Princess Abiye stars in Obi Emelonye's Oxford Gardens

Princess Abiye

I met her on the set of Oxford Gardens, a new Nollywood film yet to be released. Her movies to-date include… Saving Grace (her first produced film), Amina, International Games, Oga Detective, Housewives and Girlfriends, Broken Cross, The Soul and many others.

So it was wonderful chatting with London based actress, presenter and producer, Princess Abiye. Read what she had to say about Oxford Gardens, a new film directed by Obi Emelonye …

What role did you play in this movie?

I played Mrs Onuoha, mother to Munachi.

Do you feel that you are much the character you played? – maybe personality wise or physically?

I would say yes to both. I’m quite an emotional person and my physical appearance made my role believable.

Princess Abiye with screen husband Mr Michael

How did you connect to this character?

Connecting with the character was very easy as I’m a mother, and then coupled with my emotional side, I was able to connect better with my ‘daughter’ - Munachi.

What was your favourite part in the making of this movie?

My favourite part was seeing Munachi on the bench. The emotion was awesome.

What was your most challenging part in the making of this movie?

Honestly, (for my scenes) there were no challenging parts to them as the team was awesome, professional, well organized and we all worked in love by supporting each other.

Is this your first film with UK/Nollywood movie director Obi Emelonye?

Yes this is my first film with my Uncle like I fondly call him and I am blessed to be cast in it. Thank you Uncle!

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love to paint! Honestly it's always a disaster! One would think they just entered into a horror zone! It's always a mess with paint everywhere. Secondly, I love inventing new recipes, after which I ask myself “why did you bother in the first place?”

Are there any actors/actresses (Nigeria and beyond) who’s work/success inspires you?

I love Oprah Winfrey. I’m inspired by Omotola Jalade (Nollywood legend) who featured in the movie Amina with me. Also Joselyn Dumas, the Ghanianian actress who played my step-daughter in the film On My Return. These women are brilliant. They inspire me with the positive impact they create for themselves and in their career.

If you could star in a re-make of a classic film, who would you want to play?

Too many to choose from. I love classical films but definitely a strong woman in power, but who also has a soft side in her. I would say Oprah Winfrey or Patience Ozokwu (Nollywood legend).

The slogan of the movie (Oxford Gardens) is “If today was your last day on earth, how would you spend it?” Name two things you would like to do!

 Lol! I will love to pass the night at the Queen’s palace and dive in an ocean to destroy that fear of water!

Thank you for your time and looking forward to seeing you on the red carpet of Oxford Gardens!

Princess Abiye is on twitter as www.twitter.com/princessabiye

And facebook as www.facebook.com/princess.abiye/

Princess Abiye's first produced film

Princess Abiye, Iffy Chukwu, Ng Thompson