Archive for the Featured Indie Interviews Category

Danny Needham – “I do love me some lemon meringue pie!”

On 26th August 2016 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

When most of us see athletes we only see the finished product. Many are unaware of the emotional and financial sacrifices, the endless hours of dedication and the burning self belief that propel a person forward in the world of elite sports. I salute today’s guest for what he has put himself through. Danny Needham is a decathlete that has represented Great Britain through various age levels and he is here to talk about the life of an athlete and so much more. I feel very privileged to be in the presence of this gifted young man with a bright future ahead of him.

Hello Danny and welcome to TBUR. Please introduce yourself to my lovely readers.

Hello Munir, Thank you very much for having me and taking the time out to read this! Okay, so sport has always been a big part of my life. As a youngster I participated in a wide variety of activities until I found something I truly had a passion for. This being athletics at the age of 11. I tried out all the different events and found that sprint hurdling was something I excelled in. So I decided to specialise in this for around 5-6 years between the ages of 13 and 19. During this time I won numerous national titles and medals and was fortunate enough to represent England. However, I did eventually make the decision to turn to the decathlon as I did not see myself achieving what I felt I was not only capable of, but was born to do. This being to be a regular competitor at global events and ultimately win an Olympic medal. This decision was difficult because I loved the event, but I thought back to my younger days and how I was talented across all events and it just made sense. This choice proved a success when I got selected to represent Great Britain at the combined events international championships after just 5 months of training for the event. This success continued for the next few years and I achieved another 2 more GB vests. Nonetheless, these years were very trying for me not only physically but mentally due to injury struggles. But we will get into that. Away from athletics, I have also been a high achiever throughout education, performing very well in my GCSE’s and ultimately graduating university with a Bsc honours degree in Sport and Exercise Science.

I believe that I have shown a glimpse of what I can do with the struggle that I’ve had to go through and I feel that with the extra financial help I WILL make it and compete with the best!

Wow, with so many different sports to participate in as a decathlete, how often do you train and how much time do you have to dedicate to each discipline?

Yeah it is very difficult indeed. But it is something I love to do and as stupid as it may sound, I love the feeling I get after a hard and gruelling training session when you know you have worked to your limits! I just find it oddly satisfying. I train 6 days a week (Monday to Saturday) and on some of those days I train in the morning and the evening. In terms of time – collectively it would total up to between 35-40 hours per week. So it pretty much feels like a full time job! In terms of time spent on the different individual events, there is not really a set schedule that people follow as everyone is completely different and will have their own strengths/weaknesses. Personally, my throws are my weaker events so it is vital to spend time mastering the technique and always aiming to improve. Nevertheless, it is still important to keep trying to push forward in your stronger events as well just as the ultimate goal is to obviously achieve more overall points!

Well you’ve been doing pretty ok so far (understatement of the year) talk me through the different levels you’ve competed at.

Thank you! So I’ve competed across the board, starting out as a youngster competing at low key competitions for my local club, and my most recent that was before my last injury was the Indoor Combined Events International Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, where I competed for Great Britain. This competition played host to some of the best decathletes in Europe. It was an incredible experience, and I actually won 2 out of the 7 events (it is heptathlon indoors). Moreover, I also won athlete of the competition which was decided by the GB team managers and athletes because I battled through various demons and even a broken wrist, to ultimately show what combined events is truly about! The next step for me is to compete on a wider global standard at an event such as the Olympics or world championships!

You are a tough cookie young man, what’s the process of recovery when you get injured and how does it affect you?

That’s a very good question! Well obviously it would depended on the injury itself. So one major injury I suffered back in 2013 was an avulsion fracture to my hamstring where it attaches to my pelvis. So basically my hamstring had ripped the bone away from my pelvis. I know what you’re thinking… OUCH! In this case, generally, an operation is required to repair the fracture, however a lot of research suggests that the natural way of healing is more beneficial! This meant that I had to undergo solid rest for around 2-3 months followed by a 5-6 month gruelling rehabilitation programme. My most recent injury was a stress fracture to my navicular bone in my foot along with some cartilage damage also. This was another injury in which the recovery time was quite substantial – around 7 months. This inevitably has a detrimental effect on you as an athlete – both physically and mentally. It affects you physically obviously because you lose your fitness during the recovery period and have to work extremely hard in order to return to this level again. But the worst parts are probably the psychological effects that injury comes with. This is something you have not to let overcome you which can ultimately lead to worries such as whether the injury will reoccur when you return. So to summarise – injuries suck!

The high volume of training also means that I need to consume close to 5000 calories a day due to the amount that I burn off in order to help with recovery and maintaining my energy levels. I am allowed to treat myself every so often though – I mean I do love me some lemon meringue pie!

On a scale of 1-10 how hard do you have to work to get back into shape after being out with an injury and what does it feel like during that time?

In my case it’s definitely up there between 8-10. It was extremely challenging and really tested my mental strength. Having to stick to a monotonous, but crucial rehabilitation programme is testing, but these things happen in sport and you just need to remind yourself of why you started in the first place! I actually experienced and even overcame depression in my most recent injury. It got me at such a low state, and to be honest I doubted myself at one point. But I have such incredible support around me, and this support coupled with my mental toughness, it wasn’t long before I was on the grind again! Furthermore, in my case I’ve always got back to fitness faster than normally expected, and I tend to not lose my technical ability that much so in terms of that it is just a case of reminding myself and going through the motions again. I would definitely say the psychological side is more trying than the physical – for me anyway as I love to work hard.

Good to hear you’re back on track (pardon the pun), I’ve heard many an athlete speak about lack of sponsorship holding them back, can you elaborate on that?

Yes of course I can. Money has always been something that I and my family have struggled with. But I do not feel bad about it as it has made me appreciate it much more! In terms of the lack of sponsorship, I believe it massively holds you back, particularly in such a gruelling and demanding event such as the decathlon. Firstly, due to the strenuous activity that this event involves, this means that the body is put through its paces day-in and day-out, therefore regular physiotherapy treatment is necessary in order to keep your body in one piece. However, these sessions are expensive and are something that I have never really been able to afford regularly, which could have potentially helped to avoid the injuries that I have experienced. Additionally, there is also the equipment aspect of it. I mean I compete in 10 different events, which means that I will need equipment ranging from pole vault poles, to varying footwear, to weighted throwing implements. And these are not cheap!! On top of this, there are competition fees, accommodation, travel to and from events and training – the list goes on. I have had part time jobs or else I would not have been able to get by – but I feel this just inhibited me more because I was training 4-5 hours, then heading to work and not getting back home until late. Also, more often than not with part time jobs, the schedules are not very consistent with my training which is all over the place. One thing that is essential in the decathlon is recovery – it can be almost as important as training and having a part time job made this impossible. I and many people believe that I have the capability and talent to compete at a very high standard, however the financial struggle and lack of help is bound to limit me considering what needs to be covered to compete at the top. I believe that I have shown a glimpse of what I can do with the struggle that I’ve had to go through and I feel that with the extra financial help I WILL make it and compete with the best!

I always assumed sponsors would queue up at your door as you are a great athletic prospect, how does one get a sponsor?

