Allure 05062016 by Vanguard Media Limited

June 5, 2016

t n e m n i a t r e t The En Edit linda ejiofor

adesua etomi

OMONI OBOLI

chioma onyenwe

Nigeria’s leading ladies AMAA ‘Best...’

05/06 Contents

e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

FASHION 4

Forever Fashion Favourites Basic Dress Styles

COVER STORY

AMAA Nominees 2016

PEOPLE 15

• Lara Art Presents ‘Down The Rabbit Hole’ • 8 Bars And A Clef Premier @ The Palms

Editor’s Note

Quotes... “Husbands and wives, first be faithful to each other. Second, keep the romance going all of your life by courting each other every day”. - H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

“Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship”.

- Buddha

“Remember that no relationship is a total waste of time. You can always learn something about yourself”.

It’s the middle of the year and the onset of activities that will lead up to the year-wrap. It’s like everyone is waiting for the cross over to race up to encore.To herald the several big events up to December is the AMAA - Africa Movie Academy Awards. Between June 9 and 12, 2016, the Garden City of Port Harcourt will play host to Nigeria’s leading men, women and others as awards are presented to the best and the most brilliant actors. On our cover, we feature Nigeria’s nominees for ‘Best Female Lead Act’, ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ and ‘Best Directional Debut’. They are leading ladies who have exhibited great talent, verve and professionalism. Yemisi Suleiman met up with the stars and asked what their chances are at lifting the respective trophies. See pp. 6 - 11. On our fashion pages, Jemi Ekunkunbor takes on four fashion looks and how to rock them. See pp. 4 - 5. It’ s another entertainment edit. And, you are welcome. Enjoy!

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- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

TEAM JEMI EKUNKUNBOR

lookposh@yahoo.co.uk

PAMELA ECHEMUNOR

pamela.echemunor @gmail.com

YEMISI SULEIMAN

suleimanyemisi@gmail.com

FATIMA GARBA

fatigarba36@yahoo.com

EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

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FA S H I ON

ALLUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

WEEKLY FAB LIST!!! By - Fatima Garba

Looking for the latest trends to transition into? Hopefully our weekly fab list will help you decide the major trends to keep you looking fab all day and all week.

KIMONO TREND The Asian influences were very heavy at the New York fashion week this year and as a continuation from resort,the kimono seemed to inspire everyone.

STRIPES TREND

Elizabeth and James kimono top

Stripes are a tried and true season staple.This season, designers have decided to move away from the classic Breton, horizontal stripes. Vertical stripes are the new print as shown on the ruway at Altuzarra and Tommy Hilfiger.

BERMUDA SHORTS TREND For this season, designers have adapted this trend for women in a baggier version. This is the way we would both keep cool and look cool.

Asos Bermuda shorts

Valentino striped heels

Zoe Saldana in Dolce & Gabbana striped dress

FRAY TREND Fraying details are the best kind of deconstruction and this season,designers like Tory Burch, have embraced their appeal.They instantly make a garment cool,it is all about controlled disaster.

Zoe vertical striped dress River island fray edge shorts

June 5, 2016 /

FA S H I O N

Forever Fashion Favourites

Polka Dots

FASH IO N

Animal Print

The animal print look is one classic style that has come to stay. Everyone has one piece somewhere in the closet: be it a dress, a top, a pair of shoes, a scarf or a bag. It never really goes out of fashion always resurfacing, season after season, freshly revamped and differently interpreted. Like stripes, it is a tricky one to pull and you require a few tips to make it right.

by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

Despite the fact that polka dot has a reputation for being somewhat retro, it is a trend that almost every child got to wear as the round circle fabric, was a great hit with children’s clothes. Polka dots are one of the most versatile patterns to wear. The trick to pulling off polka dots is to keep the dots fairly small and your outlines modern. But if you prefer the large circles, then keep the rest of your look simple. Here are fun ways to wear them.

As a Skirt...

When it comes to a polka dot skirt, there is a lot you can do with it depending on the colours of your dots. If you want to wear the skirt to the office, combine it with a white or even light grey blouse or shirt. You can also wear a cardigan or a blazer atop your skirt. If it is a navy dot, pair with red blouse, yellow or white. yvonne

As a Blouse...

Wearing a free-flowing polka dot blouse over a skirt, is a classic look that is quite suitable for women who are smaller on top. Spotting prints like the polka dot blouse, could help balance out your figure. Opt for a trendy cut in good fabric. Rock your blouse with a skirt or a pair of trousers.

Fashion it is said comes and goes but there are a few trends that remain a recurrent decimal through the seasons. These trends are favourites that remain ever trendy. Here they are:

Tips for wearing Animal print

• Choose only one large part of your outfit that’s wild. For instance, if your top is a leopard/tiger/zebra print, let the tights/skirt/pants be non-animal. If it’s your dress that has the print, then accessorize with plain black or nude. • A touch of the same print on your footwear only works when the black, beige or white shade is dominant. • A leopard print dress can be so simple – accessorize with a gold necklace or bright bad for an effortless chic look.

