Deyemi Okanlawon, a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry, has offered valuable advice to skit makers who harbor aspirations of transitioning into professional acting. In a recent interview, Okanlawon emphasized the importance of perseverance, honing one’s craft, and holding onto the vision of a successful acting career.
The Rise of Skit Comedy and the Allure of Nollywood
The explosion of social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube has fostered a thriving skit comedy scene in Nigeria. Talented individuals are creating hilarious short-form content, garnering massive followings and online fame. Naturally, for some of these successful skit makers, the allure of Nollywood, Nigeria’s booming film industry, becomes a natural next step.
However, the transition from creating online skits to delivering captivating performances in feature films is not always smooth. The skillsets required for each are distinct, and the demands of professional acting can be far more rigorous than the fast-paced world of online skits.
Bridging the Gap: From Skits to Serious Acting
Deyemi Okanlawon acknowledges the challenges faced by aspiring actors emerging from the skit comedy scene. “If you’re ever trying to do anything different from the norm,” he says, “if you’re known for something and you’re trying to do something different, it’s going to be difficult.”
Okanlawon, himself a veteran of the industry, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the difference between skit acting and professional acting. Skit performances often rely on comedic timing, improvisation, and over-the-top characters. While these skills are valuable, professional acting demands a more nuanced approach, requiring actors to embody characters with depth and believability.
Deyemi’s Words of Wisdom: Perseverance and Continuous Learning
So, how can skit makers successfully bridge the gap and make their mark in Nollywood? Deyemi Okanlawon offers several key pieces of advice:
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Keep the Vision Alive: Okanlawon stresses the importance of unwavering determination. “Nobody is going to readily roll over and allow you,” he says. He encourages aspiring actors to hold onto their dreams and maintain a persistent drive, even in the face of rejection.
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Formal Training is Key: While a background in skit comedy can provide a foundation in comedic timing and delivery, formal acting training is crucial. Okanlawon recommends enrolling in acting classes or workshops to hone essential skills such as character development, script analysis, and scene work.
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Embrace Diversity: Skit makers often carve a niche for themselves by portraying specific comedic characters. However, to thrive in Nollywood, actors need to demonstrate versatility. Okanlawon encourages aspiring actors to actively seek opportunities to showcase their range, taking on diverse roles that challenge them to step outside their comfort zones.
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Learn from the Masters: Closely observing established actors is an invaluable learning experience. Okanlawon advises aspiring actors to watch films critically, analyze the performances of veteran actors, and identify techniques they can incorporate into their own craft.
Beyond Acting: Building a Strong Foundation
Deyemi Okanlawon’s advice goes beyond the technical aspects of acting. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation that will support a successful career in the film industry. Here are some additional points he highlights:
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Professionalism: Punctuality, respect for crew and colleagues, and a positive attitude are essential for building a good reputation in the industry.
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Networking: Building relationships with other actors, directors, and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities.
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Self-Branding: In today’s digital age, a strong online presence can be beneficial. Aspiring actors can utilize social media platforms strategically to showcase their talents and build a fan base.
From Memes to the Mainstream: Success Stories
Deyemi Okanlawon’s advice rings true when considering the success stories of several Nigerian actors who have made the leap from online skits to Nollywood stardom. Actors like Wofunmi Adisa (popularly known as Mama Ereko) and Broda Shaggi have transitioned seamlessly, leveraging their online fame to carve out successful niches in the film industry. Their journeys serve as testaments to the potential for skit makers to achieve mainstream success in Nollywood.
The road from online skits to silver screen success is undoubtedly challenging. However, armed with Deyemi Okanlawon’s insightful advice, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of improvement, aspiring actors with a background in skit comedy can bridge the gap and make their mark on the ever-evolving landscape of Nollywood.