As I’ve said – I have shown only a glimpse of my capability. In terms of getting sponsorship it is about being consistent at a specific standard. So to elaborate on this, I would have to be ranked in the top 3 in the country and achieving the decathlon standard regularly for various global competitions (i.e European athletics champs, world athletics champs, etc). Once you reach this level, then sponsors would start to come but it is a tough journey to get to it. Moreover, there are funding opportunities with British athletics as they are linked with the national lottery. They have two different types of funding – development and podium. Development funding refers to athletes that have shown promising results and progress in their event and have the potential to reach global medals in the next year or so. Podium funding refers to those athletes that have achieved a medal at such international events. I definitely have the ability to reach the top, however with the unstructured and ‘getting by’ approach I’ve had, it is simply not good enough in this event to be able to sustain this consistency. I’ve shown that I can reach this standard and be competitive on a global scale, I just feel like the added financial aid will help to give me the tools in order to show that I belong at that level.

It got me at such a low state, and to be honest I doubted myself at one point. But I have such incredible support around me, and this support coupled with my mental toughness, it wasn’t long before I was on the grind again!

If any potential sponsor is reading this why should they go for Danny Needham over someone of equal athletic ability?

That is a great question! Firstly, I believe that I have great determination and drive which is evident from the journey that I have battled through. If I set myself a goal, I will do everything in my power to reach it. On top of this, and not to blow my own trumpet as it were, I do feel that I am a marketable individual and have the whole package. So as I have mentioned, not only am I academically bright, but I am also gifted in a wide-variety of sporting activities, not just athletics. This ranges from trampolining, to golf, and even parkour. Moreover, I have had experience in the modelling industry, and have been approached for shoots with companies such as Specsavers, Nike and Men’s Health. To talk about me as a person, I am a genuine, kind-hearted and confident guy. I also have a great affinity with children and young adults. I worked as a multi-sports coach at my local youth centre with ages 7-19. I found this extremely rewarding and the relationship I was able to build with all ages and both genders was clearly evident from the feedback and results that was achieved through my sessions. In view of all this, I believe that I have all the essential qualities to work extremely hard for my dream, but also to fulfill any promotional requirements requested by possibly future sponsors.

A future brand ambassador if I ever saw one! What is your diet like?

I do have to follow a strict diet! So yes, this does mean avoiding takeaways, alcohol and sweets. I have a very balanced diet. It is quite difficult due to the variety of activities that my training involves but I am very dedicated to my craft so I make it work. The high volume of training also means that I need to consume close to 5000 calories a day due to the amount that I burn off in order to help with recovery and maintaining my energy levels. I am allowed to treat myself every so often though – I mean I do love me some lemon meringue pie!

I’m more of a Mississippi mud pie man myself haha. What’s it like watching live decathletes on TV and not being there participating?

Also a very good choice haha! Well, to be honest it was very difficult when injured because I know in my heart I deserve to be at such events. Nonetheless, I do get excited because I see people that I have previously beaten in a specific event and it reassures me that I will be there one day. Just need the financial help in order to maintain consistency in training structure and keeping my body together through physio treatment.

Yeah it is very difficult indeed. But it is something I love to do and as stupid as it may sound, I love the feeling I get after a hard and gruelling training session when you know you have worked to your limits! I just find it oddly satisfying.

Well you’re definitely looking good at the moment. Danny thank you very much for coming on TBUR and taking the time to educate us all and I can’t wait to see you on the podium.

Awesome! Well thank you very much for having me. Been a pleasure!

AT THE MOMENT DANNY IS IN THE RUNNING TO BE THE FACE OF JD SPORTS. IF YOU WANT TO SEE HIM IN HIS UNDERWEAR YOU CAN HELP BY VOTING HERE! IT’S EASY, FOLLOW THE LINK AND CLICK THE LIKE BUTTON.

Danny is active on Instagram and can also be contacted on Facebook. It’s a great opportunity to support a future Olympic medal winner and learn a thing or two about what it takes to compete.

Talib Kweli – “Music and everything I do, I would be doing in my spare time whether I made money or not”

On 18th September 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

I love hip hop and I love Talib Kweli. I recently got to hang out with him backstage at his concert in London and it was great to interview an MC who I have idolised from a very young age and he was such a cool guy who was incredibly generous with his time (I was with him while he was having his pre concert fried chicken). He needs no introduction to any fan of hip hop. As a part of rap duo BlackStar him and Mos Def fast gained recognition as lyrical beasts. He has worked with artists such as Kanye West, Common, John legend, Norah Jones and so many more. Jay-Z paid homage to him with the lyrics ‘If skills sold, truth be told, I’d probably be lyrically, Talib Kweli’. Today on TBUR I am unashamedly star-struck by my guest and very happy to share our conversation with you guys.

Your musicality has always been overlooked in favour of your lyricism. I’ve noticed that you make references to different eras and genres in your music. Can it be frustrating to not have your studious attention recognised?

Frustrating is the wrong word but it’s definitely something that I’ve had to focus on and remind people of by making certain musical decisions, certain career decisions based on the fact that sometimes people do get caught up in the lyricism and don’t focus on the musicality. The fact is there’s a lot of lyrical MCs who are proficient and very technically dope but not everybody is into every single artist like that because they don’t have the musicality. People wouldn’t respect me for what I do if it wasn’t for the beat selection, if it wasn’t for the musicality and the beatmakers and producers that I have chosen to work with.

It allows us to see beyond what we are taught and what we are taught is that we were slaves and we are criminals and that we are thugs. That’s what we’re taught from a eurocentric, western point of view. It is important that we teach that we are just as balanced and just as human as any other group of people on the planet.

You have always used social media to reach out. You even have a MySpace account, do you think that the interactions between artist and fans has really changed much when you get down to basics or are Facebook and Twitter doing the same thing as previous social networks?

The latter two that you mentioned have definitely evolved the process as have the artists that have come along. I think the artists that are successful now are the best navigators of how to reach the fans directly whether it is social media or not. You don’t see Drake using a social network that often but he navigates social networks very wisely whether it’s Twitter or Apple Music or soundcloud, he drops the music and gets it directly to fans. Most artists are now no longer depending on the traditional gatekeepers.

200-250 shows a years is what you have been averaging for years and yet you still take the time to respond to fans as well as campaign for many noble causes, what’s your secret to being able to fit it all in?

I love it. When you see me on social networks recently doing shows, it’s the thing that I want to do. Music and everything I do I would be doing in my spare time whether I made money or not. I just found a way to make my passion into my career.

As a rapper I am an actor, but I have invented this character. I am the director and I wrote the script. It’s still a character but the character is a caricature and an exaggerated version of myself and the acting training helps me to bring that out on stage.

I fell in love with hip hop when I heard ‘It takes two’ in 1988, when your music came into my life it ensured that I would stay in this relationship for the long term. Did you know that your work would touch people the way that it does when you started out?

The way that you feel about hip hop is the way that I feel about hip hop. The record that you just mentioned is one of the records that made me fall in love with hip hop. That’s one of the eras, ‘Vapors’ and ‘Don’t believe the hype’. The way that people are fans of my music I’m happy because I was a fan and am still a fan.

In your previous interviews you name-check a variety of rappers. When I hear you talk about them I can tell you’ve really taken the time to discover their music and go beyond that to learn about them as a person. Is such attention to detail with regards to other artists a common thing in the industry as I’ve not noticed anyone else doing that in interviews unless it’s a beef?

It’s common amongst people who are serious about it. Like, when Common drops a new album, when Yasiin Bey comes out with a challenge to other rappers. It’s not just me, it’s all the people that I associate myself with. We’re all very serious about our music.

As mentioned your work does touch people. I know you studied experimental theatre at university, do you think your craft was helped by that training?

