Life In Dramatic Arts

Stage Voice Interview with Ifedolapo

Stage Voice: Hey, good evening. I am from Stage Voice. Can you please tell us your full name?

Ifedolapo: Hi, good evening. Ifedolapo is my name.

Stage Voice: Nice meeting you, Ifedolapo.

Stage Voice: Kindly tell us a bit about yourself.

Ifedolapo: Nice to meet you too. I’m a final year student, a Dance major, a content creator, among other things, and I think I’m unusual a lot of times.

Stage Voice: Fantastic. Can you please tell us more about what you mean by being unusual?

Ifedolapo: Hmm, it’s relative. Let’s say I’m very impulsive, and apparently, I do things that some people find strange but not in a bad way.

Stage Voice: That’s intriguing. Can you give us an example of something impulsive you’ve done that might be considered unusual?

Ifedolapo: I don’t know… hmm. I say the most random things unprovoked, if that counts.

Stage Voice: That’s quite interesting.

Stage Voice: So, what made you choose Dance as your major?

Ifedolapo: Hmm, I watched a dance performance when I was in my first year, “Shiva.” I was interested in how wide and beyond dance, dance can be.

Stage Voice: It’s nice how a single performance can spark a passion. Can you tell us more about what drew you specifically to “Shiva” and how it influenced your decision to choose Dance as your major?

Ifedolapo: Funny, but I picked Dramatic Arts to be a set designer because I draw and paint on walls and just get creative at any given chance. But it wasn’t as simple as I thought, and honestly, I couldn’t care less. Initiation wasn’t even intimidating to me at the time because I was just a very “whatever” person. I knew I could dance, but theatre dance was new to me, and I didn’t care much. That performance just opened my eyes to possibilities.

Stage Voice: Wow, that’s nice.

Life As An FYB

Stage Voice: As a final year student, how do you feel?

Ifedolapo: I just want to graduate.

Stage Voice: Why did you say that?

Ifedolapo: My reason is that I just want to graduate, please.

Stage Voice: Okay.

Stage Voice: Have you ever felt like giving up?

Ifedolapo: If this course was a five year course, I would not come back after this semester.

Stage Voice: It’s so obvious you want to graduate.

Stage Voice: Even if you were offered 50 million to stay for one more year?

Ifedolapo: Because I don’t have a small mind. Fifty million can be made outside of this place. Let me just be going, please.

Stage Voice: You are so eager to move on to the next stage of your life.

Personal Life

Stage Voice: So, do you have any business you do?

Ifedolapo: Not eager, just tired of this toxic environment.

Ifedolapo: I’m a hairstylist, and I write too.

Stage Voice: Wow. So, how do you balance being a hairstylist, content creator, and writer with your academics?

Ifedolapo: I don’t even know. I just do it.

Stage Voice: Interesting. You must be a hardworking person.

Stage Voice: So, what advice do you have for other Dramatic Arts students and people outside this place?

Ifedolapo: Nobody listens to advice anymore. Do whatever you like.

Stage Voice: Thank you.

Stage Voice: Is there anyone you want to give a shout out to?

Ifedolapo: You’re welcome.

Ifedolapo: Helen and Ore. Sui Generis, Luminous, Exemplars, my dance family.

Stage Voice: Thank you so much for your time, Ifedolapo.

“Ifedolapo’s journey reminds us that passion can take unexpected turns, and sometimes, you just have to go with it. Whether it’s dance, design, or content creation, do what speaks to you and don’t let anything hold you back. In the end, it’s all about finding your own rhythm. So go for it!”

Interviewed and Published by Ogunseye Timothy 

Life in Dramatic Arts

Stage Voice: Hi, good evening. I’m from Stage Voice. Can you please introduce yourself?

Sharon: Good evening. My name is Ojo Sharon Oluwanifemi.

Stage Voice: Nice meeting you, Sharon! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Sharon: I’m a Part 1 Dramatic Arts student and also Miss DASA. I’m from Ondo State. I love dancing, listening to music, and, honestly, I sleep a lot. I’m a Christian, and I’m 18.

Stage Voice: How has your experience been so far as a Dramatic Arts student and Miss DASA?

Sharon: Being a Dramatic Arts student has been both stressful and fun at the same time. Some days, it’s really exciting, and other times, it feels overwhelming. I honestly wasn’t expecting it to be this demanding.