Stripes Like polka dots, stripes have a way of grabbing attention. They also have the ability to enhance your figure when properly paired with the right pieces. If you are going to wear this trend, take out time to shop for that one item that will work well for you. Will it be vertical or horizontal stripes? A lot of people prefer the vertical stripe for its slimming effect. A pair of vertical stripe trousers or skirt can make you look taller. Horizontal stripes on the other hand, help to widen your shape. This is especially great for women with boyish shape. For best effect, work with your body shape. Follow these tips.

bola balogun

nkiru anumudu

Ankara sophie momodu

osas ighodalo-ajibade

Tips for wearing stripes

As a Trouser...

Not every day does one get to see someone dressed in a pair polka dot trousers. When wearing a pair, let it be a statement piece. If it is a white and black dot trouser, pair with a nice red blouse for good effect.

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•Wear one piece of stripe at a time and pair with a solid. •To get the best out of horizontal stripes, avoid putting horizontal stripes across the larger parts of your body. It will make the area wider and shorter. • For a dramatic effect, contrast with one block colour. tiwa savage

That Ankara has come to stay is no longer in question. The colourful print fabric has become the favourite of designers and discerning fashionistas as well. It can go from day to night and can be won in a variety of ways. A favourite for uniform (aso ebi), pair an Ankara dress with a pair of shoes whose colour is prominent on the fabric. You can also do the nude option. It all depends on what suits you.

stephanie okereke

June 5, 2016 /

FA S H I O N

Forever Fashion Favourites

Polka Dots

FASH IO N

Animal Print

by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

As a Skirt...

As a Blouse...

Fashion it is said comes and goes but there are a few trends that remain a recurrent decimal through the seasons. These trends are favourites that remain ever trendy. Here they are:

Tips for wearing Animal print

bola balogun

nkiru anumudu

Ankara sophie momodu

osas ighodalo-ajibade

Tips for wearing stripes

As a Trouser...

/ June 5, 2016

stephanie okereke

June 5, 2016 /

Basic Dress FA S H I O N

By - Yemisi Suleiman

STYLES

If there is one piece of clothing every lady needs, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the dress. From the off shoulder, midi to maxi dress, there are a whole lot of styles to choose from for every occasion. You can have all the different styles of dresses in your wardrobe, truth is, it is never too much.

Light blue wrap tie shirtdress

MICHEAL KORS SHEAT DRESS

Here is a selection of six basic dresses that you need in your closet.

SHEATH

SHIRTDRESS

We love our shirtdresses crafted from crisp cotton poplin, but no two styles are alike. Look for details, like high-low hemlines and flouncy skirts.

The sheath is the dress you could wear to work. It exudes power and sophistication in one fell swoop. Invest in richer, thicker fabrics, and make sure it is properly tailored to hug your body in all the right ways.

FIT AND FLARE

DONNA KARAN

OFF-THE-SHOULDER Whether it is a mini, a midi, or a maxi, this is the dress of the season. It allows you to subtly show skin without exposing too much.

/ June 5, 2016

Perhaps the most feminine style, the fit-and-flare dress highlights your torso, while grazing over your bottom half. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s super easy to wear, but looks totally put together.

TWO TONE MAXI DRESS

TOKE MAKINWA

MIDI

STRIPS MIDI DRESS

Hitting at about the mid calf, the midi is the dress version of culottes. You show a hint of skin, but not an excessive amount. It is also perfect for the workplace.

MAXI

This style is perfect for long destinations and the beach but still has city appeal when worn with a killer pair of heels.

REPORTAGE

AMAA Nominees 2016 By - Yemisi Suleiman

s Africa sets to honour its movie industry best at the 12th edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) 2016 billed to hold this weekend in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria’s Nollywood actors, Omoni Oboli, Adesua Etomi and Linda Ejiofor and film maker, Chioma Onyenwe, are amongst top contenders for this year’s awards. Nominated for ‘Best Female Lead Act’, ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ and ‘Best Directional Debut’ respectively, these leading Nollywood ladies take us into their world of make believe.

Creative Director: Nelly Mesik | Photography: Aham Ibeleme | Stylist: Rhoda Ebun For Roses And Thorns. Tomiwa For Ayaba Creations | Hair: Tj For Haircraft | Makeup: Evelyn And Joanne For Zaron Cosmetics. Location: Maison Fahrenheit Hotel, V/I. All Outfits For The Single Shots Are From Ayaba Creations.