Absolutely, the training I learnt in theatre school is very applicable to hip hop. The sense memory, the blocking, the characterisation, just the overall technique to being an actor works very well on stage. As a rapper I am an actor, but I have invented this character. I am the director and I wrote the script. It’s still a character but the character is a caricature and an exaggerated version of myself and the acting training helps me to bring that out on stage.

You’ve said that you are a student of history. Is there any specific history you pay attention to and if so, why?

I think it’s important for black people and people of African descent to challenge western ideals of history and challenge eurocentric viewpoints of history as in certain sections we are erased out of it and it’s important for us to stand up and acknowledge the African, diasporic influence over all historical events. Whether we were first, second, third or fourth it is important to acknowledge what we did. It allows us to see beyond what we are taught and what we are taught is that we were slaves and we are criminals and that we are thugs. That’s what we’re taught from a eurocentric, western point of view. It is important that we teach that we are just as balanced and just as human as any other group of people on the planet.

You always hear people say “In my day music was better” and the same is said about certain times in hip hop. Do you really think that is the case or do people get stuck in a golden era that they never want to leave?

I think when you are in college and in high school you are discovering who you are and music and art has a lot to do with that discovery. You’re using music as identity. So you grow up a certain way. You might have listened to Nas when you were 17 years old and you’re like “because I listened to Nas, I’m this type of person” and you identify with that and you link up with other people who are Nas fans or Wu Tang or Mobb Deep fans. Because that helps you identify who you are as a person you are developing who you are and there’s nothing in the world that can compare to that based on your personal experience and emotion. If you’re a soldier boy then that’s who you identify with so I guess what forms your discovery of yourself is where you’re most comfortable.

Music and everything I do I would be doing in my spare time whether I made money or not. I just found a way to make my passion into my career.

Some say that it is easier to get involved in the creative industry now because of social media, others say it was easier for pioneers of the arts (in the 20^th century) to get exposure because audiences were being given something new, therefore it was easier to grab their attention. Do you agree with either of these statements and what are your thoughts?

YouTube and other social platforms allow you to have the opportunities I never had when I was starting out. If it wasn’t for record companies spending millions of dollars to put my name out there, prior to social media it was a lot of work to get your music in the hands of the people. In the early days of hip hop black and latino people were struggling to get this sound into the mainstream and it definitely wasn’t easy for what were essentially, street kids to get their stories heard.

What advice would you give to aspiring rappers who don’t know where to start?

Get creating and put your stuff out there. If you want to get discovered then you have to let people know your work and put your name and your product out there. There are plenty of tools that allow you to create and self promote so why not?

The way that people are fans of my music I’m happy because I was a fan and am still a fan.

Your activism, your music and many of your actions speak for the oppressed and tend to be big statements calling out to people to open their eyes. Whether intended or not it is creating a legacy. How would you like to be remembered when you leave this world and what would you like written above your final resting place?

Wow man, that’s a heavy question. I guess I’d like people to recognise the fact that I put my name to all these things where some of my peers would be too afraid or confined by their contractual commitments to speak out.

Talib it’s been a real pleasure hanging out with you. Thank you for coming on TBUR.

Thank you and your fans. I really like your style man, it’s very thorough. Peace and love.

To stay up to date with Talib Kweli, you can check out his website, Kweliclub as well as Facebook and Twitter. You can also support new artists that he is working with on his record label, Javotti Media.

Olivia Musique – “All I was wearing were a pair of knickers and some angel wings”

On 7th August 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

There are some people who are born to do something and they feel it in the pit of their stomachs. Olivia is a model. Since she was 13 it was all that she wanted to do and she’s really good at it. She has an outstanding portfolio and a very fresh face. Her recent move to London from Manchester (sadly not the red half) is taking her one step closer to her dream and I think that she is definitely one to watch. TBUR welcomes this delightful young lady and hopefully by the end of the interview she can be converted to the Stretford end. Please welcome Olivia Musique.

Hi Olivia, welcome to TBUR. Please introduce yourself to my lovely readers.

Hi, thank you for taking the time to read this! I’ve been working as a model within the industry for around a year and a half. Modelling is the only thing I’ve really ever been passionate about and the only thing I’ve been 100% sure that I wanted to do. Whenever anyone ever questioned if there was anything else, there never was. This made me realise that I had to give this my all to make sure that I didn’t go through life wondering if I would or wouldn’t have made it. I believe that you get out of life what you put in, it’s been given to us to create something beautiful out of so why not.

Can you remember the exact moment you fell in love with the modelling industry?

Yes! My mum and I went for a mother and daughter photo shoot when I was 13. From that point I knew it was something I was really interested in. It was very odd for me because I’d never been so excited about anything before and the rush of passion that I had whilst standing in front of the camera was unlike anything I was used to. When I was a child I always loved being the subject of the family photos but this was a completely different experience and I just loved it.

But the most important thing I would tell her would be to ALWAYS ALWAYS believe in herself. If you don’t, then you have nothing and you may as well give up. Giving up gets you nowhere.

Sounds like a supermodel superhero moment. How are you finding the industry compared to what you thought it’d be like?

Honestly, at first I thought it would be a lot easier than it is. At first I thought that it would be long hours but a glamorous life. I soon found that this was not always the case on the job, this didn’t put me off though. It made me want it even more! The least glamorous shoot I’d ever done was in a forest, in the middle of nowhere, just after it snowed in January. All I was wearing were a pair of knickers and some angel wings. I’d never been so cold in my life but the results were amazing and I was so pleased that I did it.

That’s pretty damn cold! On your site, I noticed a section that mentioned you wouldn’t do topless or nude, have you had any uncomfortable experiences that prompted you to state that so explicitly?

I can still feel it in my bones! I feel like there is a lot of pressure on girls at the moment to do nude and I don’t think it’s right. I believe that everyone should have the right to state their own limits and this should not be questioned. I do have a lot of people asking what my price would be for nude, even when I say specifically that my limits only go up to implied. I don’t think women’s limits are respected by people these days, people think everyone has a price. Women or girls that are struggling may be easily persuaded if they think getting their boobs out will help get them more money or more work even if they don’t feel comfortable with it. I chose specifically not to do it because I wouldn’t feel 100% comfortable and that’s not the kind of image I want to give out. Don’t get me wrong, if a model is comfortable with topless or nude then that’s fantastic for them – it’s just not something that I personally choose to do.

Good for you for sticking to your guns. You recently moved to London from Manchester to further your career. Was that always on the cards and how has it been?

It wasn’t on the cards at all. I’d considered it but I never thought I’d actually go through with it, until I quit my job in Manchester. At that point I thought about the fact that I didn’t really have much to stay there for and made the change! It’s been really stressful if I’m honest. The money side of things has been a struggle as I’ve not really had much work coming in until very recently. The hardest part about the move has been leaving my mum, she’s my best friend and I miss her so much but we FaceTime twice a day so that makes it slightly easier. I love London and I want to stay here for the foreseeable future – so I intend to work my bum off to make sure that’s the case.

I hope you get the break as I think your portfolio is terrific. In the past, models I have spoken with have commented about being put in a situation, suggesting that sexual favours would help them progress in the industry. Have you encountered any such propositions?

I have had a lot of people ask me for escorting services, although no one has ever suggested anything to me whilst I’ve been on a shoot. I’m normally really careful about who I pick to shoot with, so I’ll look at all of their work and their references before deciding whether to work with them or not. I may just have been lucky so far..

I believe that you get out of life what you put in, it’s been given to us to create something beautiful out of so why not.

Hopefully it stays that way, what kind of modelling would you most like to succeed in and why?

