Valentino Richard Kabenge, a Ugandan dancer and actor, is set to grace the grand stage in Lagos, Nigeria this weekend for an acting talent exhibition.
He was selected along with five others to participate in the talent showcase organized by An Actors Playhouse, an acting academy established by renowned Nollywood actress Stella Damasus.
Despite being widely recognized as a Latin dancer and choreographer, particularly for his popular show "Dance with Valentino" on NTV, Valentino has dedicated years to refining his acting abilities.
Having enrolled in Stella's acting masterclass last year through online studies, he regards the esteemed Nigerian actress as his primary childhood inspiration.
"Growing up I used to watch a lot of Nigerian movies on Top TV this is why I sought out acting. Stella is one of the actresses that I admire. I especially loved her movies Romantic Attraction, Real love and Behind Closed Doors. I used to narrate her movies in primary school,” he said.
Valentino reminisces about watching Nigerian films on Top TV during his formative years, which fueled his passion for acting.
He fondly recalls narrating Stella's movies during his primary school days. Upon his arrival in Nigeria, Valentino expressed his excitement at meeting Stella for the first time, describing it as a dream come true.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am in the presence of greatness, the legendary Nollywood’s @stelladamasus and I still don’t have the perfect reaction yet,” he posted on Instagram
The talent showcase is scheduled for Saturday, June 15th, 2024, in Lagos. Valentino and his fellow performers will have the chance to showcase their talents and connect with prominent industry figures, including Directors, Producers, Agents, and Casting Directors.
Valentino views this opportunity as a gateway to potential collaborations and projects in Nigeria. He admires the assertiveness of Nigerians and aims to expand his brand in Nigeria while also inviting Nigerian artists to Uganda.
“I look at this as an opener for different collaborations and projects in Nigeria.I admire the Nigerians because of their assertiveness and how they go all out. My ambition is to create and extend my brand to Nigeria and to invite some of them to Uganda,"Valentino says.
In addition to acting, Valentino aspires to collaborate with renowned figures in the Nigerian music scene, such as Yemi Alade, Davido, and Angelique Kidjo.
Having appeared in several prominent music videos, Valentino is eager to explore new creative ventures.
We wish him the best of luck!
