Ayo Fawole: 'How do you love a woman?'

By Lekan Olujinmi

“The Diary of Black Men - How Do You Love Black Woman?"  is an exciting and tantalizing theatrical production that has played to sold-out audiences in America and England for nearly a quarter of a century.

Written by Houstonian Thomas Meloncon, this choreopoem has stood the test of time and is the longest touring and most successful stage play in Black theatre history. 

Ayo Fawole playing The Lover, is an accomplished actor and spoken word artist. Ayo has credits that include BBC Television's The Quarter Mass Experiment, Eastenders & ITV's The Bill etc. 

Ayo did your Nigerian parents support you going into the entertainment business?  

Yes, I had both moral and emotional support from my parents.

What does theatre and the Arts mean to you? 

A platform to enjoy life and share experiences with other people. Satisfaction, adrenalin, fulfillment - all that and more... it means everything to me.

Name one thing your life experiences have taught you, which you would like to teach others?  

The truth will set you free...it makes life easier. No one can have you up if you tell the truth.

Who is your current favourite music icon and why?  

Sting. I like his music-feel, good music that allows you to let go. Very expressive music, I like his voice, the sound. 

What are your plans for the rest of the year? 

I plan to move to LA and get into the American film  and theatre industry, establishing my name in the global market.

Do you think that Black Brits find themselves in the same positions socially and economically as their American counterparts?  

No way! There is a glass ceiling here...what more can I say?

What advice would you give to young actors and theatre producers trying to get in the business?  

Always remember why you started and what drew you to the Art. Enjoy your work and have fun doing it. Respect yourself and respect others.

The play or choreopoem is obviously written from a African American male perspective, how can the issues be relevant to other cultures too?  

Men experience the same issues throughout different cultures and as we move through this millennium the lines of cultures have become more blurred. How do you love a woman?

The Diary Of Black Men - How Do You Love A Black Woman? Why do you think it has stood the test of time? 

The issue is always going to be relevant, you will always find an audience that want to watch it and have an insight into the Black male mind.   

What impact do you think The Diary Of Black Men will have on its "new young audience"? 

Educational, they will have a deeper understanding of relationships and the impact on their decisions.

What kind of reactions have you got from friends and how are they showing their support?  

Well, they're all coming to watch it. It is an amazing experience and they want to be part of it.