I love lingerie modelling and I think I pull it off quite well for the time being so I’d have to say that. I feel that sometimes, even when I am only wearing undies I feel fully dressed. I think anyone can agree that wearing the right underwear can make you feel so good about yourself even if nobody else can see it (or in my case even if they can).

You’d be an awesome Victoria Secrets model. I’m sure with the amount of castings you go to you find yourself having the same conversations over and over again or being asked the same questions by receptionists making small talk, what are the most annoying things you get continuously asked?

Haha I would LOVE to be a VS model but I think I’m too short for that! Yes, it can get very repetitive but it’s all part of the experience I suppose. I don’t think I have an annoying question but the thing I hear a lot that can be quite annoying is that I look taller than I actually am. It’s true, but the majority of agencies want people who ARE 5ft 8 and don’t just look it. Apart from that my conversations normally vary quite a lot, I’m a very talkative person so sometimes end up in very in-depth conversations with people I’m around.

You do look taller than you are wink!! What are you currently working on?

At the moment I’m working on a few different shoots with independent photographers but I am also doing the catwalk at the Sexhibition event in Manchester at Event City. It’s all very exciting and I can’t wait for the event especially!

I don’t think most people can wait to see the pics, enjoy it. Now I have a bone to pick with you, were you a man city fan before the oil money?

Haha to be honest I’m not really a huge football fan, I only really follow it because of my family. But they’ve been city through generations. I get really stressed watching football, get slightly too in to it so I tend to avoid it. BLUE MOON!!!!

GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED!! I won’t hold it against you, suppose nobody’s perfect. What advice or tips would you give to the 13 year old Olivia from 20 year old Olivia?

Haha whateverrrrrrr!! Oh God, there are soooooo many tips I would give her. Firstly, I’d have told her not to give up because I had a break. I’d then tell her to make sure she fully looked into agencies before going for test shoots etc to make sure they are ACTUAL agencies and not just out to get your money. But the most important thing I would tell her would be to ALWAYS ALWAYS believe in herself. If you don’t, then you have nothing and you may as well give up. Giving up gets you nowhere.

All I was wearing were a pair of knickers and some angel wings. I’d never been so cold in my life but the results were amazing and I was so pleased that I did it.

If I was 13 year old Olivia I’d definitely listen! What are the warning signs of so-called agencies that are just after your money?

I’ve found that one of the most important things to do firstly is check the reviews of the “agency” online, if it’s a scam then there will be some kind of review about it somewhere. Also, make sure you get a response from the number that they have posted on the website. If you try a number of times and can’t get through or never get a response from the exact email address they have listed then it’s probably dodgy (especially if it’s a 3rd party that are inviting you for a test shoot). Also, ask around. Other aspiring models will probably have heard something or had an experience with them.

There you have it. What can we expect to see from you in Sexhibition?

So, I will be on the catwalk on Saturday 22nd August. I will be modelling for Black Sheep Latex, Catorina Stewart Clothing and Feverish Imaging. More companies may be added but for the time being that is the list. I’m so excited! They are all so talented and I can’t wait to show off some of the lush garments that they have to offer. Should be an exciting two days!

Get your tickets and check out some mind blowing talent. Olivia thank you so much for taking the time to come on TBUR. Apart from derby day you have my best wishes.

You are most welcome, thank you so much for having me!!

If you’re looking to see more of or book Olivia for modeling work, head to her Website. You can also keep up with her on, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. She has a bit of a trigger finger and a great response time.

Marco Pierre White Jr – “Someone telling me I couldn’t have something until I was 18 made the idea even more enticing”

On 3rd August 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / 1 Comment

My guest today is a young man who is making his way in the world of modelling. Situated between L.A and London, his is a life that moves at quite a pace. His instagram profile has amassed over 38500 followers. He is fast becoming famous for his tattoos as well as his good looks. There’s no getting away from how much he looks like a younger version of his celebrity chef father and I am curious to find out more about this young man and his body art. Ladies and gentlemen I bring you Marco Pierre White Jr.

Hello Marco and welcome to TBUR, for those who are unaware of who you are please give a brief introduction.

First of all I’d like to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to present myself to those who know me and to those who don’t know me. My name is Marco Pierre White junior, son of the well-known celebrity chef Marco Pierre White. I am 20 years old and describe myself as a very creative individual, I love art and photography, I have spent several years modelling in different places, London, Los Angeles, and New York. My image reflects my individuality and eccentric artistic background, I sport many tattoos all telling a little about my life, my values and my aspirations, my body is my life story. I love painting and I express my life and feelings through my signature “bleeding heart” for those who haven’t seen it, you will be soon as my brand is soon to kick off with my partner Ollie Twist. I truly enjoy modelling and all the challenges I face as modelling is a demanding profession where you have to be able to personify the image they ask you to personify, it’s a bit like acting, and it is also a form of art. For these very reasons I enjoy modelling, it appeals to me as a person in every respect.

Thanks Marco. What inspired the name, Bleeding Heart?

There is a really deep meaning in the “bleeding heart symbol” it represents my childhood, it is a way to express my pain and memories. The colours are an expression of my colourless childhood, the dribbles of ink represent the blood in the bleeding heart as I say “you cannot break what has already been broken ” therefore the heart is bleeding. It simply cannot heal itself while I hide behind the tears of a clown. I do not regret my childhood even though I would have wished for a better one because it made me the person I am today.

However there has always been a presence of the press and media around our family, but of course as a young man I always enjoyed the red carpet events around the world. I know now that this isn’t a normal upbringing for most people, but it’s been my normal.

Do you think the pain in your signature manifests itself in your artwork both on the canvas and your body and if so how?

Yes, it does, emotional pain needs to be exteriorised in order to be seen by others, on canvas as a form of static art and on my body as a reminder of what I feel, that way I am forced to deal with those emotions and pains that eventually leads to a feeling of melancholic numbness. This numbness is the greatest killer of all, as for someone my age, I should not need to numb my emotions or pains. I should cherish emotions and not suppress them for fear of more pain. Everyday I am reminded of my emotions and pains by the mere sight of my many tattoos and everyday I grow number to the pain they represent and the story they tell. The fact that the process of tattooing itself can be rather painful is almost like blood letting, it’s therapeutic to me as a person.

It’s an understatement to call you an expressive personality, have you always found it easy to wear your heart on your sleeve?

There was a time when I wore my heart on my sleeve, but in the world we live in today it’s hard to get somewhere, or be someone, with letting people in. I’ve learnt that the less people you let in, the fewer chances you have of being let down. After a past of being let down by those closest to me, including family, it’s easier for me to keep people at arms length and not let anyone get close enough to hurt me again.

Would you say you have low expectations of people as a result?

No, I don’t have low expectations of people, but by not letting people get close to me I also don’t give them an opportunity to prove otherwise.

My image reflects my individuality and eccentric artistic background, I sport many tattoos all telling a little about my life, my values and my aspirations, my body is my life story.

As mentioned earlier you do modelling, how did that start?

Growing up I was always around cameras so have naturally felt comfortable in front of them. Because of that I started doing shoots for friends who were doing photography courses. Then by chance I was found and scouted by my current managers that I still use to this day.

Your Instagram profile demonstrates how comfortable you are in front of the camera. With over 38000 followers you’re proving quite popular. What do you think draws so many people to your profile?

I think that carrying my family’s name definitely helped me to gain traction in the beginning, but now, as I’m starting to carve a name for myself people from around the world are following me without knowing who my family is.

There’s no denying that the family name opens doors. How do you find it serves you in the professional modelling world?

