Island Vibes Magazine

Introducing Shyko Amos: A Chat With a Rising Star

Posted on 25. Aug, 2009 by admin in Arts and Culture

By Zahra Gordon

Just as she completes her role as Ti Moune in the London hit, “Once On This Island,” IVM sat down for a quick chat with the up and coming actress, Shyko Amos. Amos, who boasts Guyanese roots and a BA Honors in Politics from Queen Mary’s University of London, is a small woman with large dreams.

How did you make the jump from a politics degree into theatre?

I didn’t make a jump; I just did both at the same time. We limit ourselves and I was lucky enough to have family who were like yes, you are talented, but you’ve got a brain too so use it. I’ve been performing since the age of 3. It’s always been a hobby and that’s what I love about my job. It’s not a job, it’s my hobby.

What are some of your other talents/interests and how do you incorporate them into your performances?

I sing, dance and act. In this day and age you have to be multi-faceted so all three skills come into play all the time.

Image courtesy of Shyko Amos

How did you prepare for this role? And how do you prepare for roles usually?

I prepare within the rehearsal process working with the director, the choreographer and the other actors. And of course, learn my lines

Who are some of the people that inspire you?

Michael Jackson. He was the consummate entertainer. It’s impossible to pin him down to one thing. His talents had no boundaries.

Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

I want to have won both an Olivier and a Tony award and then be on my way towards an Oscar. I’m always dreaming.

What advice do you have for other young people wanting to get into show business?

It’s not easy. You’ve got to be really passionate, really focused, train as much as you can and do as much performing as you can to learn your craft. It’s funny me giving advice because I’m still really at the beginning myself.

Amos may be at the beginning of her career, but she’s definitely gotten a great head start. Her most significant role has been as a member of the “Mamma Mia” cast and the performance she says gives her the most pride is performing at Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 50th birthday celebration. Amos also mentioned that she has a passion for social justice, though she did not care to elaborate. But did elude that there will be more to talk about after her next role!

“Once on This Island” was directed by Susie McKenna and ran from July 24 to August 16 at the Hackney Empire, London.

For clips from the performance and reviews of Amos’ performance check these out:
Review: The UK’s “The Stage”

Trailer:

Behind the Scenes:

Zahra Gordon is a contributor to Island Vibes Magazine and writes about Caribbean culture and entertainment. For comments, please feel free to contact her at zahra@islandvibesmag.com.

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