My experience as Miss DASA, though, has been absolutely amazing. This is such a great opportunity to showcase myself in ways I’ve always dreamed of. Being crowned Miss DASA is a huge deal for me because it just proves that all my efforts weren’t in vain. After everything, it actually paid off! And I have to give all the glory to God He has been doing so much for me, and I truly couldn’t have done this without Him.

Stage Voice: That’s incredible! I’m really happy for you.

Sharon: Thank you so much!

Stage Voice: So, what are the stressful parts and the fun parts of being a Dramatic Arts student?

Sharon: Balancing academics with my spiritual life, my love life, and everything else is a struggle. The endless rehearsals early mornings, late nights it’s like they’re out to drain me! And sleep? I barely get any. I know it’s not the most important thing, but at this point, I really need it. It’s just been a lot to handle.

Stage Voice: That sounds like a lot for you. Hopefully, as time goes on, you’ll find a way to balance things up.

Stage Voice: And please, find time to sleep you really need it.

Sharon: Honestly! I will try. Thank you.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Stage Voice: Do you have any business ventures?

Sharon: Not yet, but I’m planning to start something soon. I’m also a content creator, and I make money from that.

Stage Voice: That’s interesting! How have you been able to balance content creation and academics?

Sharon: I haven’t, honestly. I haven’t been able to create real content in a while, but this semester, I’m going to start working on my socials again.

Stage Voice: Wow, sounds like school has really kept you busy.

Personal Life 

Stage Voice: So, are you in a relationship, or are you proudly in the single people’s club?

Sharon: I’m in a relationship!

Stage Voice: That’s great! Do you have anyone you’d like to give a shoutout to?

Sharon: First of all, I want to thank God. No matter what, He’s always been there for me, even when no one else was. He’s had my back through everything, and I’m truly grateful.

Secondly, a huge shoutout to my family. They’ve supported me so much, and I appreciate them deeply for always standing by me.

And of course, my boyfriend. That guy is amazing. I just want to appreciate him for always holding it down for me. No matter what, I know he’s got my back, and that means a lot.

Lastly, to my friends well, kind of. I don’t really have solid friendships like that, but I do appreciate the people who were there for me at some point. Even if we’re not as close anymore, I still acknowledge the role they played in my journey.

That should be all!

Stage Voice: Thank you so much, Sharon, for your time.

Sharon: No problem! Thank you as well.

Interviewed and Published by Ogunseye Timothy

Introduction 

Stage Voice: Hi! Good afternoon i am from stage voice

Sovereign:Hi I’m Garba Oyindamola also know as sovereign

Stage Voice: How are you doing today?

Sovereign: I’m doing very well, thank you.

Stage Voice: How has the semester been?

Sovereign: Stressful.

Stage Voice: Oh no, sorry to hear that. Why, if I may ask?

Sovereign: The coursework has been very stressful, demanding, and mentally exhausting.

Role In the Association

Stage Voice: I’m sorry to hear that.

So, you’re an executive member of this department. What position do you hold?

Sovereign: Yes, I am. I’m the treasurer.

Stage Voice: How are you coping with work and your responsibilities?

Sovereign: It hasn’t been easy, but we’re managing. I’m learning to take things one day at a time.

Stage Voice: That’s good to know.

What are your responsibilities as the treasurer?

Sovereign: Mostly taking care of the association’s properties. I also step in for the financial secretary when needed.

Stage Voice: Why did you decide to run for the position?

Sovereign: I was drawn to the workings of the student association and how it runs daily.

Stage Voice: Okay, I see.

What challenges have you faced in office?

Sovereign: Mostly keeping up with people. Since my role involves handling properties—and to some extent, money—there’s always that concern of not wanting to have DASA’s funds in my hands for too long.

Stage Voice: That makes sense. Has all of this affected your personal life?

Sovereign: It has, actually.

Personal Life

Stage Voice: How are you balancing your personal life with everything else?

Sovereign: I barely have time to spend with my loved ones, and my relationship has suffered because of it. But I’m very good at setting boundaries and compartmentalizing. I keep my personal life and responsibilities separate.

Stage Voice: That must be tough.

So… are you in a relationship?

Sovereign: Yeah, I am.

Stage Voice: That’s nice. I hope he understands your busy schedule?