In the professional modelling world, a good name can help you get a place with an agency, but after that it’s all up to the model to be able to get bookings and become well known.

It’s difficult for me to relax often, because it’s hard for anyone to relax when they have a lot on their plate. The only time you’ll see me slip or trip is when I’m spending time with my little sister, who means the world to me and I’d never want her to see that guarded side of me.

I find your work very interesting. Do you have a hand in directing your shoots?

Yes, I definitely do have a hand in directing my shoots. I’m very particular with the looks that I like, and want to be portrayed in a way that highlights me as a person. I like to produce something at the end of a shoot that no one else could do, and makes people look twice.

Your tattoos really stand out in the shots. In the past, mainstream models rarely showed any body ink but now it’s more visible. What do you think has caused this change in the modelling world?

I think that tattoos are becoming more and more socially acceptable in our day and age, they are even appreciated by the artistic world. Photographers therefore can put tattooed models in their work and be praised for it, rather than being chastised for it.

Which is a good thing, how many tattoos do you have and what started the love affair with body art?

To be honest Munir, I no longer count. They’ve all merged into one piece for me at this point. I’ve never been good at waiting for things, so someone telling me I couldn’t have something until I was 18 made the idea even more enticing. Not only that, but knowing that I could put my own art onto myself made me want them even more.

Wisdom is something that comes with age, and even though I’ve always been pretty sharp I know I definitely have more mistakes to make and more lessons to learn.

Some people have a significant masterpiece they are waiting to put on their body, have you got yours yet if so (and if not) what is it?

I do have a significant masterpiece that I’ve been working on, which is a full back piece based on a ‘Twisted Disney’ but I don’t want to say much about the piece because I want to keep it a surprise for my followers.

Sounds really cool, can’t wait to see it. What was life like growing up as the son of a famous chef?

I wasn’t fazed by it growing up, obviously it meant that some people treated me differently than if my father had a career that wasn’t in the spotlight. However there has always been a presence of the press and media around our family, but of course as a young man I always enjoyed the red carpet events around the world. I know now that this isn’t a normal upbringing for most people, but it’s been my normal.

Very true. When you’ve eaten food prepared by Marco Pierre White, is everything else a downgrade? Also does he make a good fry up?

Not at all. I enjoy simple things in life like my grandma’s cooking, it’s not michelin starred, fancy, or posh, just made with love. I’ve been to some of the best restaurants around the world and had some terrible meals, because anyone can open up a restaurant, make it fancy and put a big price tag, but it’s difficult to create something that people genuinely enjoy eating. I think his fry ups are without question.

What does the future hold for you in terms of your art and the modelling?

In the next year I will hopefully be opening up my own gallery on Berwick Street in Soho, where I will be displaying my own canvases and sculptures. As for my modelling I’m not exactly Mr. Clean Cut, so it’s more what the industry wants from me than what I want from it, but it is still something that I want to explore further.

Watch this space. What would you like to call your art gallery?

I’d love to be able to share, but as it’s still in the beginning stages I want to keep it a secret, but the name will be revealed over my Instagram account in the coming months.

You have a very wise head on your shoulders. Have you always been that way?

Wisdom is something that comes with age, and even though I’ve always been pretty sharp I know I definitely have more mistakes to make and more lessons to learn. Growing up in the environment that I did, you wouldn’t last long if you didn’t keep your eye on the ball. This is a lesson I hope to carry with me throughout my life.

I like to produce something at the end of a shoot that no one else could do, and makes people look twice.

You obviously do have to have your guard up, when it’s down, how do you like to relax?

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I do want to let my guard down but can’t because of the reputation I have. It’s difficult for me to relax often, because it’s hard for anyone to relax when they have a lot on their plate. The only time you’ll see me slip or trip is when I’m spending time with my little sister, who means the world to me and I’d never want her to see that guarded side of me.

I understand fully why you can’t let your guard down. When you mention reputation, what are you referring to?

no comment

No worries. Marco, I’ve enjoyed hanging out with you and wish you the very best of luck in your endeavours. Any final words for my readers?

Thank you for taking the time to interview me. I wish you the best and there will be an invite to the gallery with your name on it. To all the readers, I hope you enjoyed reading this interview and getting to know me better. All the best.

MPW

To get a first glimpse of Marco’s tattoo, keep up with his modelling work and see some of his art head over to his Instagram.

Markus Roberts-Clarke – We were the first gay couple on a reality dating show

On 19th June 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

Today I welcome a very flamboyant face. You will have seen his face on the screens of Big Brother since 2007. He has a bit of a cult following as a charismatic member of the audience. He is also a model who is very passionate about what he does and very ethical about the way he operates. Markus has modelled in London Fashion Week, Pakistan Fashion Week and if you think you know him from somewhere the chances are that you probably do. He makes Twitter trolls look stupid. His networking abilities are superb and he is very quickly building up a portfolio of models to take over the fashion industry with. He was recommended to me by my talent agent and after speaking to him I’m happy to bring him to the TBUR stage. He is funny, he works bloody hard and for a short period I have him all to myself to share with you guys.

Hey Markus, please introduce yourself to my lovely readers.

Well what an introduction…. What else can I say… Hello all I’m Markus Roberts-Clarke… I’m soon to be 30 in July…. And I literally live eat and breath anything modeling and fashion.. I studied musical Theatre and received a triple distinction so I try my hand at anything and everything. I like to bring pride, passion and personality to any job I’m booked for… Or at any casting to be honest.

What is it about modelling that gets your juices flowing?

Absolutely everything. From the first initial casting, the nerves, meeting the good the bad and ugly models (What I mean by that is the personalities) to the hair and make up. My hair and make-up always seem to go wackier. I enjoy the backstage shenanigans. I also get a rush from seeing what I’m wearing to then strutting my thang on the catwalk and hearing the response that me and my outfit get. Also from the photoshoots side I love the final aspect to it. I love seeing what they do with a blank canvas to create something epic… And to see how good I look with lighting… Hair and make up etc. But the runway is what gets my pulse racing!

Haha, I rocked it and owned that bad boy. Pain is beauty as they say.

Speaking of hair, that was the first thing I noticed about you! How did the style come about?

Yeah it’s definitely my signature piece and talking point. It’s weird I was going through a divorce and decided to flee the country. I worked as a counselor in NY for Camp America and fancied a change, so shaved the sides and left my bouffant on top. When I was back in England I was approached by a hairstylist called Misty who was entering a competition to be the face of American hair crew. She decided to add the blonde, we came 4th out of 450 applications and the rest is history 🙂

So much history. What other work have you done that makes you proud?

To be honest my biggest and proudest moment was packing up and leaving when my head was in a spin and moving to America. I remember the initiation and she said “this will be the most challenging and mentally draining rewarding job you will ever do” I was like yeah right. OMG it was life changing… Literally. I appreciated everything so much more, from having running water, clothes and just breathing in general. I was a carer and counselor at a special needs camp and an underprivileged camp. It was full on. 7am till 11pm everyday, cleaning, catering, nappy changing, puke wiping and entertaining. It felt so rewarding when I came back home.

It goes to explain why you are considerate towards your fellow models. You have a few models that you work closely with and recommend for jobs. How did this all start and what’s the main purpose it serves?

Ah Thank you. Simple. They have the same drive goals and ambitions as I do. All I want to do is simply say I’m proud of my achievements and mean it. We all need that one break, that someone to recognise us. These are models I’ve met and worked with along the way and it’s good if you have a friend booked on same job as you for moral support. I love giving back. I get a lot of satisfaction from helping others.

