Interviewer: Good day, everyone! Today, we have the privilege of sitting down with the renowned artist Tilahun Gugsa and his daughter. Many of you may recognize Tilahun for his outstanding contributions to Ethiopian plays, TV shows, and advertising. Thank you both for joining us today.
Tilahun Gugsa: It’s a pleasure to be here, thank you for having us.
Interviewer: Tilahun, you’ve had a significant impact on Ethiopian entertainment and advertising. Can you tell us a bit about your journey in the industry?
Tilahun Gugsa: Certainly. My journey in the entertainment and advertising industry has been a long and fulfilling one. I started as an actor in plays and gradually made my way into television and film. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work on projects that address various social issues, shedding light on important topics. In the advertising world, I’ve had the opportunity to create campaigns that resonate with people and promote positive change.
Interviewer: Your contributions to Ethiopian cinema and TV are commendable. How do you view the current state of the Ethiopian film and TV industry?
Tilahun Gugsa: Well, it’s true that our industry has faced its fair share of challenges, but it’s also seen remarkable growth. Ethiopian cinema and TV have come a long way, and I’m optimistic about the future. We have talented filmmakers, actors, and artists who are passionate about telling our stories. The industry still has room for improvement, but it’s heartening to witness the progress.
Interviewer: Your work has certainly been influential in shaping the industry. Now, let’s hear from your daughter. Can you tell us about your experiences growing up with such a renowned artist as your father?
Tilahun’s Daughter: Growing up with my father has been an incredible experience. I’ve always been inspired by his creativity and dedication to his craft. He instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts and the importance of using one’s talents to make a positive impact on society. It’s a privilege to have him as my father and a role model.
Interviewer: Tilahun, can you share some insights into your work on the character Zeru and the TV series you mentioned earlier?
Tilahun Gugsa: Certainly. Zeru is a character I’ve had the pleasure of portraying in a TV series. He’s a patriarch who navigates his family through financial challenges and crises, always striving to provide the best for his loved ones. The series, while comedic, delves into serious subjects like corruption, highlighting the complexities of family life and societal issues. It’s been a rewarding experience to be a part of such a project.
Interviewer: Your work seems to bridge entertainment and social commentary. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to aspiring artists and filmmakers in Ethiopia?
Tilahun Gugsa: To the aspiring artists and filmmakers out there, I would say this: Follow your passion relentlessly, be open to learning and growth, and never underestimate the power of storytelling. Our stories are important, and through our art, we can inspire change and unity in our society.
Interviewer: Thank you both for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and we look forward to seeing more of your exceptional work in the future.
Tilahun Gugsa: Thank you for having us. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss our journey and contributions to Ethiopian entertainment and advertising.