Sovereign: To an extent, yes. It’s not easy for someone who isn’t in the arts to fully understand the intensity of this department. But he knows that I love what I do, and I’m grateful that he respects that and supports me.

Stage Voice: That’s really good to hear.

Well done! What advice do you have for those aspiring to be executive members?

Sovereign: Be ready to work. It’s not all fun and games—there’s real work to be done, and it’s not easy. But it has to get done regardless.

Stage Voice: Thank you!

Your name, please?

Sovereign: Sovereign.

Stage Voice: Thank you for your time.

“Leadership in student associations is not just a title; it’s a commitment to hard work, responsibility, and growth. If you’re aspiring to take on an executive role, be prepared to put in the effort and make a difference. Get involved, stay dedicated, and be the change you want to see

Interviewed by Egbri Aghogho

Published by Ogunseye Timothy 

Life As An FYB

Stage Voice: Hello, welcome to Stage Voice. Can you please tell us your name?

Aanuoluwapo: My name is Aanuoluwapo Oluwaseun.

Stage Voice: It’s nice meeting you, Aanuoluwapo.

Stage Voice: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Aanuoluwapo: Hmm, okay. I’m in part 4. I’m an acting major, I bake, I sing, and I dance a little.

Stage Voice: Wow, that’s great! So why did you choose acting instead of dancing?

Aanuoluwapo: Hmm, actually, until part 3, first semester, I still wanted to do dance because that’s why I picked drama. But second semester, I acted in some plays for the Festival of Plays and did well. I realized I didn’t see myself dancing after school, so I decided to focus on acting.

Stage Voice: Hmm, a last-minute decision.

Aanuoluwapo: Yes, exactly.

Stage Voice: So how has acting been? Are you enjoying it?

Aanuoluwapo: Hmm, acting is actually fun. But we have to read—a lot. Not small books, though. We also have to watch movies. I have like eight more to watch right now. Then there’s the training; I have to wake up early, go to the field, do exercises, and then attend classes. And I also have a business to run. Acting is stressful, but I enjoy it.

Stage Voice: So if I major in acting, this is the kind of commitment required? I might just consider children’s theatre instead.

Aanuoluwapo: Yes, exactly. But you’ll enjoy it.

Stage Voice: Hmm, we’ll see. The bonding part sounds interesting, though.

Aanuoluwapo: Definitely. You bond with your classmates, even with your lecturers. You share ideas, work together, sleep together, eat together—it’s fun.

Stage Voice: Sounds like a great experience. So, as a final-year student, how do you feel?

Aanuoluwapo: I’m super happy!

Stage Voice: Of course, you should be! What’s making you feel this way?

Aanuoluwapo: I just want to graduate and leave this school. After five years, I’m finally leaving. That makes me very happy.

Stage Voice: That’s understandable. Have there been moments when you felt like giving up?

Aanuoluwapo: Definitely. The workload is overwhelming. We’re in our final year, and it’s supposed to ease up, but no. Assignments, materials, printing, research—it’s a lot.

Stage Voice: I can relate. The stress can be so much. Don’t worry; God will see you through.

Aanuoluwapo: Amen

Entrepreneurial Spirit 

Stage Voice: So, as a baker, how do you balance business and academics?

Aanuoluwapo: I used to bake at night so I could sell the next day, but now I’ve reduced the workload.

Stage Voice: That must have been exhausting.

Aanuoluwapo: It was. Now I do pre-orders. Customers tell me what they need, and I combine orders to deliver everything at once.

Stage Voice: That’s smart!

Aanuoluwapo: Yes, it works well for me.

Stage Voice: A quick one: if you were given 50 million naira to start from part 1 at OAU again with all your needs met, would you do it?

Aanuoluwapo: Ah, the money is tempting, but no. I’m tired. I just want to leave this school.

Stage Voice: Really? Even with a free car and house?

Aanuoluwapo: I want all that, but I still wouldn’t do it.

Advice To other Students

Stage Voice: Fair enough. So, what advice do you have for the Exemplars?

Aanuoluwapo: Don’t copy others. Everyone has their own talent, so focus on building yourself. Also, don’t limit yourself to Pit Theatre; explore outside of it. Life isn’t just about Pit Theatre. God bless you all—I love you guys!

Stage Voice: Wise words!

Stage Voice: Thank you, Aunty Aanu. What are your plans after school?

