By Milcah Tanimu
Onyinye Odokoro, known for her roles in *Domitilla: The Sequel*, *Adire*, *Unwanted*, and the upcoming Netflix series *Baby Farm*, transitioned from studying nursing to full-time acting after her social media monologues attracted Nollywood producer Mimi Bartels. This pivotal moment launched her career in the Nigerian film industry.
Actors in Nollywood find roles through auditions, recommendations, or direct offers from producers and directors. Auditions can be extensive, ranging from open calls with long waits to closed sessions with fewer candidates. In some cases, actors might be offered roles without auditioning.
The audition process in Nollywood varies. Open calls can involve waiting for hours, while closed auditions are more selective but still competitive. Actors may be asked to perform monologues or read excerpts from scripts, known as “sides.”
Once cast, actors sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before receiving the full script. Preparation involves reading and analyzing the script to understand the character and their interactions. This is followed by a table read with fellow actors, and sometimes rehearsals, especially for complex scenes.
Filming begins with hair and makeup, followed by the actual shooting. If an actor falls ill or becomes unavailable, production might pause or the role may be recast, but actors are generally not financially responsible for such issues.
Odokoro highlights the differences between Nollywood and Hollywood, noting that Hollywood productions offer more structured schedules and better conditions. Hollywood typically follows a Monday-to-Friday workweek with weekends off, while Nollywood often has less predictable schedules.
Salaries in Nollywood vary. Established actors may command higher fees, but newcomers might earn as little as ₦15,000 for a role. The high cost of living in cities like Lagos adds to the financial challenges.
For those aspiring to join Nollywood, Odokoro advises seeking mentorship, pursuing the craft with genuine passion, and accepting roles that offer visibility despite modest pay. Success in Nollywood demands dedication and a true love for acting, not just the allure of fame.
Being a working actress in Nollywood presents both challenges and rewards. With perseverance and commitment, aspiring actors can achieve fulfilling careers in the Nigerian film industry.
