each other perfectly, with the mash lightening some of the deep, intense flavour from the stew. Dessert, was sadly the only disappointment on what was overall a wonderful meal. The toffee pudding although moist, came unaccompanied, and was a little too rich for my palette. • Public House, 54 Islington Park Street, N1 1PX
Info: www.boutiquepubs.com
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Comedy 08 Feb
Don’t Miss
Catch Me Cupid
26/27 Feb Stephen K Amos
Hosted by MTV Base Comedian, Kojo with live music from DJ Longers. Live music performance from TJ Lewis. Speed dating session. Ages 21-35. Sick and tired of raving to meet Mr or Miss Right? Well this is the place to be to meet plenty of sexy singles all in one night. Send names to 7956 338 625. Time: 8pm – 12am Corks Wine bar, Binney Street, London Info: siobhan@funnybizz. co.uk
11 Feb Stephen K Amos is back with his third solo stand-up comedy tour of the UK and it’s a brand new show for 2010. It’s full to bursting with more fun, warmth, bonhomie and love than ever before. Forget the credit crunch and welcome to the ‘feel-good’ factor! Time: 7pm HMV Hammersmith Apollo, London, W6 Info: www.meanfiddler.com
EVERY MONDAY 07 Feb Free comedy: Theatre Royal Stratford East Bar
01 February - Paul
Savage, Mike Belgrave, Compere Lewis Bryan 08 February - Kai Humphries, Kane Brown, Darren Harriott, Robert White 15 February - Prince Abdi, Keith Platt, Compere Joe K 22 February - Shelley Cooper, Wes Zaharuk, Compere Jim Grant Time: 8pm Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, London E15 1BN Info: www.stratfordeast.com 26 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Credit Crunch Comedy After the runaway success of the Comedy Takeaway Affinity Arts Entertainment returns with another belly busting stand up comedy show. For one night only we slash the prices and give you seven of the UK’s best comedians under one roof. Comedy on the night will be from Richard Blackwood, Glenda Jaxson, Slim, Kevin J, Jamie Howard, Mr Cee and Quincy. Time: 7pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk
Real Deal Comedy Jam Where Valentine Lovers Laugh the Loudest Get ready to witness not only a comedy show, but also an entertainment event extravaganza. For the Real Deal Comedy Jam has gathered together the edgiest and hottest urban comedians and entertainers around today for four shows that will enable you to see why the Real Deal Comedy Jam is the UK’s number one urban stand-up comedy show. With Drew Fraser, Annette Fagon, Kurt Metzger, Wayne Rollins and Kat. Time: 7pm Sway, 61-65 Great Queen St, London, WC2B 5BZ Info: www.swaybar.co.uk
14 Feb
Comedy Roast UK Set to be a night of mayhem and laughter: 6 comedians, 1 celebrity roasting and celebrating the man of
the moment, Richard Blackwood. With: Slim, Kat, Mr Fraiser, Donna Spence, Miss London, Mr Cee and Harvey (So Solid Crew). With music on the night supplied by DJ Quincy (Choice FM and Celebrity Supa). Time: 7pm O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Shepherd’s Bush Green, London, W12 8TT Info: 0844 477 2000
20 Feb
The Real McCoy Comedy Xplosion Heartbeat Entertainment the producers of the sell out shows The Kings and Queens of Comedy and The Best of The Best Comedy Xplosion proudly present The Real McCoy Comedy Xplosion. Starring Felix Dexter, Leo Muhammad, Robbie Gee, Eddie Nestor and Judith Jacob. Also appearing are special guests Mr Cee and Slim. Time: 8pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk
MARCH PREVIEW 14 Mar
Curtis Walker and Felix Dexter in Mummy I Love You Come see Curtis Walker and Felix Dexter on stage together for the first time in a very special Mother’s Day stand up comedy and sketch show suitable for all the family called “Mummy I Love You”. This will be an evening of guaranteed laughter and humour brought to you by two comedy maestro’s Curtis Walker and Felix Dexter, Mummies Boy’s. This Mother’s Day comedy show is suitable for all the family. Time: 8pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk
COMEDY
TRAVIS JAY: Born to do it.
The next big thing on the comedy scene
I
t can take time to build a reputation in the world of live comedy but Travis Jay, 22, is having no problems, and is taking the comedy circuit by
storm with his daring style and outlandish humour. Having already performed at various shows across London - including the sold out LOL show and Kojo’s now legendary Comedy Funhouse - he is slowly being recognised as a promising new-comer. After a successful debut year, the young comedian has just made a move into radio with his own show. Lime caught up with the rising star.
How did you get into comedy?
I had no real plans to get into comedy until I started going to Kojo’s comedy funhouse, when they were filming for MTV Base in the West End. In particular the ‘death spot’ where a young comic comes to the stage and if the crowd don’t like you they just boo you off the stage. I couldn’t shake the feeling that, that was something I could do. That feeling rapidly grew over some months, and I remember seeing a comic die in the death spot and feeling even more motivated to do it. That confirmed it was something I had to try.
When did you realise you could make people laugh?
I reckon it’s just been
apart of my nature, as far as I can remember I’ve always been someone that loved to joke around. I perfected a way of laughing in lessons so teachers couldn’t hear me and my friends joking around. You open your mouth just enough, so air can pass in and out. That way you don’t make that compressed laughter sound that comes from the back of your throat. Trust me I could laugh in a funeral and nobody would know haha. Not that I would of course.
Who are your comedy icons?
Dave Chappelle is definitely the comic I look up to the most, his style and creativity is just so amazing. I like the fact he isn’t afraid to let rip on any subject. He’s very unique, I used to sit around for hours and just watch his stand up. I think I know most of his stuff word for word.
Your mum is the wonderfully talented Angie Le Mar – did having a parent in the industry influence your career path? You know, it really didn’t affect my decision at all. Although I have grown up around the comedy circuit, I never felt like it was something I wanted to do. It just felt like me going to my mum’s work place. My initial dream career was professional basketball, but after seeing comedy live away from the reason that my mum was performing allowed me to see comedy in a new light.
What does she think of your shows? Has she given you any tips?
She always tells me that she can’t believe how fast I’ve grasped everything in this short space of time. She is very supporting but she isn’t as involved as most people would probably think. She gives me advice here and there, but she makes a careful effort not to get too deeply involved and put pressure on me. She wants me to experience things and learn from the game, because these experiences shape you as a comic as well as a person.
Tell me about your new show on Bang FM?
My new radio show is ‘Banging Comedy with Travis Jay’ on Bang FM. My show consists of Interviews; I’ve had Kojo, Eddie Kadi, and Richard Blackwood on the show so far. There are crazy sketches, discussions and of course some big tunes. • Catch Travis Jay on Bang Radio FM ‘Banging Comedy with Travis Jay’ every Friday, 9pm. ‘s in the mood for
What is the most romantic thing you have ever done for a girl on St. Valentine’s Day?
Hmmm, I’m not sure. I’m a romantic dude, but I find the little things have the biggest hit. I once wrote this girl a poem over a meal and she cried; that ranks up there for me.