June 5, 2016 /

REPORTAGE

REPORTAGE How does it feel being nominated in the category of ‘Best Female Lead Act’ in the 2016 Africa Movie Academy Awards, AMAA, alongside other top female acts? It feels great! It always gives me a sense of pride and joy when my work is recognised in any way and this nomination is one of the prizes we work to achieve. I am also honoured to be named alongside such great actors as those nominated in the ‘Best Female Lead Act’ category. I thank God! What was it like interpreting your role in the movie ‘Fifty’? Was it challenging or just easy? Every role is challenging because I am not any of the characters I play. I always have to learn to become the personalities I play so that I can give a more believable performance. For the character of Maria, I tried to understand the circumstances she found herself in and somehow make sense of it while playing the role without really understanding it in reality because, her choices are not my choices. The idea is to give a performance that comes across as easy to the audience such that my face becomes the face of Maria in the movie with all her issues. Is it something you would like to do again? Of course, I wouldn’t mind playing another good role in a movie of Ebony Life Films’ ‘Fifty’ scale. That is what I long to do as an actor. Twelve years on... What is your view on AMAA? Is there any area you would like the organisers to improve upon? Wow! 13 years! It’s not easy to keep at something that long these days and for that, they deserve their own award. They definitely have areas to improve on. Who doesn’t? Even the Oscars do. One of the areas would be the aspect of sponsorship. I wish they would have more funding by corporate bodies because, when the awards look good and are seen to be credible, the whole industry benefits from it and improves. So, I would say that the improvement I would really like to see would be that of more corporate endorsement and funding.

...I’m not a party person. I love staying indoors when I am not working

Stay focused on improving your art and not your image

- Omoni Oboli

ver the years, Nollywood screen diva, Omoni Oboli, has plotted her career on the right path, strategically choosing to play characters that people would think about for years to come in movies like ‘Entanglement’, ‘Figurine’ and later ‘Fifty’ amongst others. The award-winning actor and movie producer was recently nominated in the ‘Best Female Lead Act’ category at the 2016 Africa Movie Academy Awards( AMAA) for her role as Maria in ‘Fifty’, a movie which captures few pivotal days of four women at the pinnacle of their careers. She studied Foreign Languages at the University of Benin, Edo State, majoring in French. In 1996, while still at the university, she shot her first film. She then took a 10-year break, got married and returned to the screen in 2009 with ‘Entanglement’. With a number of movies to her credit and a recent one, ‘Wives on Strike’ making the waves, Omoni, in this interview, speaks on her nomination, her constructive views on the movie industry, marriage and more.

/ June 5, 2016

You have been in the industry a long time. In your view, do you think the Nigerian movie industry is where it should be? It’s exactly where it should be. We often beat ourselves up about where we should be and forget to put in the right effort to take care of what we have now. This causes us to lose focus in the future thereby losing every opportunity to attain to the heights we desire. If we can first accept where we are now and take steps to first love what we do now and build audience participation for the industry as a whole, we will see a speedy move towards where our colleagues in other countries are now. So, let’s not despise our humble beginnings with our own words. Let us begin to see that we are on a journey and let’s enjoy the journey. The destination isn’t even where other nations are now. It is constantly moving because they are also improving to get even further than where they are now and so should we. Note that we are employing a lot more people today than we had ever dreamed of. So, we have improved. How did you get into the movie industry? At what point did you discover your creative flair? I love acting and thank God for the pioneers. I saw a career in the industry. When some of my friends came to Lagos in my first year of university and told me they had been in the movies, I couldn’t wait for the next trip to Lagos to join them. That was how I found myself in Lagos in 1996 and ended up playing the lead female in three movies; two for Fidelis Duker and one for Hilda Dokubo. As for my creative flair, I have always had it. I knew that I had it since I was a little girl. I knew it when I wrote, produced and directed most of our school and church dramas on parents-teachers days. You started out as an actress and moved to being a producer. What’s the transition like for you? Like I said, I have always written, produced and directed plays. I wouldn’t say it was much of a transition; unless in the eyes of those who didn’t know me earlier. It was a natural progression and I still love acting. My transition to producing and directing only serves to put my acting in the kind of movies I wanted to be seen in.

At what point did you decide to produce your own movie? When I returned to the industry in 2006, I wrote some scripts and they weren’t executed the way I would love to interpret them. Every director sees the same story differently and they did a good job on the scripts but it still wasn’t the way I would have done them so I went to the New York Film Academy in New York to study Digital Filmmaking. The way I saw it, if I wanted my stories to have my DNA, I would have to direct them myself. When I returned, I started work on my own productions. Before then, I had co-produced the award-winning movie, ‘The Rivals’ in 2007, with Blessing Egbe. You are one of the few actors that have a stable home and family. What is the secret? How are you able to keep your home and career going? As long as you and your spouse remember that acting, like every other profession out there, is just a job, you’ll be fine. When you bring it home and expect your

family to treat you as your fans out there would, you are asking for trouble. Like my husband tells everyone, my drama ends on the big screens where it belongs. Notwithstanding, the real tie that binds my marriage is the grace and favour of God.

If you were not an actor, what profession would you have chosen? Hmmm! Definitely a business woman, which I am. If it’s a case of what I would love to have been but because of some subjects, it’s definitely a surgeon.

What is your advice for aspiring actors and those who look up to you for inspiration? Focus on the work because the hype out there about you and the love your fans shower on you every day is directly linked to your work and delivery. Do not get caught up with stardom and neglect your work or good work ethics because if that stops, your fans will turn to another person who will surely replace you sooner or later. Stay focused on improving your art and not your image. No one goes to a mirror, sees his or her dirty face and then starts trying to reach out to clean the image. Improve yourself and your skill and your image out there would stay winning.

