After a successful opening with Abba Makama’s Green White Green, Lights Camera Africa!!! 2016 Film Festival is set to close today with The Amazing Nina Simeone.
In line with the festival’s ‘music makes the people’ theme, the seventy-minute film directed by Jeff Lieberman follows the story of the legendary African-American singer, Nina Simone who was both loved and feared for her outspoken vision of Black Freedom. Her musical proclamations like Mississippi Goddam, and her iconic style gave voice to people of all colours facing oppression, and continues to empower today with its unrelenting appeal for justice. The film offers a closer look at the woman who has given fans moments of pride and opportunities to cry in solitude.
Highlights of the ongoing festival include Onyeka Nwelue’s House of Nwapa and a vibrant conversation between Ego Boyo and Akin Omotoso – producer and director (respectively) of upcoming film A Hotel Called Memory. The festival also featured a musical performance by the Philip Uzo group and cocktails courtesy SKYY Vodka and Mateus sparkling wine.
Other films screening today include I Shot Bi Kidude and Lagos: 1861-1960: The Birth of A City of Style. According to festival founder and director, Ugoma Adegoke, “A magnificent concert featuring world renowned classical composer and Kora master, Tunde Jegede with his Art Ensemble is planned as the festival’s wrap up at 9.40pm.”
Guests can show their support by purchasing furniture items, publications and festival memorabilia at the souk located in the lounge designed by Ugoma Adegoke and Kelechi Odu. One Lagos Artist In Residence, Polly Alakija’s painted Volkswagen beetle boom box is also on display.
The festival is taking place at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos and is free and open to all.