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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THEATRE 09 Feb – 13 Mar
In association with
04/11/18 Feb Barack to the Future
The 14TH Tale
Afridiziak Theatre News: www.afridiziak.com. Written and performed by Inua Ellams, The 14th Tale is a free-flowing narrative that tells the hilarious exploits of a natural born mischief growing from the clay streets of Nigeria to rooftops in Dublin, and finally to London. Inua Ellams vividly recreates the characters that punctuate his upbringing in deft and beautiful poetry, while challenging the audience’s expectations of what it is to be a young, black male in London today. Inua Ellams was born in Nigeria in 1984 and moved to the UK as a teenager. His work merges visual art, spoken word and theatre. He has performed in a wide variety of venues including the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Tate Modern, The Albany, The Drum, Theatre Royal Stratford, Glastonbury and Latitude. He is working on a second collection of poems, following the publication of his first, Thirteen Fairy Negro Tales. Time: 8pm Cottesloe Theatre, National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 Info: www.nationaltheatre.org.uk
28 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Until 06 Feb
I Am Yusuf and This Is My Brother
With peace negotiations in the Middle East deadlocked, this powerful story arrives at the Young Vic direct from touring Palestinian towns, villages and refugee camps in Israel and the West Bank. January 1948. The British Mandate is ending. The United Nations vote on who will control what part of Palestine. Ali has a burning passion for Nada but he is in despair. Her father won’t let them marry because his brother Yusuf is ‘odd’ with his own eccentric, childlike point of view. Rufus, a soldier on the occupying British forces, longs for the cold fogs of Sheffield. War begins. The villagers mourn the loss of the land they’ve worked for generations as unimaginable change takes place around them. A poetic exploration of loyalty and love from the frontline. Time: 7.30pm The Young Vic Company, 66 The Cut London SE1 8LZ Info: www.youngvic.org ubject header by February 15, 2010.
Inder Manocha will be developing his new show here in time to run it in before Edinburgh. Inder told me “the show I’m developing is about whether there’s been multicultural progress in my lifetime. It’s called Barack to the Future. Why not come and see the creative process in action. Every evening will be different. Time: 7.45pm Watermans 40 High Street Brentford TW8 0DS Info: www.watermans. org.uk
05-27 Feb
11 and 12: Théâtre des Bouffes du Nord Directed by Peter Brook, this new play, which comes to the Barbican as part of an international tour, explores an extraordinary conflict in West Africa under French occupation. It shows how a dispute over whether a certain prayer should be recited 11 or 12 times leads inexorably to hatred and massacres. The question of violence and the true place of tolerance make this epic story more than ever relevant today. Adapted from the works of Amadou Hampaté Bâ by MarieHélène Estienne and Peter Brook. Time: 2.30 and 7.45pm Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS Info: www.barbican.org. uk/theatre
THEATRE 11 Feb-13 Mar Ashley Walters in Off the Endz
“My future is here. My aim is clear and simple. I want out. I wanna be rich. I’m not gonna pretend it’s anything more than that and I want it now.” David, Kojo and Sharon grew up on a London estate. Now in their mid 20s, they’re eyeing another kind of life. But how do you choose the right path when temptation lies around every corner? If your emotional or financial debt is sky high, how do you buy your way out? Bola Agbaje’s smart, savvy second play for the Royal Court asks whether being out of the system might be just as good as being in it. Time: 7.30pm Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, London SW1 Info: www. royalcourttheatre.com
13 Feb
Love Sax and all that Jazz This is a theatrical production incorporating music, drama comedy and spoken word. The production explores various aspects of the love, relationships and an attempt to answer the why, when and how’s of relationships. Written by MOBO-nominated spoken word, rap and gospel artiste Alan Charles, the production chronicles the experiences of four female
friends as they come to terms with their individual circumstance. Through their stories the production addresses such topics as singleness, infidelity, divorce, abuse, fornication and all that jazz. Alan has teamed back up with the majority of the cast from his 1998 hit gospel musical “I am getting there”. Together with a live band the production promises to be thought provoking, humorous and one that will inspire, uplift and edutain the whole family. Time: 7.30pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk
17 Feb-20 Mar Disconnect
Disconnect, is a new play by Indian playwright Anupama Chandrasekhar. Her second play for the Royal Court focuses on a group of bright young graduates working in a Chennai call centre. Thousands of miles away, in a window-less office, ambitious young achievers in India are renamed and rebranded, and, with a new accent and invented back story, they work through the night to claw back the cash spent by Americans crippled by debt. Time: 7.45pm Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, London SW1 Info: www. royalcourttheatre.com
16-20 Feb
Rigged: a new play by Ashmeed Sohoye
“I don’t wanna be the hardest man in the smallest town. I want something more.” Nathan’s got issues. A troubled young man struggling to control his anger, battling with his addiction to fruit machines and in receipt of an ASBO for criminal damage. With each average day dealing him demoralizing blows and demands, Nathan is now forced to make crucial choices and changes, but might just be too angry to face them. ‘Rigged’ is an alarming new play by Ashmeed Sohoye (Theatre Royal Stratford East and Soho Writers’ Centre) who worked closely with and wrote alongside Year 11 students in order to deliver a truer and more vivid representation of the younger generation. The piece tackles such raw and provocative themes as violence, addiction, and familial rivalry, making it a compelling drama that has already captivated both teens and adults alike. Time: 7.45 Oval House Theatre, 52-54 Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW Info: www.ovalhouse.com
Until 20 Feb Macbeth
A new professional production of one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays comes to the Broadway Studio Theatre this February. The intimate studio theatre, which seats
just 80, is the ideal venue for you to experience this powerful and commanding new production. Drunk on victory and driven on by ambition, a soldier kills his King and sets in motion his own destruction. Shakespeare’s Macbeth exposes the darkest depths of human aspiration in his most chilling tragedy. – starring Lime’s editor’s cousin, Joseph Rowe. Time: 7.30pm Catford Broadway, London SE6 4RU Info: www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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THEATRE
WORDS: Sophia A Jackson
I
nua Ellams was born in Nigeria in 1984 and moved to the UK as a teenager. His work merges visual art, spoken word and theatre. He has performed in a wide variety of venues including the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Tate Modern, The Albany, The Drum, Theatre Royal Stratford, Glastonbury and Latitude. He is working on a second collection of poems, following the publication of his first, Thirteen Fairy Negro Tales, which was supported by Arts Council England. Lime’s editor spent almost an hour in hysterics as he let her into his creative world.
Your name is unusual – tell me what it means. My dad’s the only person that I know who has the same name. It means ‘shade’. I Googled it – and it’s also a character in Eskimo mythology, it means 30 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
The theatre interview with
Inua Ellams, The 14th Tale a force of life; spirit of the people.
What is The 14th Tale?
A coming of age story about the troubles and trials of things I went through growing up, the men on my father’s side were troublesome, also. My great, great grandfather brought Islam to our part of Nigeria. It is a peaceful faith. My great grandfather was troublesome, my grandfather had seven wives. My father was quite a hot head – and remains so – I descended from that legacy. I have been based in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, west Africa, London, Dublin and then London again. I was born a Muslim and now a Christian because
my father did the pilgrimage to Mecca and he saw the fanaticism there where people were being trampled on and it questioned his faith. I appreciate and know how peaceful the religion is, humans are fanatics and we take things too far and that’s why we have terrorism. My father disliked this.
