Photo credit to Canaan Ugwum

What is your name, how old are you and where are you currently performing/working?

My name is Ifekwem Johnson Ugochukwu. I am 23 years old and I am currently working with Circus Zyair in the United Kingdom.

Where did you grow up? What is your background with contortion?

I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria

What got you interested in Contortion to begin with?

I just started doing it without even knowing what it was. I was born flexible and I’ve been doing few tricks unintentionally sometimes while playing even before I heard the word contortion. I heard the word contortion for the first time when I was 18 years old.

How long have you been performing?

I have been performing for four years.

What have been your biggest challenges as a performer?

When I started performing back in Nigeria, I wasn’t getting enough gigs but now I work with a circus and currently touring the UK.

What or which performance was most memorable to you?

My first performance in the UK, it was at Christ church.

How would you describe your performance style?

My performance is mixture of dislocation/ bone breaking, twisting, a little bit of African dance, front bend and a little bit funny.

Are you performing with a show or solo currently?

I am a soloist in the show

Do you have a coach currently?

Never really had a coach. I just learn from different people and watch videos on YouTube and Instagram.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career?

If this is what I want to do, I should give it my all.

What does your daily/weekly training schedule look like?

2 to 3 hours a day, 5 days a week.

What advice would you give young people trying to get into performing?

Consistency is key

What is a trick that you’re trying to learn at the moment? How is it going?

Currently working on my front bend

What or who is your biggest inspiration?

I use to look up to contortionist that has gone pass my level but now I just feel like I’m good to make a difference

What is contortion to you?

It’s my hobby that turned to be my job

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