FYB Of The Week – Asiwaju Stephen Kelly

Getting to know Stephen Kelly 

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

Kelly: Good evening, Stage Voice! I’m  Asiwaju Stephen-Kelly.

Stage Voice: Great to have you here, Stephen-Kelly! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Kelly: Sure! I’m a final-year student in the Department of Dramatic Arts, majoring in Stage Management. I’m a big fan of things that are out of the ordinary—they just intrigue me.

Stage Voice: That’s cool! So why stage management? What made you choose it?

Kelly: Funny story—it wasn’t something I planned to do at all. But after managing a few productions, I realized I was actually good at it. So I thought, “Why not focus on something I’m already doing well?” And here we are.

Life As An FYB

Stage Voice: Makes sense! So, how does it feel to finally be an FYB?

Kelly: Honestly, it feels like such a relief! I’ve been looking forward to this since my first year, and it’s amazing to finally be here.

Stage Voice: I can imagine! Have you ever felt like giving up at any point?

Kelly: Oh, definitely! Too many times to count, actually. And if I’m being honest, I’m still in one of those moments right now. But hey, the end is near, and I’m holding on!

Stage Voice: That’s real. Can you share one of those moments with us?

Kelly: Hmm, not right now. Let me finish first—then we can talk about it!

Stage Voice: Fair enough! But do you think there’s something others could learn from those moments?

Kelly: Honestly, it’s just the regular challenges we all face as Dramatic Arts students—tight deadlines, back-to-back rehearsals, and all that. Maybe I’ve had a bit more to deal with, but we all get through it eventually.

Entrepreneurial Spirit 

Stage Voice: True! So, do you have any side hustle or business you’re running?

Kelly: Yeah, I do. I’m a crypto trader and enthusiast.

Stage Voice: Wow, that’s impressive! How do you manage to balance that with school?

Kelly: It’s been tough, honestly. School takes up most of my time, so I usually have to work late at night or over the weekends. But I’ve been managing it well lately, and I’m grateful for that.

Personal life

Stage Voice: That’s great to hear! Quick question—if you were given ₦100 million to start again at OAU, would you?

Kelly: Hmm, that’s a tough one. But honestly, yes. I’ve had an amazing time here—learned so much about myself, met incredible people, and had some unique experiences. So yeah, I’d choose OAU again.

Stage Voice: That’s interesting! What about life after school—what’s next for you?

Kelly: Sighs. That’s a big question. I have some plans, but life doesn’t always go the way we expect. I’m looking forward to discovering new opportunities and seeing how I can shape my future. It’s a bit scary, but I believe I’ll be fine.

Stage Voice: I like that mindset! Do you have anyone you’d like to give a shout-out to?

Kelly: Of course! Shout-out to my family, my friends-turned-brothers—Big-Phlex, AY, Kuri, Zoo, the Outsiders, and Lowkey. To my amazing classmates, Junine Gems, Luminous, and my cast and crew from The Hangmen Also Die. And a big shout-out to the entire Dramatic Arts family. You guys are the best!

Stage Voice: That’s wonderful. It’s been great having you here, Stephen-Kelly.

Kelly: Thanks so much for having me I I  really appreciate it!

“Stephen-Kelly’s story is a reminder to keep pushing, even when things get tough. He’s shown that with resilience and focus, you can find your path and excel at it. Take inspiration from his journey—embrace your challenges, pursue your passions, and celebrate the people who make the journey worthwhile. Keep going; you’ve got this!”

Interviewed and Published by Ogunseye Timothy 

 

/0 Comments/by

DASAITES Of The Week – Adekoya Gbemisola

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 

 

 

/0 Comments/by

DASAITES Of The Week -Adefisan Lucas Ayobami

Life In Dramatic Arts 

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

Lucas: Hi! I’m Adefisan Lucas Ayobami, a second-year student of Dramatic Arts, and I also serve as the class representative.

Stage Voice: Great! Can you share your experience since becoming a Dramatic Arts student?

Lucas: It’s been quite a journey. There were moments when my passion and enthusiasm were challenged, but looking back, it’s all been worth it.

Stage Voice: What were some of the challenges that led to your frustration?

Lucas: Well, I’ve always been passionate about drama, so I came into the department ready for anything. But I had high expectations, and not all of them were met. On top of that, juggling my responsibilities as a class rep, staying engaged in the department, and focusing on my personal development has been overwhelming at times.

Stage Voice: How have you managed to balance your rehearsals with your duties as class rep?

Lucas: I’ve learned to create a detailed schedule, balancing my personal time with rehearsals. I also share some of my class rep duties with a few classmates to ease the load.

Entrepreneurial Spirit 

Stage Voice: Do you have any business ventures outside of school?

Lucas: Yes, I’m a hairstylist, and I also do some exchange business.

Stage Voice: That’s impressive! You must be juggling a lot—business, rehearsals, and class rep duties. How do you manage it all?

Lucas: Honestly, it’s all thanks to God.

Stage Voice: So, how do you manage rehearsals, classes, and your business?

Lucas: I work as a mobile hairstylist, so I go to my clients’ homes when they book my services. I also have a fixed class schedule, so I use my free periods to manage my time efficiently.

Stage Voice: That sounds like a lot of work! But it must be rewarding.

Personal life 

Stage Voice: Are you currently in a relationship?

Lucas: Yes, I am

Stage Voice: Haha, that’s great!

Stage Voice: Do you have any advice for incoming students and future class reps?

Lucas: My advice would be to stay focused and keep your head in the game. There are many distractions in our department, so it’s important to remain determined.

Stage Voice: Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, Lucas.

Lucas: Thank you!

Adefisan Lucas Ayobami’s story is a testament to resilience, focus, and determination. Whether you’re a student, a leader, or pursuing your passions, his journey reminds us that challenges are opportunities to grow. Are you ready to take charge of your life like Lucas? Stay focused, plan wisely, and never lose sight of your goals. Whether it’s juggling leadership roles, running a business, or pursuing your dreams, you have the power to make it all work.

Start today—stay determined, embrace challenges, and push towards your success!

 

 

Interviewed by Ogunseye Timothy

Edited by Charos Adegoke

/0 Comments/by