What’s that ‘fun fact’ about you that people are not aware of? I’m not a party person. I love staying indoors when I am not working. I enjoy reading a lot. That’s my ‘fun fact’. With a number of movies to your credit, what’s next for Omoni? More and more movies to my credit! I’m currently working on my next project which commences soon. I am currently in the pre-production stage. By God’s grace, we will be giving you all another blockbuster soon!

I’m on a journey to becoming the best version of myself - Linda Ejiofor

lthough she is famous for her role as Bimpe in the MNET series ‘Tinsel’, Linda Ejiofor broke through with her spectacular performance as Ejura in ‘The Meeting’; a performance which came with several award nominations and an eventual win at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for ‘Best Supporting Actress’ in 2015. She has starred in a number of movies since hitting the big screen. She also has an active career as an editorial model, having been the face of several advertising campaigns and TV commercials, including ‘The Apprentice Nigeria’ (Bank PHB billboards, prints and post), Maclean toothpaste amongst others. The graduate of Sociology from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has been nominated for AMAA 2016 in the ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ category.

How does it feel being nominated for AMAA 2016 in the ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ category? I am very excited. It is the AMAAs! It is a big deal and it is my second nomination ever. Do you hope to win? What do you think would give you a win? I think getting a nomination is winning! Everyone nominated was selected from an incredible pool of talent so everyone is a winner.

You won the 2015 ‘Best Supporting Actress’ at the AMVCA for your role in ‘The Meeting’. Does that kind of put any pressure on you as far as your career is concerned? I don’t think so. It was incredible winning that category but I didn’t feel any pressure afterwards. Before now, you had some nominations for ‘best actress’ and ‘best supporting actress’. How did it feel not emerging the winner in the categories?

...I act because I am passionate about acting June 5, 2016 /

REPORTAGE

...I’m not a party person. I love staying indoors when I am not working

Stay focused on improving your art and not your image

- Omoni Oboli

/ June 5, 2016

I’m on a journey to becoming the best version of myself - Linda Ejiofor

...I act because I am passionate about acting June 5, 2016 /

REPORTAGE I don’t think anyone gets into acting simply because they want to win awards. I act because I am passionate about acting and because it makes me extremely happy to be able to live these different lives through the characters I play. What is your view on AMAA generally? The AMAAs have been very consistent, which is impressive. They have put on an event every year since their inception. I think that it is very laudable. How did the journey to the movie industry begin for you? In 2007, a friend of mine dragged me to an audition that MNET was holding. I did not really think too much of it. I went because she insisted. I guess, I did not do too badly because in 2008 when ‘Tinsel’ debuted, they called me back and offered me the role of Bimpe. That was how I started acting professionally. Which was your very first movie? And which would you say brought you to limelight? ‘The Meeting’ by The Audrey Silva Company was my very first feature film. But I had been on ‘Tinsel’

REPORTAGE for few years before then. I think it showed people a different side of me and helped establish my versatility. What is the most extreme change to your personality, hair, body weight etc. that you have done to land a role? I am yet to land a role that has required me to extremely alter my hair or body weight. Personality wise, it is hard to pick the most extreme one because I am a bit shy and quiet and I don’t think I have ever played a timid character. The women I have played have been very outspoken. In which area would you like to improve as an actor? I am still on a journey to becoming the best version of myself so I am very open to improving in every aspect possible. What would your dream role be and what would you bring to it? It would probably be a character with mental issues.

If you were not an actor, what profession would you choose? I would be an actor. I honestly cannot think of doing anything else. What’s that ‘fun fact’ about you that people are not aware of? I dance. I think that is fun. Tell us a bit about yourself, educational background and growing up years? I am from a family of seven and I’m the second child. I love playing volleyball and I love to travel. I attended Labo Memorial Nursery and Primary School, then Federal Government Girls College, Onitsha. My tertiary education was at the University of Port Harcourt and I served in Jigawa State. Growing up was really nice. My siblings and I were very mischievous and we had a lot of adventures. What informed your choice of career as a teenager? Well, I did not set out to be an actor. I wanted to

work in advertising. I found it intriguing so I pursued that career path until I got a chance to be on ‘Tinsel’ and a whole new world opened up to me. I have never regretted the choice to act instead. Who is your role model in the industry? I look up to a lot of people; to name a few - RMD, Joke Silva and Rita Dominic. What does style mean to you? Style means owning whatever fashion choice you’ve made. I think the event or occasion should have a major say in what you decide to wear. Are you in a relationship? I don’t talk about my private life. Who is your ideal man? Compatibility is most important for me. What would you say life has taught you? Never say never!

As an actor, it is important to take on work that stretches me

You are basically new in Nollywood and already winning awards for your efforts. How does that make you feel? Does it put some sort of pressure on you? If I feel any kind of pressure, it is the good kind. I am grateful for the awards and the recognition but my focus is always on the work; acting and being good at it. I am thankful every day that I get a chance to play these diverse characters and impact the world in my own little way. I just want to be the best possible actor I can be.

