‘Constructive criticism helps artistes to grow’

Sinmileoluwa Hassan is a stage and screen actor. The Ogun State native is a graduate of theatre arts from the University of Ibadan, Oyo State and served his nation for a year at the Delta State Council for Arts and Culture. Growing up, the young man watched with keen interest how stars displayed their talent on screen.

“I watched a lot of TV and I was in drama group in my teen church, but I took it a step further by actually studying theatre arts at the University of Ibadan, in 2005. So, I can say that I got into acting, really, in the university. My first real experience in acting was during my university days. I was asked to read a scene with another actor. I did pretty well and I got the part. On the night of the performance, I kept telling myself not to look at the audience, just go out there and do what an actor should. So, I went out, did it and that was it. Judging from my mannerisms and voice, members of the audience felt something different and the rest is history.”

Sinmileoluwa, who is also an on-air personality, has featured in Ajoche, Arabida, Opeyemi and others said there are notable programmes he watched while growing up and actors in the film whom he looked up to. “I watched a lot of TV programmes like Some Mothers Do Have Them, Love Thy Neighbour, Behind The Clouds, Ripples to mention a few. Maybe because I didn’t really understand the concept of art but then, I came across Denzel Washington in my adult years and I’ve been following him ever since. Denzel is smooth and makes acting look so easy on screen. I also followed Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Clement Ohameze, Sam Dede and a couple of great actors. All these actors make it look so easy, and I try as much as I can to do same, on stage and screen.”

He continued: “Every script has a story to tell, and that’s what I look out for, although, right now I’m not so picky. Another question I ask myself is if this script will boost my career because I really need that right now.”

On how he handles criticism, he said, “no matter what you do, good or bad, people will always have something to say about you. I always welcome artistic/constructive criticism, because no man has a monopoly of knowledge especially in the arts. So, I’m open to correction, suggestions and advise. On other hand, if someone is just trying to tear my work simply because he doesn’t like me or something, I just ignore as I much as I can and improve on my work

“On the job, I’ve learnt a lot. Dynamism is key. Always reinvent yourself. Bring something different to the table otherwise you’ll be left behind. I’m also learning to speak my thoughts about a particular scene, action, dialogue to the director, so we can both get the best. Be nice to people working with you as well. Right now, I’m working on a TV series, which should be airing later this year or early next year. Besides that, I’m still looking for work, so to every filmmaker out there, I’m up for some work. One thing I’d like to see change is increased opportunities for new faces and creatives in the industry and more structured funding,” he said.