Don’t be rude. Don’t be a diva (unless you’re a fun one).

That’s very noble of you. Your face is synonymous with Big Brother. How did you get involved with that and what’s it like?

Yes I just saw it on StarNow back in the big brothers big mouth days. I applied to go on and was an instant hit with viewers, producers and the audience researcher team due to my opinions and flare. I’m not everyone’s cup of tea. But I was invited back every week and was even asked to present a segment when Pete Burns presented show back in 2008. It’s a great platform. And now I have the pleasure of designers sending me clothes to wear on the show weekly as long as I promote them on my fashion blog on Instagram. I currently have 4 weeks outfit planned from 4 designers. A designer wants me to wear a hair head piece for the FINAL in August. It’s all very exciting.

That is awesome! I saw your last see through number. You must have been freezing! Have you ever been asked to wear something that was horrendous?

Haha, I rocked it and owned that bad boy. Pain is beauty as they say. The cold didn’t affect me too much. I only had a pot of super noodles all day so I could fit into it and that was a medium I would have hated to see a small. To be honest I’ve been soooooo lucky, I always get the crazy, outrageous and wacky outfits and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If the clothes are plain and boring then I’m upset lol. I remember once for Kaoska fashion we had to wear really plain t-shirts but got to walk down the catwalk with a mountain bike. So I chose the leopard print bike so I could stand out more.

But the runway is what gets my pulse racing!

Haha!! What is the long term goal for you with modelling?

Simple….. International!!! To be recognized as a cool funky alternative model with an edge 🙂

Oh you definitely have an edge (in a good way). Where does an aspiring models journey begin?

As cliche as it sounds it starts from the bottom and you work your way to the top. Don’t believe your hype. Don’t be rude. Don’t be a diva (unless you’re a fun one). From the minute you wake up to the minute you close your eyes at night you want to make sure you’ve done everything you possibly could to further your career/brand.

Definitely agree that humility is a must. I admire the way you handled a troll on Twitter recently. How bad can it get for you?

Blimey. Well, I’m a glutton for punishment. I appear in reality TV (Towie, Made in Chelsea, First dates) so what do I expect? I remember one night I got back from filming Big Brother and read all the tweets written about me and it was a mixed bag. Majority were lovely but the bad ones (Freak, What is that? Jeremy Kyle audience member, Disgusting, Bad teeth, Crayola eyebrows, Ugly) to name a few stood out. I received a tweet from a lady that said “there are 4.8 billion people in the world why are u letting one person and 140 characters ruin your day?” From that moment on I read tweets with a completely different and stronger outlook.

I literally live eat and breath anything modeling and fashion..

Yeah trolls are not worth losing sleep over. You were on first dates?! Spill the beans!

Well it was an amazing experience. We were the first gay couple on a reality dating show. And what a couple we were. He was a Kayne West look-a-like. It was kind of a blind date. We were only shown each others pictures before date and told we both had a secret each. Mine was that I was married but currently going through a divorce. His was that, I was his first date since being diagnosed with HIV which was very brave of him to reveal on national TV. I definitely learned a lot more about the illness and so did the viewers. It’s definitely a taboo subject but first dates made it relevant. The date went amazing, just no sexual chemistry. The response after the show aired was phenomenal. We were trending on Twitter and HIV/Aids awareness groups were inundated. Public reaction was soooo good. Everyone said I handled the news well and came across as endearing. I still get recognised now from that show 2 years on (Series 1 Episode 3 for anyone who wants to watch it)

LIVE THE Dream and chase the shooting star

Once again a great reflection of the pleasant character you are. I have no idea how you fit so much work in. I’ve seen how often you are strutting, posing and pouting, what’s next?

I do seem to have a lot of fingers in a lot of pies. I always find it hard to say no. You don’t know who’s going to be there. Over the next couple of weeks, I’m filming a Carlsberg advert with some legendary football stars, Flying to Helsinki for a fashion event, doing a charity catwalk to raise funds to help my friend fly out to help children in Africa, Urban Fashion Week, Zimbabwe Fashion Week, An interview to raise awareness for Gay Drug Rape and drug issues, Volunteering at Pride of London, launching an event for NU:SKIN which I’m now an ambassador for and hopefully squeeze in some sleep in between.

Lots of pies man. I’ve really enjoyed having you on here and will most definitely be tuning in to see you in that headpiece. Before you head off to your next assignment, do you have any final words for my readers?

Just simply LIVE THE Dream and chase the shooting star x

To stay in touch with Markus, check out some of his badass selfies and keep an eye on his big brother antics follow him on Instagram and Twitter. He’s got tons of exciting stuff on there and some crazy outfits!

Instagram: @markusmodel

Twitter: @markusMRC85

Kenneth Wright – I had 21 rejection letters pinned against my wall. I took them down the day I landed my first big role

On 15th June 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

Years ago I worked as a Bank Manager. This young man came in who was very well mannered. As I got talking to him I soon found out that he was an actor. We got on very well and stayed in touch. He told me a story about his career that stuck with me. He kept every rejection letter that he received from drama schools, which he had auditioned for, pinned on his back door, using them as a motivator, as he tried to break into the acting world. When he then was accepted to Drama Studio London, he finally took those letters down. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome hot, Scandinavian actor, Mr. Kenneth Wright.

Pleasure to have you on TBUR Kenneth. It’s been a while and you have come a long way since we last saw each other. What have you been up to?

Thank you so much for having me on TBUR Munir. Since I saw you last time I have been up to a lot, but I will start with what I am doing right now. Currently I am working with the Director called Kamilla Wargo Brekling. We are developing material, through Kamilla´s unique approach. This whole process has boosted my will to produce and co-write a new play that will be a monologue based around my life thus far. It will be a show that I will tour with, both in Denmark and the UK, I don’t want the UK to miss out. Within the last 6 months I have also been to the US, where I am set to hone my craft and have been working with top acting coaches Eric Morris and Judith Weston. Working with these people is an important step on the path towards working in TV and films in America. I will also be there for 2 months during pilot season 2016. Right now I am involved in two films called, ‘Lost Angeles’ which is a zombie short, set to shoot July and a feature film called ‘Black Angel’. However, my schedule is a little crazy, so I hope I am available for everything, as I am quite booked during that period. ‘Black Angel’ is set to start shooting September/October of 2015. I will also be heading for Iceland in August where I am working with Annabel Arden and Complicité (World renowned Award winning theatre company) which I am very much looking forward to.

I don’t like other people telling me, what I can and cannot do. In my world anything is possible.

Busy man! Let’s start with the movies you’ve been involved in. How did those opportunities come?

‘Black Angel’ came about with the producer Harald Reichebner, contacting me. Rutger Hauer from ‘Total Recall’ will be a part of this fantastic project. ‘Lost Angeles’ happened through my network, where I know the scriptwriter Karim. He asked me for my opinion and feedback about the script and the ball started rolling. I am also doing a casting for the new season of Vikings on HBO. Very exciting. A lot of this business is through personal contacts; someone you have worked with 4-5-10 years ago suddenly needs you for something. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Couldn’t agree more, without good first impressions this interview wouldn’t be taking place. What was it like to go from aspiring actor, fresh out of Drama school to working professional working with some fantastic names?

It was everything I envisioned and more. Some of the most successful people are the most generous ones. I have had good advice from people I admire whom I met along the way. You need stamina, a constant drive and perseverance because you will meet resistance and you will need some pretty thick skin for critics and periods where you don’t have any work. You will undoubtedly meet people that don’t like you or your work. I tend not to give it focus, because if I did, I would not be able to function as an actor or for that matter a human being.