What was it like interpreting your role in ‘Failing’? Was it challenging or just okay? Every role that I have taken on, so far in my career, has been challenging. It is important for my process as an actor to take on work that stretches me and shows range. ‘Falling’ was and still is one of the more challenging projects I have done. The character, Muna, was complicated and she was faced with a very difficult situation. Playing her made me ask myself certain questions and if I would have made the choices she made. I am grateful for the opportunity and I would do it over again. ‘Thank you’ to the director, Niyi Akinmolayan, the producer, Uduak Oguamanam, and all my co actors, especially Blossom Chukwujekwu and Kunle Remi.

t’s been a remarkable year for Adesua Etomi, the Nollywood starlet who has rocketed from unknown to A-list in almost no time. First, it was her win at the AMVCAs as ‘Best Actress in a Drama’. Next was her riveting performance in ‘Failing’ and a recent nomination for the forthcoming AMAA 2016 for ‘Best Actress in a Leading Role’ alongside other prominent actresses for the same movie. The screen diva, who relocated to Nigeria from the UK few years ago, made her big screen acting debut in 2014 when ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’ was released in Nigerian cinemas. Her riveting performance as the abused Debbie projected her as one to watch. With back to back stellar performances, first as Layo in ‘Brave’ and as Sharon in ‘Gidi Up Season 2’, Adesua Etomi proved to critics that she had the requisite acting chops.

Which would you say brought you to limelight? ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’ was my very first film and it went to the cinemas, so that introduced me to the film world. ‘Brave’ also gave me a lot of mileage. The two films created a domino effect within and outside the country. In recent times, I think being nominated at all for these different awards for my performance in ‘Falling’ has also helped with visibility.

...A performer that stops improving stops growing / June 5, 2016

At what age did you discover your love for acting? I was really young but I remember watching ‘Coming to America’ in 1993 and wanting to be Lisa. So, I joined the drama club at Corona Primary School, Victoria Island (Lagos) and started to explore my creative side.

You are nominated for AMAA 2016 for ‘Best Actress in a Leading Role’ alongside other prominent actresses. How does that make you feel? It is very humbling. It is almost surreal to hear my name being called in the same breath as some of my favourite Nigerian actors. I look up to these women and I think they are amazing. Getting nominated for an AMAA, to me, is already winning. Whichever way it goes, this is something I will remember for a long time.

- Adesua Etomi

When did your journey to the movie industry begin? I got cast by Emem Isong for my first ever film, ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’ in 2013. It was released in April 2014. Shortly after that was the short film, ‘Brave, by Dolapo Adeleke and so began my sojourn into the movie industry.

growing. And if you do not grow, there is a risk that you may get complacent. And once you get complacent, the only way is down. So as an actor, I’m focused on improving in every aspect of the business of performance. What would your dream role be and what would you bring to it? Every role is my dream role. I am interested in how flawed humans can be. I am not interested in fairy tales or perfection. I am interested in real people who have flaws and the struggles we face as humans while trying to get through this journey called life. If you were not an actor, what profession would you have chosen? Acting is my primary passion. I don’t have a plan B. I am doing the one thing I have wanted to do all my life. This is it. I am very grateful that I get a chance to do this every single day. What’s that ‘fun fact’ about you that people are not aware of? I don’t know if this qualifies as a ‘fun fact’ or something that people don’t know: I am lefthanded. Tell us a bit about yourself, educational background, where you grew up and fond memories of your growing up years. I have two older siblings. I attended Corona Primary School, Victoria Island, Lagos. Then, I went to Queen’s College briefly before relocating to the United Kingdom where I continued my education at the Waverly Girls School in London. From there, I went to the City College in Coventry and finally the University of Wolverhampton. I have diplomas in Performance, Musical Theatre and Physical Theatre. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts. Growing up was a wellrounded experience. I was born in Owerri in Imo State. My early years were spent in Lagos and I moved to the United Kingdom when I was 13. What informed your choice of career as a teenager? I pretty much knew that I wanted to be a performer well before my teenage years but it took me a little while to pluck the courage to pursue it professionally. Are you in a relationship? I give so much of myself away as a performer that it is absolutely important that my private life stays private. What do you look out for in a man? He needs to love God, have a great sense of humour and make me laugh. Of course, he needs to be driven and ambitious. How would you describe your style? Three words: casual, chic and comfortable. Who is your role model? My mother. She is amazing and one of the strongest women I know.

In which area would you like to improve as an actor? A performer that stops improving stops

June 5, 2016 /

As an actor, it is important to take on work that stretches me

...A performer that stops improving stops growing / June 5, 2016

- Adesua Etomi

In which area would you like to improve as an actor? A performer that stops improving stops

