SOLA Ogundele is an actor and has served as an Acting Coach for Super Prof, a drama group. Its focus is delivering online tutorials that cater to diverse learning styles.

This role involves designing engaging lesson plans that not only improve acting skills but also instill self-confidence in students. By incorporating modern teaching methods and technology, the aim is to create an interactive and supportive learning environment that enhances students’ overall performance abilities.

A member of Asanlu Entertainment Empire since 2022, he has performed in notable productions including: Aare Ona Kankanfo as Seriki (2024), Macbeth as Macduf (2023), Black Friday as Olawale (2021), Shadows of the ancestors as Ifediba (2021) among others, is a graduate of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages from University of Ilorin, Kwara State. He speaks with GREGORY AUSTIN NWAKUNOR.

You have acted or played in so many productions, what is your process for researching and developing a character from the ground up?

My process begins with a deep dive into the script, understanding the character’s backstory and motivations. I then research the relevant context, historical, cultural, or psychological aspects. Physicality and voice work come next, allowing me to embody the character fully. Finally, I collaborate with directors and fellow actors to refine and enrich the portrayal.

What acting technique do you feel most connected to and how has it influenced your work?
Well, I draw a lot of inspiration from legendary actor Marlon Brando hence one technique I learnt from him is Method acting. This approach allows me to fully identify with the characters I play as it emphasises a deep emotional connection to the character.

Can you describe a challenging role you’ve played and how you ensured the authenticity of your performance?
One role that has challenged me most till date was playing George in Mullato, a character that required me to play a British slave master, cruel and daunting. I had to master the accent for months and learn a new mannerism that actually gave me my first standing ovation within the theatre.
How do you find a balance between staying true to the script and adding your own interpretation to a role?

There’s actually a thin line between embodying the script so you can be original and staying by the script, I guess it’s why I work closely with the director so he can guide me in bodying the character and not going off the script.
Of all the roles you have played, which one is your favourite and why?

Ifediba, in Shadows of the ancestors, has to be my favourite role, because it is both challenging and satisfying. Playing an Igbo character as a Yoruba boy was not only new, but equally refreshing. Also, the perks of being a Prince and accorded respect all through the story even in death. That’s been my favourite so far.

In your opinion what is the most important quality for an actor to possess?
I will say ’be dynamic’. I wrote an article last year on how a lot of actors have been stereotyped in the industry, hence you’re not seen playing any other thing and I think we actors allow it. You have to be dynamic as an actor so that you can fit into any role you’re given, it broadens your scope as an actor.

What initially motivated you to pursue acting as a career?
I actually grew up within that environment. I watched my uncle-turned father, Steve Ogundele, act in different soaps growing up. I also used to go watch my sister, Omolayo Oyawoye, play several characters during her university days. Since then, I knew I wanted to be an actor too, so, I joined a drama group in high school, which earned me the most popular student title at the time. That was my motivation.

Can you share a story about a memorable or unexpected moment on set or on stage?
This was actually quite recent, while performing in Moxie of Aare Ona Kakanfo, just before my scene, there was a power outage and I wasn’t sure if to wait or go on stage, alas I didn’t have a choice because the co-actors were already on stage. Immediately I got on stage, the audience brought out their phones and turned on their flashlights and it illuminated the stage such that we could go on and nothing was missed. That was memorable because it’s testament that the audience were not only there to watch, but were empathetic of the situation.

How do you handle the pressures that come with being in the public eye?
That’s the price you pay for fame, the prayer is to be rich and famous.

How has your approach to acting evolved throughout your career?
My experience with big shots and professionals in the business coupled with lots of learning, has shaped my career from novice to the professional I am today. As long as you’re open to learning, you keep getting better at it.