Aanuoluwapo: I’ll keep that to myself for now.

Stage Voice: Understandable. Who’s getting your shoutout?

Aanuoluwapo: A lot of people! Sewa, my friend from part 1, Edema, Cosy, Adedoyin, Iya Mode, Tioluwanimi—she gave me my first major role in Pit Theatre—Toyosi, Eriifeoluwa, my baby. I’ll miss him. Thank you all!

Stage Voice: That’s wonderful. It’s been great having you, Aanu.

Stage Voice: We wish you success in all your productions.

Aanuoluwapo: Thank you!

“Embrace your unique talent and never try to copy others because everyone has their own path to success. Explore beyond your comfort zone—don’t limit yourself to where you are now; there’s so much more to discover and achieve out there. The journey might be challenging, but stay focused, work hard, and always remember to build yourself up. With determination and faith, you can overcome anything. Keep going, and never stop reaching for your dreams. You’ve got this!”

Interviewed by Kolawole Olasubomi 

Published by Ogunseye Timothy 

Life In Dramatic Arts

Stage Voice: Hi, good evening! Welcome to Stage Voice. Can you please introduce yourself?

Gbemisola: Hello! I’m Adekoya Gbemisola. I’m an artist, a model, and currently the Assistant Class Rep of the Part 2 Dramatic Arts students.

Stage Voice: Nice to meet you, Gbemisola!

Gbemisola: Thank you!

Stage Voice: So, tell us about your journey as a Dramatic Arts student. What has the experience been like?

Gbemisola: Hmm, it’s been quite a ride! Part 1 was tough—I struggled a lot to adjust and had moments where I felt completely overwhelmed. But now, I’m finding my rhythm and thriving. It’s been a beautiful learning experience, and I’ve grown so much.

Stage Voice: That’s impressive. Growth like that takes strength.

Gbemisola: Thank you, I appreciate that.

Stage Voice: How have you managed to juggle being the Assistant Class Rep with your rehearsals and classes?

Gbemisola: Honestly, it’s all about teamwork. Adefisan Lucas, the Class Rep, has been super supportive, and we collaborate well. Plus, I prioritize time management—it helps me stay on top of things without compromising on rehearsals or academics.

Stage Voice: That’s inspiring. Time management is no joke!

Gbemisola: Absolutely!

Entrepreneurial Spirit 

Stage Voice: Do you run any businesses alongside your studies?

Gbemisola: Apart from modeling? Not yet, but who knows what the future holds?

Stage Voice: True that! So, what’s your experience been like as a model?

Gbemisola: Oh, it’s been amazing! Modeling is my escape. It’s not just about the pay—I genuinely love it. It gives me a sense of freedom and helps me unwind from all the stress.

Stage Voice: That sounds fulfilling. But how do you balance modeling with schoolwork?

Gbemisola: Planning is key. I schedule shoots when I’m absolutely free, so I don’t miss out on anything important in school. It’s all about finding that balance.

Stage Voice: You make it sound so effortless! I need to learn from you.

Gbemisola: Haha, thank you! Maybe I should start a class on time management?

Stage Voice: Sign me up already!

Gbemisola: Noted!

mi

Personal Life 

Stage Voice: So, here’s a fun question—are you in a relationship?

Gbemisola: Ah, no o! Right now, I’m just focused on “character development.” Life keeps throwing lessons my way!

Stage Voice: Haha! What kind of character development?

Gbemisola: Let’s just say it’s turning me into a villain. But on a serious note, I’ve had my share of heartbreaks, and I think I need time to heal. Maybe a year or so.

Stage Voice: Wow. Healing is important. I hope you find peace soon.

Gbemisola: Thank you. Same to anyone else going through tough times.

Advice To Other Students

Stage Voice: That’s very thoughtful. Do you have any advice for other students?

Gbemisola: Definitely—don’t be too hard on yourself. Everyone has their own pace, so focus on yours. Don’t let anyone push you beyond your limits.

Stage Voice: That’s solid advice. Thank you so much, Gbemisola, for sharing your story.

Gbemisola: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure.

embrace growth, balance your passions with discipline, and prioritize self-care. Remember, everyone has their own pace, so focus on yours and never let challenges dim your light. Start your journey of character development today—plan, grow, and thrive!”

Interviewed and Published by Ogunseye Timothy