June 5, 2016 /

REPORTAGE How does it feel being nominated for ‘Best Directional Debut’? It is an exhilarating experience; very encouraging because this movie took over two years to come to fruition. What is the movie ‘8 Bars and a Clef’ all about? What was directing it like? ‘8 Bars and a Clef’ is a story about a young man who has to overcome a learning defect, a dysfunctional family and an overbearing record label executive in order to achieve his dream of becoming a music superstar. It was a challenging and rewarding experience. I had a good mix of new and experienced actors so I had to navigate through and connect with each one. As a film maker, what is your assessment of AMAA? This will be the first time I will be attending AMAA. It’s great to go as a nominee. AMAA is a great platform for the film industry in Africa at large. It’s an academy system where you are nominated and chosen from a select group of top industry professionals so an AMAA nod is like an industry wide acceptance. If you have to advise the organisers on the way forward, what would your advice be? That would be for them to maintain the pedigree of the awards. How did the journey to making movies begin for you? I have always been a storyteller. I watched a lot of films and read widely so I always imagined bringing characters to life. I worked as a production assistant during my time in university and once I finished, I made my first web series. How would you describe your life as a film maker? It has been a learning experience till date. Every project is different. I have to learn the tricks of the trade, working with different people and, most importantly, how to find and maintain my voice. For one who has always been in the corporate world, at what point did the love for film making come up? My interest in film making had always been present through the years. I made some short form content and also took some short film courses. However, the plunge to work in film full time happened after I volunteered at AFRIFF 2013, which gave me a deeper appreciation of the industry. How difficult was it for you to finance your first movie? I had a lot of support from family and friends and I also got a grant from Project Act Nollywood, which was a life saver. However, as the film took a while to finish, I had to keep financing till date.

...Never stop learning because life never stops teaching

I have always been a storyteller

- Chioma Onyenwe

s her first feature film, ‘8 Bars and a Clef’ successfully premiered in Lagos over the weekend and got an AMAA nomination for ‘Best Directional Debut’, emerging film maker, Chioma Onyenwe, is no doubt having a career defining moment. The movie producer and director has a background in Economics and Management from the University of Lagos and Imperial College, London respectively. She has also undertaken film courses at the London Film Academy and Met Film School, London, with interests spanning film, television, online content and documentaries. Chioma, who is also a Programme Co-ordinator of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and Consultant on Distribution to Genesis Deluxe Cinemas tells us more about her career and more. 12

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What did you learn the hard way in your career and how did it happen? I learnt to really work at my pace and not rush any aspect of the production, especially the planning process. It came really with the challenges I faced in post production; it was the result of not putting all the elements in place before day one of shoot. How stressful is your job? Are you able to maintain a comfortable or healthy work life balance? My job is a stressful but rewarding endeavour that is project based so I have a cyclical work schedule. This way, I am able to maintain a healthy work-life balance by prioritizing and taking time off when necessary. What is the most useful piece of advice you have been given? Never stop learning because life never stops teaching. What is the greatest challenge of a movie director? That would be recognising that your main goal is just to steer the ship. Film making is a hugely collaborative effort and the chain is only as strong as the weakest link. What is the one thing to keep in mind when making a film? Understand the core of the story so you can keep that through the film and get the best people for the project, cast and crew and enable them to do their best work. What’s the secret to working with great actors? Every actor brings a different creative process to your production. It’s important to understand their process and how to facilitate it. What do you like most about your job? I like the opportunity to work with different people on different projects so no two days are the same. When do story ideas usually hit you? Story ideas come from everywhere; from the environment, from a situation that occurs while just living day-to-day in Lagos, from other people. When a story comes and day in, day out, I can’t stop thinking about it, then it’s worth exploring.

luxury

wines spirits

F EA T U R E

FOOD E By Pamela Echemunor

With Pamela Echemunor

Making Healthy Sharwama

SWEET AND SOUR WHISKEY COCKTAILS Mixing whiskey in cocktails usually gives off a woody and somewhat fruity feel when its fully in the mix, using sweet whiskey creates a sweet and sour feel and completely changes the drink’s texture, that is quite tingly on the taste buds, but its advisable to be careful when ingesting it, because one tends to get carried away. Here are some Sweet and sour whiskey cocktails to try.

Blood Scotch Ingredients

• 11/4 ozs scotch • 1 oz orange juice • 1 oz sweet vermouth • 1 oz cherry brandy Grenadine

Method

Pour all ingredients into a shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously, then Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry or enjoy straight! Drink responsibly.

Guava Watermelon Margarita Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila • 1 oz spiced rum • 2 oz guava (Nectar) • 2 oz watermelon juice (Freshly Squeezed) • 1 pinch sea salt • Crushed ice • Watermelon (Sliced, for garnish)

Method

In a cocktail shaker add Tequila, Spiced Rum, guava nectar, watermelon juice, a pinch of sea salt and top with lots of ice. Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled glass filled with fresh crushed ice. Garnish with a slice of watermelon and a sprig of fresh mint.

Sharwama is said to be of Arabic origin. This delicious sandwich can be made with all forms of meat ranging from chicken to turkey, beef or even lamb. In this recipe, we will be using chicken breast because believe it or not, Sharwama can be quite healthy, but it all depends on what you put in it. Try out this mouthwatering sharwama recipe.

Pineapple whiskey Sour

Ingredients

• Pineapple • Whiskey • Lemon Juice

Method

Mix all ingredients in shaker with crushed ice and then pour in cocktail glass. Line tip of glass round with salt and cut a quarter lime or lemon as garnish on the base of glass.