How are you a troublemaker?
Always wanting to stick out – and be myself regardless of who liked that. First day at school in Dublin at 15 I was only the black boy. With that comes all sorts of ideas and presumptions, I felt like an ambassador for an entire race of people. It was sink or swim. The Irish are considered the
Nigerians of Europe and there’s a belief of being up for it. After the first six months when it became obvious that I wants’ going to fit into a box, people got me. I started off at the bottom of the social ladder but organised the first arts festival. It was a characterdefining three years of my life.
Tell me about the first time you performed on stage and when was that. It was at primary school and I remember dressing up as George Michael and miming to ‘You gotta Have Faith’. I cello taped the shades to my head and my denim jacket was too small. I also did small plays
THEATRE in church in Nigeria. I have a twin sister and we were the cutest thing when we were little. We were highered out as little bride and little groom when we were little. I remember when one of my closest friends told me about when her parents split up and I had to internalise and externalise the story. I told it to the class room and tried to make it my story. Afterwards, she ran across the classroom to me
beard. I got a phenomenal response, and think my parents thought ‘he’s doing something’ and eased off and began to trust me.
Who do you think are the greatest poet of all time? There are people I read when I’m going though different things. Shakespeare was a dude, Sol Williams, because he did poetry and hip hop with such style and class.
F
irst day at school in Dublin at 15 I was the only black boy. I felt like an ambassador for an entire race of people
and was crying. I was 14. I haven’t trained as an actor before. I’m described as a performance poet but when I read a poem, I read with emotion so for me it’s just staying true to the poem. That’s my intention and drive where as the 14th Tale – is specifically for theatre. The first time I did my own literature and performed was was in 2003 at The Aroma Café, did some Googling, and after two months of going, I plucked up the courage to perform. The playwright, Nii Parkes, my mentor, and good friend – saw something in me. He gave me my first professional poetry slot, and I started getting paid, only two months after my first performance.
What do your friends and family think about you airing your dirty laundry in public like this?
I began doing it and it was believed that it was a trend that would be pass, my book came out, it did well, my parents came to see me read, and 80 per cent of the audience were middle class white men, with
Roger Robinson is startling and gorgeous. One of my favourites is Nii Parkes’ Destination DC from Ghana. ‘s in the mood for
- tell me about your best or worst Valentine’s Day experience and one of your favourite romantic poems. My last relationship started on Valentine’s day and ended on Valentine’s Day. I’m a romantic so John Keats’, ‘Ode to Knightingale’ is over flowing with emotion but is over quoted. • The 14th Tale is at the
Cottesloe Theatre from 9 February until 13 March – 10 performances. Published courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News: www.afridiziak. com
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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THEATRE S TICKET N I W N ETITIO COMP IS PROUD TO BE A MEDIA PARTNER FOR 1867
18 – 20 Feb 1867
A new play inspired by the legendary true life story of Madam C J Walker, America’s first self-made black millionairess. 1867 is a celebration of her life told through the character of Delilah MacAndrew, a courageous yet at times stubborn woman, who, at times, you both admire and dislike. Born after the end of the American Civil War Delilah was the first member of her family of former slaves to be born free. By the age of 7 Delilah found herself a penniless and illiterate orphan. She starts her working life as a laundry maid and at the age of 14 marries a violent drunkard. Following a divorce she then marries a decent man only to have her dreams of happiness shattered when he is cruelly murdered by the Ku Klux Klan; leaving her a widow at the age of 20 with a baby daughter in her arms. 1867 tells the moving story of how she triumphs over adversity, battles against racial prejudice, breaks the gender boundaries of the late 19th century and sets up her own phenomenally successful hair products and skin cream business especially designed for AfricanAmerican women. By the time of her death in 1919 she had built the largest black owned manufacturing company in the world with over 15,000 employees. Tough, shrewd and tenacious, Delilah never forgets her long hard journey to wealth and she became a great philanthropist whose influence will reach to The White House itself. Time: 7.30pm RichMix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road London E1 6LA Info: www.richmix.org.uk
Competition: win a pair of tickets to see 1867 on February 18, 2010 at Rich Mix. To enter, email competition@comelime.com with ‘1867’ in the subject header by February 15, 2010.
32 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Slaves When you enter a cell on the C.S.U. you don’t always know what you’ll find. HMP Wandsworth, London, January 2010. 1665 prisoners. Rising star prison officer Chris Jackson knows nothing is simply black or white. His superiors don’t trust him, the prisoners suspect him and his girlfriend is being stalked. But after a sudden promotion, he needs to be even more careful. Confronted by Paul ‘Jenks’ Jenkins, an inmate whose fingers reach far beyond the prison walls, the two men begin a fight for survival on opposite sides of an indifferent system which makes a slave of everyone. Rex Obano’s play is an unflinching portrait of prison life on both sides of the bars. Time: Tues-Sat 7.45pm (Sat 13 Feb 6.30pm) Sundays 5pm Theatre503 at The Latchmere, 503 Battersea Park Road London SW11 3BW Info: 020 7978 7040
24 Feb-13 Mar Every Year, Every Day, I Am Walking
African village, they make their way to the Promised Land: South Africa and its metropolitan hub, Cape Town. Time: 7.45 Oval House Theatre, 52-54 Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW Info: www.ovalhouse.com Until 28 March Nation A parallel world, 1860. Two teenagers thrown together by a tsunami that has destroyed Mau’s village and left Daphne shipwrecked on his South Pacific island, thousands of miles from home. One wears next to nothing, the other a long white dress; neither speaks the other’s language; somehow they must learn to survive. As starving refugees gather, Daphne delivers a baby, milks a pig, brews beer and does battle with a mutineer. Mau fights cannibal Raiders, discovers the world is round and questions the reality of his tribe’s fiercely patriarchal gods. Together they come of age, overseen by a foulmouthed parrot, as they discard old doctrine to forge a new Nation. National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 9PX Info: www. nationaltheatre.org.uk
Until 10 April
Aggie and Ernestine are best friends. Playing together in their rural idyll, life couldn’t be happier. That is, until their lives are shattered by violence. Aggie and her mother are forced to flee their homeland, leaving behind the rest of their family, and Aggie’s dearest friend Ernestine. Travelling from their central-
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof The award-winning smash hit Broadway production of Tennessee Williams’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof which enjoyed a sell out run on Broadway last year with an all black cast has a limited season and will finish in April. Featuring a dynamic all black cast led by James Earl Jones and includes Phylicia Rashad, Adrian Lester, Nina Sosonya and Sanaa Lathan. The play is directed by Debbie Allen of Fame. Novello Theatre, Aldwych London, WC2B 4LD Info: 0844 482 5170
THEATRE Cat on a Hot Tin Roof interview with
Sanaa Lathan
W
e sat down with Tony Award nominee (Raisin in the Sun) Sanaa Lathan (The Best Man, Nip/Tuck) and discussed getting more black audiences interested in theatre and her role as Maggie in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof where she describes herself as being emotionally naked.
Afridiziak Theatre News: So, how excited are you about being in London and starring in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof? Sanaa Lathan: I’m really
excited right now as this is a dream role for me. I haven’t done a play since ‘Raisin in the Sun’ (2004) which has been one of the highlights of my career on the stage.
