Tamara Etiemo, better known as Tamara Jones, is a multi-talented performer. The actress and singer, in this chat with Assistant Editor, Sam Anokam, talks about her work as an actress, music career and why she likes her privacy
What makes a good actor?
Tamara Etiemo
There are so many factors involved; among them is discipline as an individual and on set and the ability to study roles extensively and be able to interpret the character. Being original is one essential element an actor must portray, as well as interpreting roles without stress and making them believable.
What makes a good musician?
The most important thing that makes a good musician is his voice. Without that, he is like a farmer without his tools. Discipline is also key.
Which came first for you, music or acting?
Music came first for me but I was singing while getting myself prepared for the movie industry. I didn’t want anything to interrupt my education, because I knew I would come to Lagos; so I waited to finish my studies in the University of Port Harcourt, were I studied Theatre Arts.
You seem to be more of an actress.
At the moment I feel more comfortable acting, not because I don’t like singing but acting has always been my first love. Music gave me money at the time I was singing; that is not to say I am not making money as an actress, but music money and acting money are different. As a musician, you just perform for a few minutes and get paid but acting you spend weeks and sometimes months for pay. Most people would prefer the few minutes but I derive joy while acting. I might sing sometime again, who knows, just as the spirit leads.
What influenced your going into acting?
The influence was from my childhood days; whenever I watched a movie I always believed I could act better. So I started acting in front of my mirror, sometimes I tried to act out a role I watched in a movie. Then as I get older, my love for acting grew stronger too. My studying Theater Arts was what I always wanted because I wanted to perfect my skills as an actor. As part of my training, I also went for the Del York International/Newyork Film Academy by Linus and Stephanie Okereke.
When did you go into full-time acting and how has the experience been?
I started acting professionally in 2011 after winning the Next Movie Star, a reality TV show by Sola Fajobi. The experience, for me, has been awesome; my growth has been great, and I am grateful to God who made it possible.
What plans do you have for your career this year?
My plan for the year is to get bigger and better. This plan will not take place without hard work, discipline and humility, which have always been my watchwords.
When is your next movie coming out, after Somewhere Down the Line?
I have actually produced my second movie, which was shot last year, it will be released this year, by the grace of God, and there is more to come. The title of the film is Oyoma, which starred some of my great colleagues in the industry.
What other passion are you going to exhibit to the world?
Well I am sure when that passion comes the world would see it but for now I am exhibiting a few, which are acting and producing.
Are you hooked, married or single?
I believe that my private life should be kept private.
What kind of man would you want to marry?
My ideal man is for me and should be kept private too.
Which part of your body do you cherish the most and why?
The part of my body I cherish the most is my face because that is where all the magic comes from. Expressions from my eyes, which are the most essential part as an actor, speak so much, without me saying anything.
Tell us some things we don’t know about you?
I am a shy person, which is one thing a lot of people might not know about me. I can be reserved to an extent but I am a fun-loving person too.
The post I have a magic face –Tamara Etiemo appeared first on Daily Independent, Nigerian Newspaper.