Nollywood actress Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha has opened up about the intense preparation behind her role in the Netflix series Seven Doors.
Known for her stellar performances, Akpotha takes on the challenging character of an Igbo queen married to a Yoruba king, played by veteran actor Femi Adebayo.
The series, which explores themes of kingship, family, love, betrayal, and restitution, demanded more than just acting from its cast—it required linguistic adaptability.
In a recent interview with TVC, Chioma shared her experience of learning Yoruba for the role. “I had to learn Yoruba for my role in Seven Doors.
The Yoruba in the movie was not the regular one spoken in Lagos State, so I had to be very particular about the tone,” she revealed.
A role that required linguistic mastery
The role of an Igbo queen in a Yoruba kingdom posed unique challenges for Akpotha. To convincingly portray the character, she had to immerse herself in Yoruba culture and master the language.
The Yoruba spoken in the series is rich, traditional, and deeply rooted in cultural nuances. This was no small feat for the actress, whose primary language is Igbo.
Her commitment to the role showcases her dedication to her craft. “It wasn’t just about memorizing lines. I had to understand the meaning behind the words, the emotions they carried, and how to deliver them authentically,” Akpotha said during the interview.
Collaborating with co-star Femi Adebayo
Akpotha’s co-star, Femi Adebayo, played a crucial role in her language-learning journey. Adebayo, an accomplished actor and fluent Yoruba speaker, provided guidance and support throughout the process.
Their on-screen chemistry reflects the hard work and mutual respect that went into creating their characters.
Adebayo commended Akpotha’s determination and ability to adapt. “Chioma went above and beyond for this role. Learning a new language is not easy, especially one as intricate as Yoruba. She delivered her lines with precision and depth, which added authenticity to her character,” he remarked during the same interview.
The making of Seven Doors
Seven Doors is more than just a drama series; it is a cultural masterpiece that highlights Nigeria’s diversity.
By weaving a narrative that bridges two of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups the Igbo and Yoruba the series underscores the complexities of identity, tradition, and human relationships.
The plot delves into the intricacies of inter-tribal marriage and the challenges it brings, offering viewers a story that is both relatable and thought-provoking.
For Akpotha, playing a role in such a culturally rich production was an honor and a challenge. The series demanded that she step out of her comfort zone and embrace a language and culture different from her own. Her ability to rise to the occasion is a testament to her versatility as an actress.
Challenges of learning a new language
Learning Yoruba was no walk in the park for Akpotha. The tonal nature of the language meant that even slight variations in pronunciation could change the meaning of a word.
This required her to pay close attention to detail and practice consistently.
To prepare, Akpotha worked closely with language coaches and immersed herself in Yoruba culture.
She listened to Yoruba songs, watched movies, and practiced daily with native speakers. Her goal was not just to learn the language but to embody the character fully.
“I didn’t want to sound like someone who had just memorized lines. I wanted to sound like a queen, someone who truly belonged to the Yoruba culture,” she explained. Her dedication paid off, as her performance has been praised by both fans and critics.
Testament to nollywood’s growth
Akpotha’s journey in Seven Doors highlights the evolving nature of Nollywood. The industry is no longer just about entertainment; it is about telling stories that resonate on a deeper level.
Productions like Seven Doors push actors to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and deliver performances that leave a lasting impact.
The actress’s ability to learn a new language and adapt to a culturally different role sets a new standard for excellence in Nollywood.
It also reflects the industry’s commitment to authenticity and cultural representation.
Inspiring other actors
Akpotha’s experience serves as an inspiration for other actors. It shows that with determination, hard work, and the right support, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Her success in Seven Doors proves that pushing boundaries can lead to personal and professional growth.
Conclusion
Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha’s portrayal of an Igbo queen in Seven Doors is a shining example of dedication and versatility.
Her willingness to learn Yoruba and immerse herself in the culture demonstrates her commitment to her craft.
As Seven Doors continues to captivate audiences, Akpotha’s performance stands out as a testament to the power of hard work and cultural representation in storytelling.
Read Also: MOVIE REVIEW: Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors stunning blend of culture, spirituality