ATN: Did you have any reservations about Cat on a Hot Tin Roof being an all black cast? SL: I think it was a bold
move but because it’s a classic it stands against time and talks to different races and different economic lines - these characters can be played by anybody. I wasn’t in the Broadway production but people ate it up – they loved it. It was a huge hit.
ATN: On the trailer, I remember you said that not only are you emotionally naked on the stage you’re also semi-naked. How are you preparing for that? SL: (Laughs) I’m not eating.
I’m going to be working out. I’m working my little butt off and just going to do my best in rehearsals.
ATN: What about emotionally – were you able to connect with the character?
WORDS: Sophia A Jackson
“…because it’s a classic it stands against time and talks to different races and different economic lines - these characters can be played by anybody”. SL: Yeah. One great thing
about great writing is you know that you can relate on some level.
ATN: In the US does Broadway pack out with black audiences? Here in the UK, the West End doesn’t regularly pack out with black audiences - even if it’s a black production you rarely see the audience fully reflecting the subject matter or the cast. Do you have that problem in the US? SL: I think there is that problem. The problem is that there are not that many black productions on Broadway and with Cat
on a Hot Tin Roof they had people coming to see the show who had never been to the theatre before. And this production on Broadway broke records with the audiences. I think it’s really about getting black people interested in the subject.
ATN: How did you feel about being nominated for a Tony Award? SL: It was brilliant and totally
unexpected. I was so happy. I wasn’t even thinking about it. It was a thrill.
ATN: What will you be working on after Cat on a Hot Tin Roof?
SL: I have a movie coming
out with Matthew Broderick called Wonderful World. It’s a beautiful little movie and that will be coming out in January. I have a cartoon that I’m the voice over for a show which is a spin-off from Family Guy, called The Cleveland Show which is an all black cartoon. I play Cleveland’s wife. • Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is at the Novello Theatre until April, 2010. • The Cleveland Show starts on E4 this month. Published courtesy of Afridiziak Theatre News: www.afridiziak.com
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SCREEN Screen in association
FEBRUARY FILMS Introducing veteran film critic, Cassam Looch’s movie round up – February
A
stroboy flies onto the big screen on Feb 5th and is a surprisingly enjoyable Manga meets Hollywood animation which is one of many out in time for half-term. Also coming out are The Princess and the Frog, Battle for Terra and Ponyo so there really is something for every taste this month. There are also a number of Oscar contenders out around about this time. With the likes of Up in the Air, Precious and The Road still in cinemas I can also recommend Invictus and Crazy Heart… the latter featuring a possible award winner in Jeff Bridges as a washed country singer trying to rebuild his life in unlikely circumstances. Colin Firth is also a contender in A Single Man which might be in with a shout as it is just the sort of film the Academy loves to reward. Of course Valentine’s Day will be at the front of your
34 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
minds (whether you want it to be or not) so you could score a few brownie points with the other half by taking them along to the appropriately titled Valentine’s Day starring Jamie Foxx, Jessica Alba, Queen Latifah Taylor Lautner and Julia Roberts. Actually there are even more stars packed into this film but I’d probably be here until Easter trying to list them so just check out the film. Also out is another rom-com, Leap Year stars the always reliable Amy Adams and ubiquitous Matthew Goode. However if you are keen to avoid all those annoying couples and feel good films try out The Wolfman another attempt to bring werewolves to the big screen. Also worth checking out are Noel Clarke in horror thriller Heartless, Michael Cera in comedy Youth in Revolt, Helen Mirren in The Last Station and Robert De Niro in Everybody’s fine. Also keep an eye out for micro-budget UK basket flick Freestyle directed by Kolton Lee.
ETS N TICK I W N ETITIO COMP
Lime has teamed up with Paramount to offer you the chance to win a copy of Transformers 2 Revenge Of The Fallen To enter,just answer this question.Who is the leader of the Autobots a.Daffy Duck b. Buzz Lightyear C. Optimus Prime email competition@comelime. com with ‘Transformers’ in the subject header by February, 20th 2010. We have five copies to give away.
Good Luck!
SCREEN STILL SHOWING AT SELECTED CINEMAS
3 Idiots 3 Idiots, has gone on to set a whole new precedent for Bollywood cinema internationally and broken all
Bermondsey Square, London Bridge SE1 3UN Info: www.adinkrafilms. com
25-28 Feb
Bombay Mix Spring Festival 1. Best of Bombay Mix Short Films 2. New Short Films 3. Satyajit Ray Retrospective 4. Independent Feature Films Cine Lumiere, Institute Francais, London SW7 Info: www.bombaymix. org
26 Feb previous records following its continued, staggering Box Office response from audiences globally. ‘3 Idiots’ has grossed more than £1,115m ($1.8m) at the UK Box Office and was the number one film on Christmas Day out grossing ‘Avatar’. The film is UK’s highest grossing Bollywood film of last year and now the highest grossing Indian film ever to release in the US, beating the takings of ‘Om Shanti Om’ which released in 2007. Precious Claireece Precious Jones endures unimaginable hardships in her young life. Abused by her mother, raped by her father, she grows up poor, angry, illiterate, fat, unloved and generally unnoticed. So what better way to learn about her than through her own, halting dialect. Precious is unrelenting and insightful film which thankfully pulls no punches and never waters down the story to make it more palatable for the viewer. Newcomer Gabourey ‘Gabby’ Sidibe takes on the title role with Mo’Nique playing her mother and both deserve the credit they are getting. • Congratulations to Mo’Nique who won the Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture.
20 Feb
A Night with Adinkra Films: A Raisin in the Sun with Q&A
After moving to Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s, a black family struggles to
deal with poverty, racism, and inner conflict as they strive for a better life. Adapted for the screen from Lorraine Hansberry’s play, this is a moving portrait of dreams deferred. Starring Sean ‘P Diddy’ Combs, Sanaa Lathan, Phylicia Rashad and David Oyelowo. Time: 6:45pm & 8:30pm; followed by Q&A with industry representatives. Shortwave Cinema, 10
100 PRINTS from ‘ideas to ipods’ - Script’ Script – looking at how you transform the idea in your head to words that breathe and have a life of their own and hence come alive. This seminar will discuss the considerations necessary to get your idea through commissioning, to the information required by funder to access funds for features. Panelists include Kolton Lee, Patricia Elcock and Lola Dauda Time: 1-5pm The Screening Rooms, MPC, 127 Wardour Street, Soho, London W1F 0NL Info: www.100prints. co.uk
Out 26 Feb Freestyle
Ondene Marchant is beautiful, talented, and destined to study law at
Oxford if she gets good A-levels. Nothing less will satisfy her domineering, mother, Hyacinth. When a, basketball court is set up near her private school, Ondene is charmed by a charismatic, freestyle basketball player, Leon, and they decide to enter a competition. From a deprived background, Leon dreams of going to university, and needs to win to pay his way. Ondene deceives Hyacinth to be with Leon, and romance blossoms. But just before the freestyle basketball and A-level finals, Hyacinth finds out, and splits them up. Angered by Hyacinth’s interference, Ondene decides to take charge of her life but she has to make tough decisions about her family, education, and the man she loves. Starring Alfie Allen, Danny John Jules and Colin Salmon Exclusive soundtrack by the notorious Bashy Directed by up and coming director Kolton Lee Info: www.bebo.com/ freestylemovie
MARCH PREVIEW 12-14 Mar
Sixth Annual Images of Black Women Film Festival Images of Black Women Film Festival unveils our exciting programme for 2010! Back at the Tricycle Theatre for our 6th year, we look forward to welcoming you to our evenings, filled with fantastic films, celebrity Q&As panels, workshops, and great company. Why not buy a festival pass, have a great weekend with friends, family, that special person, or come on your own for that one special film you want to see. This year it will be held at the Tricycle, north London. Info: www. imagesofblackwomen. com LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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SCREEN
’s Hot Films of 2010
Forget Jonathan Ross, Here’s Our 2010 Film Tips
WORDS: Michelle Adabra
The Karate Kid
Following in his father’s rather large footsteps, Jayden Smith kicks arse in this updated version of the classic film. Also stars Jackie Chan as a Mr Muagee-type character.
