Yeye Funmilayo Emily Ajamufua is a United State-based multi-talented Nigerian artist singer, actor, dancer, director, and costume designer. She is the Programmes Director of Bi-Okoto Drum & Dance Theatre, a professional African Cultural Institute based in Ohio, US. In this interview with , she recalls her journey as a dancer, actor, and manager.
She also shares her thoughts about Afrobeat, Nollywood, and other issues I didn’t exactly set out to be an artiste, but fate had other plans. Growing up, I was always drawn to the arts, even when my initial dream was to pursue mass communication and become a broadcaster. However, I found myself naturally gravitating towards the arts, and it felt like a perfect fit.
I think it’s because arts was already ingrained in me from a young age. My elder brother introduced me to the National Theatre when I was just 8 years old, and the experience left an indelible mark on my memory. He was there for a rehearsal, and I was fascinated by the energy and creativity that filled the space.
Additionally, my mom was part of an entertainment group during her time at Leventis store, so you could say that art was in my blood. As I grew older, I found it easy to learn and adapt to the world of arts, and I eventually fell in love with it. So, while I didn’t initially plan to become an artiste, I’m grateful that life led me down this path.
Growing up, I was always drawn to the spotlight, and my passion for dance and performance was evident from a young age. Whenever I attended parties, I would eagerly participate in dance competitions and consistently place in the top 3. My confidence and stage presence were further honed through my involvement in the literary and debating society in secondary school, where I represented my school at various events.
Good Music was my trigger, and I couldn’t help but dance whenever I heard a rhythm, regardless of the audience. However, it wasn’t until I was older that I received formal training and guidance. As a member of the Lagos State standing troupe, I had the opportunity to represent the state and country at local and international festivals.
Through this experience, I learned the value of discipline, hard work, and dedication. Notably, I often learned on the job, adapting to new situations and challenges as they arose. This unconventional approach to my craft taught me to be resilient, creative, and open to growth.
These experiences have shaped me into the artiste I am today, and I continue to draw upon them for inspiration and guidance. The memorable experiences that spurred my interest in the creative arts are numerous, but a few stand out. One was being taken to the National Theatre by my brother at the age of 8.
The grandeur of the building and the energy of the performances left a lasting impression on me. Another experience was watching my mother and grandmother prepare for traditional ceremonies. I was fascinated by the intricate details of their attire and the significance of each adornment.
These moments sparked my interest in cultural heritage and the arts. Participating in dance competitions at parties and consistently placing in the top 3 boosted my confidence and stage presence. Being part of the literary and debating society in secondary school further honed my public speaking and performance skills.
Lastly, representing Lagos State and Nigeria at local and international festivals as a member of the standing troupe was a pivotal experience. It taught me discipline, hard work, and the value of cultural exchange. These experiences collectively ignited my passion for the creative arts and set me on the path to becoming the artiste I am today.
Yes, it is deliberate. While I appreciate the opportunities that Nollywood offers, I have chosen to focus on my stage productions and cultural advocacy. The stage is where I find the most creative fulfillment and connection with my audience.
I chose to focus on stage productions and cultural advocacy for several reasons: Firstly, the stage allows for a more immersive and interactive experience, enabling me to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Secondly, stage productions offer more creative control, allowing me to bring my unique vision and perspective to life. Thirdly, cultural advocacy is a passion of mine, and I believe that the stage provides an ideal platform to promote and celebrate our rich cultural heritage.
Lastly, I find that the stage challenges me to grow and improve constantly, pushing me to develop new skills and artistic expression. Overall, my focus on stage productions and cultural advocacy is driven by a desire for creative fulfillment, connection with audiences, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through my art. My journey as a dancer, actor, and manager has been a whirlwind of creativity, growth, and perseverance.
On one hand, I’ve been blessed to express myself through movement and storytelling, connecting with audiences and communities in profound ways. I’ve had the privilege of bringing characters to life, evoking emotions, and sparking important conversations. On the other hand, the path has not been without its challenges.
Juggling multiple roles and responsibilities can be overwhelming at times. The physical demands of dancing and performing take a toll on my body, while the emotional demands of portraying characters and managing stress can be exhausting. Staying creative and innovative in a competitive industry requires constant learning and adaptation.
Managing teams and collaborations can be a delicate balancing act, and marketing and promoting productions is a never-ending task. Despite these hurdles, I find solace in the joy and purpose that my work brings me. I’ve learned to prioritize, adapt, and seek support when needed.
The rewards of touching hearts and minds through performance make every obstacle worthwhile. With each step, I grow more resilient, more creative, and more determined to share my art with the world. Through Bi-Okoto, I’ve been involved in several exciting projects lately.
Okoto Kekere: Our pre-professional performance group has been busy preparing for a performance as they come. Mentorship Program: I’ve been guiding a new cohort of young artists, helping them develop their skills and find their unique voices. Collaborations: Bi-Okoto has been collaborating with international artists on a cultural exchange program, fostering global understanding and creativity.
Community Outreach: We’ve been engaging in outreach programs, bringing performance art and cultural activities to underserved communities and schools. These projects embody Bi-Okoto’s mission to promote cultural advocacy, artistic expression, and community engagement. I’m proud to be part of this impactful work.
I am grateful to Bi-Okoto for providing me with the platform to share our culture with the world. This opportunity has ignited a fire within me, and I shall continue to spread our heritage, ensuring its beauty and significance are never forgotten. I will keep pushing boundaries, sharing our stories, and celebrating our traditions, knowing that Bi-Okoto’s platform has given me the wings to do so.
My advice for budding artists, especially the female folk: Believe in yourself; trust your vision, voice, and creative expression. Stay true to your art; authenticity is key to standing out in a crowded industry. Embrace your uniqueness: Celebrate what sets you apart and makes your art distinctive.
Be resilient: Face rejection and criticism with courage and perseverance. Support one another: Foster a community of female artists who uplift and empower each other. Take ownership of your craft: Continuously learn, grow, and hone your skills.
Break barriers: Push boundaries and challenge societal norms through your art. Stay inspired: Draw from your experiences, culture, and passions to fuel your creativity. Network and collaborate: Build relationships and opportunities with fellow artists and industry professionals.
Keep creating: Consistency and persistence are essential to achieving success and making a lasting impact. Remember, your art is a powerful tool for self-expression, empowerment, and change. Own your voice, and never let anyone dull your sparkle! As an artist, I am driven by a passion to celebrate African cultural heritage and empower underrepresented voices.
My art reflects my soul, deeply rooted in the traditions and stories of my community. I believe in the transformative power of creativity, and I strive to inspire, educate, and uplift through my work. With every beat, every movement, and every word, I pour my heart and soul into my art.
I embrace collaboration and community engagement, knowing that together, we can create something truly remarkable. My artistic journey is a continuous path of growth, learning, and innovation. I push boundaries, blend styles, and explore new ways to express myself, always staying true to my unique voice and vision.
Through my art, I aim to leave a legacy that celebrates our diversity, promotes cross-cultural understanding, and inspires future generations to embrace their creativity and individuality. I am an artist, a cultural advocate, and a storyteller, dedicated to making a positive impact on the world, one creative expression at a time. Our traditional dances and heritage were the icing on the cake.
They intoxicate me with pride and joy, knowing that I am sharing our vibrant culture and changing the narrative. Our traditional dances are more than just movements; they are a symbol of our resilience, strength, and identity. By sharing them, I hope to inspire a sense of pride and connection to our roots.
No regrets, as every experience has led me to where I am today..