It’s a great attitude to have in the creative industry, as it’s impossible to please everybody. You’ve worked with some established Hollywood actors, What was that like?

Well we are all in the same boat to speak metaphorically. We share a common bond and camaraderie as everyone knows, that like me they to had to start from the bottom and work their way up. It’s like a business. You need a good team around you. You start out small and in the end, you are hopefully at the top. It’s a climb to get there. You learn from more experienced actors, that your lucky streak and work can quickly change. Of course, it’s about the talent, the profile, but it is indeed about supply and demand, as well as good portion of luck. However, the journey is over half the experience and I am enjoying my journey thus far. I am in no rush, but please do not ever assume that I am lacking drive, I have just learned that things happen when the time is right. I am not a man, who takes ‘no’ for an answer. Being turned down 5 years in a row only increased my drive to succeed and my appetite for the craft, as this is what I was meant to be doing all along. I don’t like other people telling me, what I can and cannot do. In my world anything is possible. Being rejected so many times, only fueled the fire inside me, to continue pursuing, what I knew inevitably was bound to happen. Some years I was so close but no cigar. I am smoking the cigar now. 21 letters of rejection addressed to Mr. Wright plastered on the back of my front door. Looking at them everyday, was a constant reminder of not accepting ‘no’ for an answer. That’s drive in my world.

Your humility is very refreshing. Who have your mentors been and what kind of an effect have they had on you?

Thank You Munir. Recently Eric Morris. I met Eric Morris in LA this past February. He is 83 and an acting coach/mentor to me as well as a lot of other very established actors. One of these being The Terminator, aka Arnold Schwarzenegger. “The American way” of acting is a different approach, compared to the continental European style or British way of doing it. The American way is a lot more complex, methodical and detailed than people give it credit for. My opinion is the American way, has a very positive pragmatic way of tackling a challenging subject. It taught me a lot. Eric lit a huge fire inside me. He got me out of my comfort zone and into uncharted territory, improving my skills and helping me grow as an actor. Eric believes the actor has to be cleansed from personal, unnecessary emotional clutter and baggage, in order to be fully available for the character you are portraying, as well as the storyline. That is one of the gifts in acting. You never stop learning and discovering new sides to life, yourself, and everyone around you. I am looking to establish a working relationship with a more seasoned actor, that can act as my mentor. Within the acting community, there is a strong mentor scheme. Tom cruise is Jeremy Renner´s mentor and has been for over 10 years.

In the end I leant over and said: ‘’007 nice to meet you’’ as an icebreaker. He laughs and then tells me; he thought I looked like Pierce.

Amazing, what goals have you set for yourself in 2015 and beyond?

My main goal every year is to be happy and create a happy environment around me. I think it creates opportunities for my career, because I need to be in balance and there through work from a positive and open place when I am on either the stage or working on a film. If you approach your work with a completely open mind and relaxed body, you are more open to impulse ideas and most importantly you don’t bring your own baggage into the rehearsal or performance space, which pollutes the character. I am not saying that it is not possible to relate to the character’s journey or emotional state of being on lets say personal level, as you might have gone through or experienced the same emotions, but save the real drama & traumas for the stage. After working with an amazing director recently, I got the idea about my one- man show, which I will spend a lot of time on in 2015 – well as much as my schedule allows. Artistically I want to establish my self more in Copenhagen and in the US, but still continuing working in the UK and mainland Europe. To assist my breakthrough in the US, I am going to LA for two months in 2016 during pilot season and the Oscars. Hollywood is the Olympics of acting.

It definitely is! I know you once met Vincent Cassel. What was that like?

It was really cool meeting Vincent. He is one of my favorite actors, mostly because he is as cool off screen, as he is on screen. He has time for everyone. I like this about him very much. At the time Vincent was working for Hugo Boss which I coincidently also was in London. I saw him and went straight over, said, “Hi Vincent” and we just hit it off. He was quite sure we had met before, which I take as a good sign. During our conversation I got a lot of insight into the man and his career, as well as some valuable tips and pointers along the way, I still use these today. Vincent also told me that I reminded him of James Bond, specifically Pierce Brosnan, I get that a lot.

Have you ever played along with it for fun?

Yes of course, recently on a flight to Israel. Already at the check in counter where this guy (really friendly fellow who BTW was going to the same wedding as I) was eye balling me all the time, I smiled as I do when someone eyeballs. Coincidentally I am sat near this guy on the plane, and he keeps turning around, staring at me. In the end I leant over and said: ‘’007 nice to meet you’’ as an icebreaker. He laughs and then tells me; he thought I looked like Pierce.

You need stamina, a constant drive and perseverance because you will meet resistance and you will need some pretty thick skin for critics and periods where you don’t have any work.

Maybe could be a long, lost relative. Who knows?

Some people think I am his son Sean Brosnan, which is funny. Pierce, coincidentally also worked in the same place I was working weekends during drama school. My nickname there was 007, as everyone thought I looked like Pierce. I am used to it. To be compared with someone like that is great, even though we are totally different individuals. I take it as a compliment. I think Pierce is a very good actor and he is more versatile than he gets credit for. As an example his roles in Mrs Doubtfire and Mamma Mia – he is hilarious.

Good point. Getting back to something you mentioned earlier about Oscar Season, you strike me as an actor who is very much about the craft. What do you think of award ceremonies as validation of an actors work?

Thanks Munir I am very much about the craft. I think award ceremonies are great as actors get a chance to get together. Some of the best acceptance speeches, have been given by another favorite of mine, Jim Carrey, he is awesome. He is, as Pierce, also more versatile, than people think – for example, his role in ‘Eternal Sunshine on a Spotless mind’. However the most important validation for me comes from the audience. If I’ve struck a chord in them, I am succeeding. In regards to actual awards I won an award at Drama School, the DADA talent award. This meant a whole lot to me, as it was a validation of my talent and perseverance. The award came with a very generous lump sum, which paid for a lot of my education. I am incredibly grateful for this still. Without the award, we would probably not be having this conversation now. Even with the award, I still had to work hard though. With such an award, comes a lot of responsibility and expectations from within and my fellow peers. Being a student at a top drama school and living in London in general is very expensive. Plus, I like being busy. I work best when I have a lot to do. I was also shortlisted for the T&S Elliot exchange program, through the Bristol Old Vic under Kevin Spacey. It did not however work out, due to commitments in my final year shows at Drama Studio London. I had two good graduating production shows with two great parts. Firstly, I was playing John in “My Night With Reg” by Kevin Elyot. This was a play about five gay friends in London, in the mid 80´s, which are living through the HIV/AIDS outbreak. Secondly, playing Matheus Altman in the play “The Practical Significance Of G. It is a play about a German Jew, fleeing from Nazi Germany to England, only to be placed in an interment camp in England. Unfortunately, I was not able to do everything… However, I believe everything happens for a reason.

I had 21 rejection letters pinned against my wall. I took them down the day I landed my first big role

What kind of audience reactions have you had to some of your performances? I know theatre audiences do occasionally get to mingle with the actors.