Tron Legacy (aka Tron 2)
Set in the future (but wasn’t the first Tron set in the future?) Ok, set in the future’s future, the story picks up with the son (Sam Flynn) of the now older Jeff Bridges’ character (Kevin Flynn) who vows to find his father, who is now living in ‘the game’. Get that? I know I didn’t. Anyway the first Tron was groundbreaking, so this is a must see for all die-hard 80s Sci-fi fans. Count me in!
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
Adapted from the game, Jake Gyllenhall stars as the swash buckling prince himself in what sounds like a rather convoluted plotline. Nevermind, the visuals look great and Jake knows how to turn in a good performance. Also stars leading lady of the moment, 36 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
Gemma Atherton. Look out for our resident film critic, Cassam Looch, who is an extra in this hotly anticipated flick. Out in May.
Ironman 2
The sequel to Ironman looks very promising indeed. Ironman is back battling baddies and this time alongside able sidekick Warmachine. Minus Terrance Howard (tear- drop) but nevertheless a stellar cast, Robert Downey stars again, this time alongside Don Cheadle and Scarlett Johnasson.
The Wolfman
Benicio Del Toro stars in what could be one of the scariest films of the year. Interestingly this film is set for a February release, ideal date movie!
Alice in Wonderland
Alice is back for another weird and wonderful adventure but this time she’s returning to Wonderland. Directed by the king of the subverted Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp – could be another cult classic.
‘Rampage’ Jackson as B.A Baracus – the jury is still out on this one. Not all remakes work but if done well, it could be smash. Fingers crossed.
Clash of the Titans
Directed by Louis Leterrier. With Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Gemma Arterton (again). The mortal son of the god Zeus embarks on a perilous journey to stop the underworld from taking over earth. Ok so far so good, all we need now is loads of action, great CGI and buckets of male testosterone and we have a perfect film for the lads.
Takers
A group of bank robbers find their $20 million plan interrupted by a hard-boiled detective hmm sounds a tad cliché but I’m loving the cast. Starring: Idris Elba, Zoe Saldana, Paul Walker, Matt Dillon, Chris Brown, T.I plus many more – sounds fun.
The A-Team
Finally the film adaptation of the cult TV show has arrived and will hit our screens in July. Starring Liam Neeson as Hannibal and Quinton
In the pipeline… Thor
Directed by the uber talented actor/director Kenneth Branagh – the eagerly awaited adaptation of Marvel’s Thor has been a long time coming but it would appear that the ball is rolling now. Starring Anthony Hopkins, Chris Hemsworth (formerly of the Bay, Summer Bay) a very busy Idris Elba, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury (yes, very exciting) and Natalie Portman (possible love interest methinks) it sounds as if this may be a book in advance affair. I’m rubbing my hands together with glee, can’t wait. Scheduled for release: 2011 • Are there any films you think we should have mentioned? What is your film tip for the year? Let us know on Twitter! www.twitter. com/limewithus
SCREEN
The Screen Interview with
Gabourey ‘Gabby’ Sidibe, Precious
H
aving wowed the critics and now on general release in cinemas, Precious is a startling and uncompromising look at the harsh realities some would rather keep hidden away. Central to the film’s success is the debut performance of Gabourey ‘Gabby’ Sidibe, who is set for a big career in Hollywood following her breakout turn in the title role. Cassam Looch caught up with the star to find out more. Tell us about how you won the coveted role of Precious…
Gabby: I went to an open casting call that a friend of mine told me about. I got a message for a call back within an hour for the next day and then I was told that Lee Daniels (the director) wanted to meet with me and then I was offered the role from there.
And having spoken to Lee I understand that they had been looking for a while to find the right person to play Precious, did that add more pressure on you and what do you think clinched it? I didn’t know that until after I had been cast, but I think
what threw me was to find out about how many girls they had auditioned. It was something like 400 or so, I think they saw the complete opposite of the character which you can tell when you meet me. So I think it should be someone who was clearly acting the part rather than someone who might have been exploited in any way.
The book itself is heavy going, was it something you knew about?
Oh well I was a big fan of the book. I must have read it four years prior and read it several times more during the shoot. I knew the character; she was like people in my life so it wasn’t a far stretch in those terms.
Both the book and film are controversial, are you worried about a backlash?
Woodsman’ or ‘Monster’s Ball’ (produced by Daniels) until after I was cast. I was intimidated by almost everything on the film though, everyone had a lot of experience and I only got over that when I realized I had to. I didn’t want to be afraid or act like a newbie so I had to get over it fast.
Given how powerful the subject matter is, do you think there is enough hope and optimism in the film to balance it?
Of course with all the success now that has changed dramatically.
I have had more acceptance than a backlash. The tiny wave against it is from people who haven’t seen the film, and their opinion doesn’t count which is where we are with that.
It’s a tough subject; there is no getting around that. It’s also honest because these things sadly happen. When things are tough for Precious they are tough for the audience but it’s not about breaking people.
Were you a fan of the directors’ earlier work?
Definitely, I really like ‘Shadow Boxer’ which isn’t one of his most acclaimed projects but really connected with me. I hadn’t actually seen ‘The
Yeah exactly. I hope to be able to continue acting for a while. It’s noble in a way to take a script from the paper and bring life to it. It’s very moving and artistic. I’ve been very fortunate that the roles I’ve been offered since aren’t just like Precious; I would like to do a comedy in the future so Judd Apatow is someone I’d really like to work with. Also Todd Solondz whose films I think are amazing, I like how gritty and raw they are. • Precious is out now at selected cinemas. LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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SCREEN
Film industry insider Micallar Walker shares her top 10 romantic films in her ever-growing DVD collection
R
omance. Do images of candle lit dinners, trips to Paris and a dozen red roses arriving at your office spring to mind? Come on ladies, we’ve all day dreamed of the moment our receptionist walks the bouquet across the office heading straight for our desk. I know I’ve practised my ‘just received an Oscar face’ a thousand times in front of the bathroom mirror.
However, if we zap back to reality with Valentine’s Day fast approaching, romance is so easily attainable - in the form of a good old-fashioned trip to the movies. For me nothing beats popcorn and holding hands in a dark theatre or snuggling up on the sofa at home to watch a DVD. So if you can pin your loved one down long enough to watch any of the following titles, I guarantee they’ll melt your heart and sprinkle a little love magic into both your lives.