Grown Up Chocolate Milk

Ingredients

• 1 oz Godiva Chocolate Liqueur • 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur • 1 oz Scotch • 1 oz chocolate syrup (Hersey’s) • 1/2 oz heavy cream • Marshmallow • 2 ice cubes

Method

In a cocktail shaker add Godiva, scotch ,Bailey’s, heavy cream and ice, shake vigorously .Strain into a whiskey glass with ice, topped with marshmallow and a drizzle of Hersey’s milk chocolate syrup.

BEEF SHARWAMA Ingredients • Chicken breast • Cabbage • Carrot • Onions (Optional) • Flat or unleavened bread • Spring onions • Celery (Optional) • Fat free Salad cream or Mayonnaise • Ketchup • Cucumber • Ground Chilli pepper • Sweet and Sour Sauce • Olive oil • Light yoghurt Method: Slice chicken in long thin strips. In a bowl mix sliced chicken breast with spices, marinate overnight in refrigerator, (The longer it marinates the more flavoured it will be). Then in a small nonstick pan, place defrosted chicken and stir fry with spring onions till juicy and brown then set aside. Wash and grate carrots, cut onions in long thin ring form, slice cabbage, cucumber and celery, set aside. Mix mayonnaise, ketchup and sweet and sour sauce or Yoghurt, sweet and sour sauce and ketchup in bottle and shake till fully combined. Take flat bread and put in the chicken followed by sliced vegetables, chilly, ketchup mix and finally celery, wrap the bread and place on grill or oven for 3 minutes, turn on other side and serve wrap in foil paper or cling film. Email: pamela.echemunor@gmail.com, Instagram: @nanya2207, Twitter @nanya2207. June 5, 2016 /

working on each of these areas over time and watch the pounds come off, cholesterol levels decrease, blood pressure normalize and subsequently, your mood, improve! 2. Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!

Dr. Sade Adeyi

Can Leading A Healthy Lifestyle Contribute Positively Towards Mental Health? The answer to this is Yes, Yes, and Yes! There are a variety of mental health disorders, and each has its own individual set of risk factors ranging from genetics, to environment, to lifestyle choices. However, it is safe to say that keeping healthy overall can contribute towards stable mental health. In the same way that we work hard to keep our bodies fit, we need to work hard also to keep our minds sound.

1. Improve your Nutrition

KATHY EMIKO

To lose weight and maintain a healthy physique, you must nourish your body with high quality food, especially lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Throw out processed carbs along with sugar loaded soft drinks and sweets. Foods comprised of these simple, processed carbs are usually very high on the glycemic index. This causes a spike on the insulin levels, which negatively affect the metabolism. Too much insulin tells the body to store fat quickly and prevent your body from drawing on fat for energy needs .If you want to lose weight, you must make sure that your body’s fat is the primary source of energy. Inshort, Avoid The White Stuff.

Meals Must Be Kept Small: This is a must if you want the scale to shift and your cloths to be loose. Depending on your activity level, your meals should

with a low to moderate amount of sugars, saturated fats (e.g butter, lard, palm oil) and trans fats (fried foods, packaged snacks) and increase vegetables, fresh fruits, fiber and unsaturated fats (avocados, olives, nuts, salmon, vegetable and canola oil) intake. Some of the hardest things for us to work on as Nigerians are decreasing our carbohydrate, soda and salt intake, and avoiding cooking with palm oil….but why don’t you try

BodyPerfect

EAT YOUR BODY ON FIRE TO BURN FAT

/ June 5, 2016

Cut down on or quit Smoking

• One of the best things you can do for your mind, body, life, and family is to reduce or quit smoking. Cigarette smoking has been shown to increase the risk of developing depression, and continuing to smoke while depressed has also been shown to worsen mood symptoms. The research on this is ongoing because many smokers report feeling emotionally lifted immediately after they smoke a cigarette; however, the cumulative effect increases negative emotions while damaging almost every organ in the body. Cigarette smoking is due to a dependence on or addiction to nicotine (a major toxin in cigarettes), and it often takes a concerted effort to stop. If you need help with quitting, talk to your primary doctor today, it could be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made!

Here are a few tips about how leading a healthier lifestyle overall can positively impact your mental health:

• Food plays a major role in how we think and feel. It is important that meal times be enjoyable, however diets high in sugar and unhealthy fats can contribute to weight gain and chronic diseases like Hypertension, Diabetes and Heart Disease. This in turn, increases our chances of developing anxiety and mood disorders like Depression or Generalized Anxiety Disorder. At the same time, it is unhealthy to have extreme goals regarding an ideal weight as this can then increase the chances of weight disorders such as Anorexia and Bulimia. The key is a balance – eat a diet

• Most of us are guilty of not doing this enough (myself included). Exercise causes the release of chemicals, called endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in our brains, and thereby leads to reduced stress, improved sleep, and even increased self-esteem. All of these factors can improve Depression and prevent Anxiety, all the while improving fitness and health. If you are a good self-motivator, you can exercise at home – 90minutes a week of moderate intensity exercises is beneficial for most people, but discuss with your primary doctor first to ensure this recommendation is right for you.

not just slimming but fitness

not be more than 200-300 calories. Your energy intake is spread throughout the day and this will contribute to your weight loss.

