Mojisola Kareem-Elufowoju is an award-winning director and founder of Utopia Theatre, an African Theatre company based in Sheffield which aims to support emerging artists and inspire the next generation. Prior to founding Utopia Theatre, Mojisola was a successful human rights lawyer. She then returned to university in her 40s, studying theatre performance at York St John University.
Something in Yorkshire that makes you smile?
The stunning landscape and a sense of tranquillity that can be found right across the county. I love the outdoors, especially walking and running. It’s fantastic being able to work and live in Sheffield, a city with such close proximity to nature and a sense of community. The artistic community is a supportive and close-knit one too, and being here makes me feel part of something much bigger. People are friendly, with a great sense of humour.
A place you love to eat.
Mamadukes on Norfolk Row. It offers a nice, cosy atmosphere with amazing food and great service from attentive staff. It’s a fantastic city centre spot which works really well for both work catch-ups and time with friends and family.
A place to go to with friends.
I love films and usually take friends to Showroom Cinema. It has a lovely, relaxing vibe to eat and drink as well as watch films. I love to support the breadth of Yorkshire independent businesses and cultural spaces as much as I can - they are the beating heart of our communities.
A childhood memory
A visit from London to York to visit one of my one of my childhood friends in 1989. From stepping off the train I felt like I was walking into history and I recall being amazed by the historic walls. At the time I never thought I would return to York to do a theatre performance degree.
A cultural go-to
Utopia Theatre has been a resident theatre company of The Crucible for several years. It is a privilege to be part of such a well-respected institution and we love being part of this iconic Sheffield cultural space. We’ve been working in partnership to make theatre much more inclusive. Our storytelling means we are not afraid to highlight important themes that educate as well as entertain. It is my belief that this collaborative work further supports The Crucible to become even more of a Yorkshire ‘cultural go-to’.
Inspiration outdoors
At every opportunity I get, I head out to the Yorkshire Dales. My love of walking and exploring the great outdoors mean that I am very happy to trek for miles. This hugely helps me to clear my head and refresh my thinking. My love of all things arts and theatre means that I do have a hectic schedule most of the time, so this opportunity to be in nature helps me to reset.
A place for indulgence
Mercure Sheffield St Paul's Hotel & Spa. This brilliant space is a fundamental part of the cultural quarter in Sheffield and offers plenty of scope for treats and celebrations with family, friends and colleagues. I love being able to either indulge in a spa treatment or sit in the restaurant eating delicious food while looking at the bustling Winter Gardens. This area of Sheffield has changed so much in recent years and it's great to see it being enjoyed by residents and tourists alike.
A Yorkshire view that inspires
The views both out in the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks are stunning. I enjoy being able to stand and look for miles over lush, green landscapes; it grounds me.
I’m never happier than when…
I’m in the midst of workshops, rehearsals and performances at Utopia Theatre. Many of these include members of the community who have never taken to a stage before. We also stage many of our productions in schools and communities where theatre has not traditionally been accessible. It’s my mission to widen participation and engagement in all corners of Sheffield as I believe that culture, theatre and creative storytelling really can be the driver to raising aspirations and achievements.
Three words to sum up ‘Your Best Yorkshire Life’
Welcoming, peaceful, active
Utopiatheatre.co.uk