LARS AND THE REAL GIRL (2008)
“One of 2009’s 10 Best films” - LA Times. This quirky, funny and affecting love story resonates with me. We meet Lars, a sensitive man dealing with bereavement, who falls in love with a life-sized blow up doll called Bianca that he’s bought over the Internet. Simultaneously he develops feelings for his attractive co-worker Margo. A bizarre love triangle ensues. A must-see film, if only to witness how Lars’ family and the local town folk lovingly accept and include Bianca in their lives whilst ever-so gently helping Lars in his search for the meaning of true love.
BOOMERANG (1992)
Eddie Murphy takes centre stage as Marcus a womanising advertising executive. He meets his match in man-eater Jacqueline played by a smouldering Robin Givens. This glossy take on reversing roles is peppered with brilliantly exaggerated cameo appearances from the late, great Eartha Kitt and the formidable Grace Jones. Watch as Marcus is unceremoniously brought to his knees by ruthless Jacqueline. Never fear though, as a fresh faced Halle Berry is on hand to help him realise true love. I love that there are no one dimensional female characters planted solely to jolt the story line along. This is a really uplifting romantic comedy with women in integral roles.
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‘s in the mood for
IN SEARCH OF A MIDNIGHT KISS (2007)
It’s December 31 and our protagonist is effortlessly cool indie-boy Wilson. We love him from the start even though the film opens with him in a very compromising situation. Wilson has had the worst year of his life, so to escape the inevitable seasonal loneliness he places an ad for a NYE date: ‘a misanthrope who’s seeking the same’. Enter sexy, feisty Vivian – she’s determined to be with the right man at the stroke of midnight. We follow their date – a bittersweet slice of mumblecore served up in monochrome with a beautifully photographed LA around every corner. Will they? Won’t they? This debut independent flick couldn’t get any closer to a real life date if it tried.
GOOD DICK (2008)
Don’t be put off by the crass, teen title (a mistake, in my opinion). This film is nothing of the sort. Credited simply as Man and Woman, Jason Ritter and Marianna Palka are perfectly cast in this unconventional tale of love turned upside down. She has a penchant for – shall we say, ‘erotic’ movies and wants to be free of a haunting past and he’s the hopelessly romantic video store clerk who falls for her like a giant meteorite to Earth. Unrequited love and mass rejection follow but stick with it for countless moments of pure emotion as we watch the ice queen melt.
SCREEN LOST IN TRANSLATION (2003)
Airport lounges and hotel bars - two places where, if I’m on my own I always feel incredibly pensive and find myself immersed in intense people watching. Both insomniacs, Bob (Bill Murray) and Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) meet in their hotel bar in Japan and strike up a life-changing friendship. Bob is a movie star and Charlotte is a newlywed accompanying her husband on a business trip. This exquisite dramedy from Sofia Coppola deals with culture shock, loneliness and love. Together, despite their age difference (think father and daughter) they explore the delights of Japanese culture and rediscover their zest for life. The big question is what does Bob whisper to Charlotte in the final scene?
VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA (2008)
This film oozes sex appeal. Shot during Spanish summer time in the picturesque cities of Aviles, Barcelona and Oviedo, its pace is scorching and it sizzles relentlessly. Javier Bardem’s lead performance as the artist at the centre of three beautiful and very different women, is a masterclass in charm and chivalry (Men take note). Prepare yourself for copious amounts of red wine, a cheeky Spanish soundtrack and Woody Allen’s patronising yet strangely enjoyable narration throughout. Who will win the lothario’s heart? The crazy ex-wife played by Penelope Cruz, the practical Bridge-playing American (Cristina) or her spontaneous best friend (Vicky)?
HE MONEY PIT (1986)
The cover of this DVD says “For everyone who’s ever been deeply in love or deeply in debt.” Tom Hanks and Shelley Long unsuspectingly buy a house that’s literally falling apart at the seams. Cue a flying Thanksgiving roast turkey, a collapsing staircase and an onslaught of con artists galore. This is one of my favourite films of all time. I’ll never tire of their hilarious attempts to make the house safe and presentable whilst desperately trying to keep their relationship in tact. Guaranteed to make you laugh out loud with the faultless comic timing and the sheer absurdity of it all. This is pure 80’s carat gold.
JERRY MAGUIRE (1996)
A classic tale of Jerry meets girl, Jerry gets girl, Jerry screws up, Jerry wakes up and Jerry wins girl back forever. I love this film. Although Hollywood A-listers Cruise and Zellweger star as the aforementioned ‘Jerry and girl’, it’s the performances of Cuba Gooding Jnr (he won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for this role) and the fabulous Regina King that catapult this film into the romantic annals of history. They are just SO in love! And it was one of the first times, on film, I witnessed a black couple being romantic and loving towards each other minus any booty shaking or stereotypical anatomical jokes.
HOW STELLA GOT HER GROOVE BACK (1999)
This is a guilty pleasure of mine. It’s an adaptation of Terry McMillan’s best selling novel of the same name starring the very gorgeous Taye Diggs as the love interest Winston and Angela Bassett as our heroine Stella – a successful single mother. Whoopi Goldberg supports in her own inimitable way as the best friend Delilah. Stella, cash rich but love poor, embarks on a holiday to Jamaica with Delilah where she meets local Winston who is half her age. The rest as they say is history. There are sunsets, beach bodies and the usual female insecurities. And at one point you’ll need a whole box of tissues. Go on, rent it out. You know you want to.
PUNCH DRUNK LOVE (2002)
The plot of this unusual story written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson is complex and the way in which it’s told is completely unconventional but stick with it and you won’t be disappointed. Adam Sandler plays it straight with a twist as a painfully shy, socially impaired small business owner who has seven controlling sisters and one electric blue suit. Love seeks him out in the shape of Emily Watson’s Lena and they embark on a weird and wonderful courtship. The beautiful, perfectly timed score by Jon Brion is perhaps my favourite character in this moving, comedic piece.
LIME MAGAZINE 2010
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CLUB S TICKET N I W N ETITIO COMP
13 Feb
Carwash: Shoot Me with Your Love
With a glamorous team of Cupids delivering your hand written love messages across the dance floor to your new heart’s desire, Carwash pulls out all the stops for a night of flirtatious fun. Meet your dream partner under the mirror balls and get up close and personal. Or flirt to your heart’s content at the Valentines Kissing Booth, specially erected for the night. With a heart-festooned dance floor, the Pleasure Patrol team of Cupid’s messengers, and the Carwash DJ’s headed up by The Deckster spinning the ultimate funky and disco love soundtracks to get you in the groove, this is one unmissable Valentines party. Carwash is London’s longest running and most fabulous Disco and Funk night. Held at Club Aquarium each and every Saturday, Carwash play the funkiest sounds to a crowd of fiercely retro club kids who just love to boogie oogie oogie all night long...and when your feet need a rest you can always go for a dip in the pool or Jacuzzi. Time: 10pm-3.30am The Aquarium, 256 Old Street, London, EC1V Info: www.carwash.co.uk
Competition: Lime has two pairs of tickets to give away. Just answer this simple question: Where is Carwash held? A) Aqua Libre; B) Aqua Centre or C) Aquarium. Email your answer and contact details to competition@comelime.com with ‘Carwash’ in the subject header by Thursday 11 February, 2010.