Consume Complate Proteins: This increase your BMR (Basic metabolic rate) The best sources include lean chicken breast, white fish, tuna, egg white and turkey. The body uses up enormous stores of energy to properly digest and process protein. That is a lot of calorie burning taking place! When you consume protein with every meal instead of simple carbs, the body releases lipase, a hormone that makes the body rely on fat as its primary fuel source, instead of releasing insulin. Complex Carbohydrates found in whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables are a must for boosting metabolism. Complex carbohydrates are processed slowly, staying in the gut for long time; Blood-sugar levels won’t swing wildly out of control, so insulin levels stay steady. Remember, moderation is key! Some fat is required for the body to run properly, but it is essential fatty acids-efas. Efa accelerate fat

...TO BE CONTINUED If you have questions about mental health or desire a mental health check-up, contact me at ask@yourprimarydoc.com. Dr. Sade Adeyi, MD MPH Consultant Family Medicine Physician at the Center for Advanced Specialty Surgery (@CASSurgery) Connect with Dr. Adeyi @YourPrimaryDoc on Instagram and Twitter

burning! In the presence of essential fatty acids, cells burn greater amounts of oxygen. The more oxygen carried to the cells, the faster body fat is burned. Not every oil is an efa, so be careful.Choose oils like olive, flaxseed, pumpkin, fish and grapeseed oil. Be careful with the quatity. All oil is 120-140 calories a tablespoon.Do not cook with these oil just put over your salad. It Is Important That Adequate Water Is Consumed In Other To Help The Body Assimilate Micronutrients. Vitamins And Minerals Help To Flush Out Toxins. Without Adequate Water, Bodily Functions Cannot Take Place. Supplement Your Diet With High Quality Multivitamin. It Is Difficult To Get All The Minerals And Vitamins From Diet Alone, Especially When You Are Physically Active Or Under Stress. Are you ready to lose weight? If yes, do these things you have just read and stop cheating! There is no weightloss in a pill! Do not be decieved.You cannot eat what you like, and think a magic pill is in a bottle will help you burn fat; that is fairy tale.

HERE IS THE MATHS CALORIES CONSUMED > CALORIES BURNED OFF = WEIGHT GAIN. CALORIES CONSUMED < CALORIES BURNED OFF = WEIGHT LOSS. CALORIES CONSUMED = CALORIES BURNED OFF = WEIGHT CONTROL. Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant. Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant. Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko. BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko.

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LARA Art presents Down The Rabbit Hole By Oscar Ochiogu Ade Adekola & Folu Majekodunmi

ALARA Art recently in Lagos, unveiled ‘Down The Rabbit Hole’, a conceptual installation of light and photography by Logo Oluwamuyiwa “Logor” Adeyemi, featuring excerpts from his widely acclaimed ‘Monochrome Lagos’ and other works. The exhibition which opened to the public on Friday 20th May will run until 18th June 2016. Logor’s first major project, ‘Monochrome Lagos’, is a unique reflection on the city of Lagos that strips down the noisy colours of the busy metropolis. The works are a visual digital archive, a unique reflection on an old city, and an extraordinary expose of its idiosyncrasies and aesthetics. Down the Rabbit Hole achieves a true paradigm shift in how the city is presented and appreciated by a global audience, including local residents who typically rush past the unchanging beauty of this old town. Down the Rabbit Hole is Logor’s maiden exhibition with ALARA Art and doubles as the debut exhibition in the ‘ALARA Emerging Artists’ series.

Faridah Folawiyo, Reni Folawiyo & Michelle Okocha

A Guest & Adesuwa Dozie

Papa Omotayo & Eric Idiahi

Sayo Olumide, Chloe Benson & Sal Gbajabiamila

A Guest, Tola Adegbite & Ebi Williams

Carolina Saraki & Teni Majekodunmi

Lakin Ogunbanwo & Nkechi Bakare

A Guest & Gbemi Abudu.

Adeboye Martins

Ebi Atawodi & a Guest

8 Bars and A Clef Premier @ The Palms By Oscar Ochiogu

Bimbo Akintola

Deyemi Okanlawon

Chioma Ude

Rita Dominic

IBK Spaceship Boi Chioma Onyenwe

Chijioke

Clarence Peters

wale ojo

Uti Nwachukwu

Okey Uzoeshi

Tunde Durosimni-Etti & Fela Mosurd

The AMAA nominated ‘8 Bars and A Clef’, finally, last week at the Genesis Deluxe Cinemas, Lekki Lagos to a packed crowd of stars, family and friends. In attendance were cast and crew of the movie including Bimbo Akintola, Wale Ojo, Ade Bantu, IBK SPaceshipboi etc. The movie explores the themes of love, drama, and glory while featuring original music from the leading character played by IBK SpaceshipBoi. “It is fulfilling to see the work that took over two years finally premiere”, says director Chioma Onyenwe. “I am incredibly grateful to the cast and crew of the movie for their support and thank everyone who came out to support 8 Bars and a Clef” she added.

June 5, 2016 /