I specifically remember once after I finished a show, there was this lady hanging about in a bar with her friends. I could sense there was something about her. She was sending out this vibe and the moment I stepped into the room, as ‘myself’ off stage and all, I wanted to find out what this vibe was. I think as an actor I don’t judge character and on top of that I watch people, I try to pick up on moods and behaviors all the time. I believe, acting is a combination of reacting and reliving feelings, emotions and behaviors under imaginary circumstances. Be that either in front of a camera, or an audience. People and emotions change constantly, so it is very illusive but that is what constantly fascinates me about doing the work I do. In regards to the lady I wanted to find out why she seemed distant, so I engaged the group and got no eye contact or response from her at all. She seems so lost and distant. I had to ask what was wrong and she said this straight to my face “I have been date raped”. The character I portrayed in this particular play date raped a girl in one scene. She had a hard time differentiating between me the character and the man who did this to her.

That’s heavy man and an extraordinary validation of how convincing you are as an actor. I could talk to you all day but I know you’re due back on set, till the next time and thanks for coming on here.

Thank you for having me. A big thank you to all your readers also. Take care of yourself.

You can get up to date info on Kenneth Wright by checking out the links below. He will be coming to a screen very near you soon.

Website: www.kennethwrights.com

Spotlight: Kenneth Wright

Indiegogo: BLACK ANGEL – a fantasy feature film

All photo credits: www.mathildeschmidt.dk

Victoria Kember – The fact that I’ve got a poon really shouldn’t come into it. Stick a cock on me and I’m still telling the same jokes

On 12th June 2015 / Featured Indie Interviews, Indie Interviews / Leave a comment

I filmed a dating show with Victoria last year. She was a co-presenter and she did an awesome job. From the moment that I met her I was gripped. She is one of the funniest people I have ever met and she has an opinion on men who eat their steak rare that deserves to be shared! I’ve seen her perform a few times and I am so happy to finally have the opportunity to tell her story. She runs one of London’s best comedy nights called, Hooray Cabaret and is about to go to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Victoria Kember is in the house!

So excited to have you here today Victoria. A warm welcome to you. Please introduce yourself to my audience.

I am Victoria Kember aka Ferella Moon Cup. I am on the Comedy/ Cabaret circuit. I run a cabaret night called Hooray Cabaret a show bringing comedy, burlesque and music to get into one big riot. I host cabaret, perform burlesque and stand up. I run an events company called Vv Events. Basically if you need a small dog to jump out of a hot air balloon whilst singing then I’m your girl!

I’ve got out of the getting naked in bars stage, I’m a grown up now (I am lying).

So much variety, might hold you to the dog comment one day. So, how did you get started in comedy?

Well I was the fat funny kid at school. I was always cast as the funny part in the school plays. I was a very naughty child, the only thing that really stood out to me was drama. I went on to study performing arts at Uni and came out with a solo comedy show that moved on to stand up. I have always loved being on stage and creating theatre and stand up comedy is a great platform to get your work seen.

As a female comedian do you think your sex works in your favour or against?

I think you are either funny or your not! The fact that I’ve got a poon really shouldn’t come into it. Stick a cock on me and I’m still telling the same jokes.

don’t take life too seriously, have fun, dance naked and be free. You are only around once!

Well said and that poon has taken you places. Next stop Edinburgh with Hooray Cabaret. How was Hooray Cabaret born?

So I was working as a waitress in a cocktail bar….. no I was working as a hostess in a normal bar and they asked me to put on a comedy night and it was a great success. I did it monthly for a year or so, the night was called, Comedy at Studio 58, then I started the Queen of Arts (which is now hooray). It was like the sillier, more kooky version of Studio 58.

I have always loved comedy. I worked at 99 club for two years spying on acts (oh hang on that sounds creepy) and the burlesque is so much fun, such a wonderful art form! These women sometimes men are so creative. I have started classes, my burlesque name is Farella Moon Cup and she loves raw meat. Oh hang on where was I? Oh yes Hooray. Basically I wanted to bring comedy, burlesque and music together. They compliment one another so well. Hooray is an experience like having Christmas day at an eccentric aunts house that likes showing her boobs!

Haha I don’t know what to make of having my eccentric aunties boobs on show. Is the name Farella Moon Cup a reference to your boobs or am I just being a man?

No this is what a moon cup is www.mooncup.co.uk

You have to be quick with a heckler. As a host you need to put them in their place ready for the next act to come on. Some audiences think heckling is good but I will let you into a secret its really fucking annoying!

Haha I didn’t expect that. You are hilarious, whilst we’re on the subject of the nether regions, we’ve established that you have one and you’re taking it with you to Edinburgh. Excited?

I am excited. Edinburgh should be scared. I’ve got out of the getting naked in bars stage, I’m a grown up now (I am lying). Hooray is really excited to be going up to Edinburgh. It’s going to be intense and there is a small chance I might kill Verity with her own feather bower (Verity is the Hooray Cabaret partner). We are still looking for acts to so if you are keen to get involved contact the Hooray Cabaret Facebook page!

We really just want the Hooray Cabaret brand to grow and grow and by going to Edinburgh we get a chance to meet new acts, perform to audience we wouldn’t usually perform to and have fun of course!

I can’t wait to see the footage full of outrageous stuff. Speaking of which, I saw a video of you telling your famous steak theory. Please share it with my readers.

You can tell a lot about a man by how he has his steak cooked because if he has it rare it means he will have sex with you on your period!

I am such a delightful young lady!

You really are, Mooncup. What was the reaction you got the very first time you performed that piece?

I like to make my audience squirm! I like to shock an audience. For my final show at Uni I ate dog food on stage. I think a couple of people walked out!

My parents must have been so proud!

Please send in a video of that performance if you have it! Every comic I know gets asked to tell a joke as soon as they tell people what they do for a living. What’s your reaction when you get asked that?

I just play dead until they walk away. Can you tell me a joke?

Look in the mirror…… How do you deal with heckling?

When I’m on stage my mind takes over. You have to be quick with a heckler. As a host you need to put them in their place ready for the next act to come on. Some audiences think heckling is good but I will let you into a secret its really fucking annoying!

Well I was the fat funny kid at school.

Just out of curiousity, what would you do if you woke up as a man?

Go back to sleep!

With regards to the comics that you are recruiting for your shows, what are you looking for?

That is tough to answer. Lots of different qualities…the sort of comedy I like is absurd and ridiculous! But I am putting on a show for lots of people with different taste. I like to get a mixture of styles to keep the show engaging. But what it all really comes down to is being funny and charismatic. I have a core group of comedians and burlesque dancer that I book over and over again as I know they always do a great job! I do like the occasional risk booking too though!

Now what’s a risk booking in Kember world?

Well there is a performer at The Box in Soho that poos on a pizza and eats it on stage. I mean I would defo book him! A risk booking would be an act that is real niche. An audience divider! But really they are my favourite acts!

I guess it’s good to mix it up as opposed to playing it safe. I know your time is precious and you have to chase down a man who’s anus has pizza in its sights. Any last words for my audience?

Basically you all need to come to my show Hooray Cabaret on July 9^th. It will change your life! (It won’t but geez I’m trying to sell tickets here). And if you are in Edinburgh come and see us! I would like to say a big thank you to Verity Lewis for making my Hooray Cabaret vision come to life, she works really hard on the show and she always pays the bar tab at the end of the night! Just one more thing before I go, don’t take life too seriously, have fun, dance naked and be free. You are only around once! Thank you Munir for wanting to pick my brain!

The links below will allow you to get tickets to see Victoria at the next Hooray Cabaret event, book tickets to see her on Edinburgh, stalk her Facebook (she doesn’t mind) and hang out with her on Twitter.

Facebook: Hooray Cabaret event

Facebook Edinburgh: Edinburgh

Facebook: Victoria Kember

Twitter: Hooray Cabaret