06 Feb
The Gorgeous Party Join us for another fun filled evening with gorgeous and mature people partying away to the gorgeous sounds of our resident dj’s at the gorgeous Abacus. Abacus has three dance areas, three massive bars, a restaurant and over 30 VIP areas. Held the first Saturday of the 40 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
month and is for the grown and mature (over 25’s). Music Room One: r&b, hip hop, funky, Naija Beats, Bashment, Soca + more. Music Room Two: Ol Skool Classics, Nu Jack Swing, Ragga, Jungle + more. Dj’s: Residents - Phat Kontrolaz, Mr Deezel and Mr Drew. MCs: Mr Shuges and Makkie MC.
Time: 10pm – 4am Abacus, 24 Cornhill, London EC3V 3ND Info: 07958 552 838 / obi@ mynite.co.uk
07 Feb
Remembering Dilla 2010 with resident DJ Bemi + guests Akasha We once again dedicate an evening to the music of J-Dilla. Still missed four years after his passing, his musical legacy still runs through much of the music we love today. He produced, collaborated and remixed artists such as D’Angelo, Common, A Tribe Called Quest, Erykah Badu, Bilal, The Pharcyde, De La Soul, The Roots, Dwele and of course his own group Slum Village, of which we also remember Baatin. We will have an exploration that will include the hits and the rarities. Last year was mayhem - so come early. Time: 6pm - 11pm Market Place, 11 Market Place London W1W 8AH Info: www.amplifiedonline.co.uk
12 Feb
Beat the Street Downstairs “The Soul of Disco” with Joey Negro, Sean P and Love Fever DJs. Upstairs Valentines Soiree hosted by The Players Association. Time: 9pm-3.30am East Village, 89 Great Eastern Street, London EC2A 3HX Info: www.eastvillageclub. com
15 Feb
Countrynaval Traffic Light Ball with DJ Fred If Valentine’s night didn’t go as planned, why not pull up for a Carnival first – the Countrynaval Traffic Light Ball. The doors are open to couples, singles and everyone in between, for an evening of love, romance
and playful flirting as Cupid takes over. The rules are easy: If you have a boyfriend/ girlfriend, come dressed in red. If you are single and free as a bird, come dressed in green. Or… if you feel you don’t fit in to either of the first two categories, and still don’t know how serious your relationship is, then just be brave and wear a vibrant yellow. Our genuine Bucking Bronco will help create the rodeo atmosphere. Plus, Pé Na Estrada plays live country music and great Carnival tunes. Come early for line dance lessons. Time: 5pm – 2.30am Guanabara, Parker St WC2 Info: www.guanabara. co.uk
24 Feb
Samba Samba Special
To get a real feel for Brazil and its music, Wednesday nights are a must - just as in Brazil, tonight a group of musicians gather in a circle around a table and play traditional Samba songs. The musicianship of the band ‘Capital do Samba’ is truly breathtaking, and the crowd always ends up dancing late into the evening. Brazil Rhythms and colours: two acts tell the country’s history through music and dance. From the discovery of Brazil to its ballroom dances and finishing with a spectacular display of the Brazilian carnival from Carmen Miranda and The Girls from Ipanema. Costumes are the highlights of the show, with fantastic designs and vibrant colours. Come early for a free Gafieira class. Time: 5pm-2.30am Guanabara,
CLUB
The DJ Interview with
Ayah Marar We caught up with Ayah who is touring with Calvin Harris before she jetted off to Australia. How did you become a DJ?
I am not a DJ by trade I’m a singer but I’ve been collecting vinyl for the last ten years. I love my soul and reggae. I had a four year residency at Herbal in 2003 and it all fell into place. My first set there went well and they asked me to do it on a monthly basis. I was like an old school reggae DJ where you just fade in and out, then I got advice from people and got into beat matching. It’s a skill that people learn from practice and you have to have an ear and some rhythm.
You toured with Calvin Harris. How did that come about? I used to work at Uptown Records in Soho and Calvin Harris came in with a demo, I emailed him and told him I loved his music. He moved
What does 2010 have in store for you?
I want to be one of the annoying people who can do everything. I’m learning to produce at the moment. I’m never going to be best at all of them but I want to reach a level where I can be comfortable with everything. I’m writing my own album now and will be back in the studio when I get back. I want to finish the album and get the band on road.
Scenario: you’re playing out and heaven bid, there’s no vibe. What three songs would you play to get the party jumping?
Sean Paul, Infiltrate; any Busta Rhymes tune and maybe the Biggie track, One More Chance.
How critical are you when you go out and listen to other DJ’s?
I love when I go out and it’s a DJ that makes me forget that I’m a DJ that’s someone who gets my attention.
What music do you specialise in?
I play reggae, old soul, bit of house, funk and r&b - music of black origin. I’m from the Middle East and moved to London 11 years ago. My mum was into Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy, 60’s rock, My dad liked Boney M and Simon and Garfunkel. I started listening to jazz and hip hop. I got into drum and base which appealed to me and I started MCing and singing.
6000 people and everyone was mental. London crowds are my favourite as you’re at home. Home is home.
What makes you love your job and what are the perks?
‘I
love when I go out and it’s a DJ that makes me forget that I’m a DJ that’s someone who gets my attention’. into my spare room, but we got despondent with the music industry so he moved back to Scotland. He asked me to sing on his album. We’ve finished a five week tour visiting Scotland, Ireland, Paris, and now three weeks in Australia. It’s going to be nuts and we get to do all the festivals
in the summer. I’m on the Flashback single but he’s also given me a couple of tracks for my album.
Where have been the best places you’ve played at so far?
I played a wicked gig in Poland a few years ago which was on a beach with
Free sh*t and being centre of attention, and getting the satisfaction of seeing how people react to the music I’m playing.
‘s in the mood for
What are your top three love songs that will get you in the mood for some good old fashion loving?
Donnie Hathaway, Barry White, D’Angelo or BabyFace or some old 90’s song Info: www.myspace.com/ ayahmarar LIME MAGAZINE 2010
41
CLUB EVERY THURSDAY
Don’t Miss
20 Feb
*NEW* Unidos: London’s new Latino party
For the first time, London’s main Latin event promoters come together to create a night of unity, massive sounds and great vibes with the buzzing Unidos party event. The main arena will be pumping the sounds of Reggaeton, Latin and Urban beats, mashed up with a mix of House, Baile Funk and Kuduro from DJs Jose Luis, El Moreno, Menez, El Nino and Gato, who are without doubt the best Latin DJ’s in the UK. Introducing The Tropical Room at Unidos, which features DJ’s from five countries, Cuba, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Bolivia Colombia - playing the Best in Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and Mambo de Calle plus much more. Time: 10pm to 6am Area Club, 67 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP Info: www.reggaeton.co.uk
Parker St WC2 Info: www.guanabara. co.uk
28 Feb/28 Mar /25 Apr/30 May *NEW* The Doctor’s Orders and Back II Life present Back II Boogie Last Sunday of every month with residents Jazzie B, Spin Doctor, Johnny Reckless and Ben Waist - a night dedicated to 80’s soul and boogie. Playing the very best 80’s soul and boogie with just a touch of 70’s disco and 90’s hip-hop. It’s been 25 years since Soul II Soul’s Africa Centre Sundays redefined club culture for an entire generation. Despite this length of time Jazzie B is still as active and passionate about throwing great parties as he has ever been. Joined 42 LIME MAGAZINE 2010
by good friend and London’s busiest DJ / Promoter Spin Doctor they have decided that what London really needs is a refreshingly honest look back at the soul of the 1980’s. Time: 2pm-1am East Village, 89 Great Eastern Street, London EC2A 3HX Info: info@ thedoctorsorders.com
EVERY DAY Free live music: Theatre Royal Stratford East Bar Live music, laid-back sessions every night from 6pm. During the weekend music will start from 3pm and on Sunday from 2pm. Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, London E15 1BN Info: www.stratfordeast. com
Kizomba UK Weekly Kizomba Party in the heart of London with Kizomba classes for all levels from 7 to 8pm then free club from 8pm till late. Club will be rocked till late by Kizomba UK resident DJ Marito + special guests, mixing the best of Kizomba and Zouk, Zouk & Kizomba + other Afro-Latin and Caribbean beats. Time: From 7pm 101 Bar, 101 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1DB Info: www.Kizombauk. com Hot Wuk The latest and greatest dancehall reggae, hip hop and Caribbean rave music. DJ’s on rotation: The Heatwave, J Star, Upstate Rockers and Shimmy Shimmy Time: 9pm-1am Big Chill House, 257-259 Pentonville Road, London N1 9NL Info: www.theheatwave. co.uk
EVERY FRIDAY *NEW* Roof Gardens presents Live Music Nights in association with Jack Daniels until end of March A new, weekly pre-club night where some of the hottest new bands on the music scene will perform exclusive sets every Friday evening at the award-winning venue. A great line up will include the likes of jazz soul singer Rebecca Poole and funk/ soul band Alex Le Roux. London’s stylish new music enthusiasts can enjoy a JD-inspired cocktail and sample the culinary winter BBQ delights whilst listening to some of 2010’s leading musical talent. ‘ Time: 7-10pm (normal club night starts from
10pm) The Roof Gardens, 6th Floor, The Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA Info: www.roofgardens. virgin.com Groove Lineage with Paul Aaaron Freestyle eclectic dance music policy inc. soul, (from northern soul to neo soul) nu jazz, acid jazz, jazz dance, funk, disco, breaks, party hip hop, latin, world music, rare grooves, reggae, dancehall, ska, blues, r&b, afrobeat, brokenbeat, dnb, disco, classic and soulful house. Time: 9pm-2am, Free Entry Hobgoblin, 73 White Lion St, Angel, N1 Info: 07821 357713 / keepthefaithful@gmail. com
EVERY SATURDAY Coco Blush Resident DJ’s playing r&b, funky house, ol skool, Desi beats and much more. Lounge bar until 10pm, then party afterwards. DJ’s: Allstar DJs, Mr Mark & Edge Time: 8pm-6am Arch One, 1 Mepham Street, London SE1 8RL Info: http://ceriseentertainment. co.uk/ allstar@ceriseentertainment.co.uk
EVERY SUNDAY The Electric Lounge A fine dish of melodies and beats served on a fine platter of house and disco. Experimental chill out and ambient grooves to start with, then electro and tribal mixes to end the week. Time: 8pm-4am 101 Bar, 101 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1DB Info: www.vpmg.net/101/
For the very best in competitions reviews and places to visit in London Visit www.comelime.com Get Your Tickets here first to the capital’s biggest events Via our partners
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FOUR STEPS TO FITNESS Exercise can help people feel better and enjoy life more, even those who think they’re too old or too out of shape. Staying physically active on a regular, permanent basis can help prevent or delay certain diseases (like some types of cancer, heart disease or diabetes) and disabilities as people grow older. Regular exercise also can improve mood and relieve depression, too. WHAT YOU CAN DO Plan on making physical activity a part of your everyday life. Do things you enjoy. Go for brisk walks. Ride a bike. Dance. And don’t stop doing physical tasks around the house and in the yard. Trim your hedges without a power tool. Climb stairs. Rake leaves. STEP ONE The first step is to get at least 30 minutes of activity that makes you breathe harder, on most or all days of the week. That’s called “endurance activity,” because it builds your stamina. That way you can keep doing the things you need to do and the things you like to do. If you can’t be active for 30 minutes all at once, get at least 10 minutes of endurance activity at a time. If you choose to do 10-minute sessions, make sure that they add up to a total of 30 minutes at the end of the day. Even a moderate level of sustained activity helps.
start an exercise program that makes sure you do the right types of activities.
One doctor describes the right level of effort this way: If you can talk without any trouble at all, your activity is probably too easy. If you can’t talk at all, it’s too hard. Studies show that endurance activities help prevent or delay many diseases that seem to come with age. In some cases, endurance activity can also improve chronic diseases or their symptoms.
Lack of use lets muscles waste away. When you have enough muscle, it can mean the difference between being able to get up from a chair by yourself and having to wait for someone to help you get up. That’s true for younger adults as well as for people age 90 and older. Very small changes in muscle size, changes that you can’t even see, can make a big difference in your being able to live and do things on your own.
STEP TWO Step two is to keep using your muscles. People You can combine activities lose 20% to 40% of their — for example, walking muscle — and, along with uphill and raking leaves it, their strength — as they build both endurance and age. Scientists have found some of your muscles at that a major reason people the same time. Or you can lose muscle is because they stop doing everyday activities that use muscle power, not just RF CLUB BOW WHARO because GROVE AD RK they BOW, VICTORIA PA grow LONDON E3 5SN older.
MAGAZINE 2010 two thousand and nine (4460)LIME Lime magazine
One good reason to start an exercise program is that you will probably work muscles that you may have stopped using without even realizing it. Another is that exercise programs are likely to help you build up — not just maintain — your endurance and strength. Keeping your muscles in shape can help prevent another serious problem in older people: falls that cause broken hips or other disabilities. When the leg and hip muscles that support you are strong, you’re less likely to fall. And using your muscles may make your bones stronger, too. STEP THREE Step three is to do things to help your balance. For example, stand on one foot, then the other, without holding onto anything for support. Stand up from sitting in a chair without using your hands or arms. Every now and then, walk heel-to-toe (the toes of the foot in back should almost touch the heel of the foot in front when you walk this way). STEP FOUR Finally, step four is to stretch. Stretching won’t build your endurance or muscles, but it may help keep you limber.
NOTICEBOARD noticeboard Health & Beauty
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Egyptian Belly Dance Classed The Sunday Shimmy” with professional dancer Khalisha. Classes are run
on four week courses, bookable online. Contact 07949 615240 or
khalisha@khalishabellyda ncer.co.uk. Book online at www.khalishabellydancer. co.uk
Body Control Pilates largest pilates centre is now open.There are a group of matwork classes, two fully-equipped studios and a team of expert teaches. 35 Little Russell Street. Tel 020 7636 8900 www. bodycontrol.co.uk
Personal Development
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Sufi Meditation & Instruction Tel: 020 8556 7713
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