Issuu

January 2019

Closeup: Freedom in the moment and cherishing experiences were recurring themes in our interview with Chelina.

Catch Up: Festival au Désert Northern Mali hosts one of the world’s revolutionary festivals Page 10

EatUp: Fogo No Chão Addis’s pioneer in the Brazilian cuisine Page 12

04 05 07 08 12 10 Editor’s Letter

Headsup

Thumbsup

January Events Calendar

Followup

Event Review Art in Addis

Eatup

Catchup

15 Closeup

Interview With Chelina

Restaurant Review Fogo No Chão

International Event Festival au Désert

19 24 What’sup

Reelup

Cinema Review

The Shot Bar

The entire LinkUp Addis team would like to wish a Happy Ethiopian Christmas and a Happy New Year. Here we are on our 7th edition of LinkUp Addis. With all the support from our readers, our fans and our partners, we have come a long way to be one of Addis’s biggest media platforms with a reach to hundreds of thousands of people every month. While we are grateful for all your support, our dedication to bringing you what’s best in Addis remains unchanged. As an event media platform, we believe that events are and must be a crucial element in any society. With events, people from all walks of life come together, get to understand one another more and naturally find ways to give the best they have, as individuals, for the common good of the group. And this, we believe, is what our nation needs the most at this moment. We will continue to be the voice of events and event organizers in Addis, and great days are indeed on the way.

Eyob Workineh Editor-in-Chief

Editor in chief: Eyob Workineh eyob@linkupaddis.com

Cover Photo By EthioBrothers Photography Courtesy of Iconic Events

Marketing Director: Eyasu Abdella eyasu@linkupaddis.com

Clothing design by Mafi

Creative Director: Benny Yoseph benny@linkupaddis.com

4 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

01-16, JANUARY2018 • Ecole d'Art Au Village Alliance Ethio-Française, 09:00am

• Ecole d'Art Au Village Alliance Ethio-Française, 09:00am

• Habesha Gena Expo Millenium Hall, 09:00am

• Ethiopia: 100 Beautiful People 100 Beautiful Lives Fendika Cultural Center, 05:00pm

• The Talked about Game Night ‘Quizzards Ramada Addis Hotel, 08:30pm

• Andir 12 Cultural Music Concert Ethiopian National Theatre, 05:30pm • Time Management with Mekdela Mekuria Weg Coffee, 06:00pm - 07:45pm

1 • Breakfast with Santa Sheraton Addis Hotel, 08:30am • Ecole d'Art Au Village Alliance Ethio-Française, 09:00am • Habesha Gena Expo Millenium Hall, 09:00am

• Ecole d'Art Au Village Alliance Ethio-Française, 09:00am

• Christmas Eve Celebration Tikur Anbessa Hospital, 12:00pm

• Mamsha Laphto Mall, 05:30pm

• Habesha Gena Expo Millenium Hall, 09:00am

• Addis Band at Fogo Lounge & Bar Ramada Addis Hotel, 07:30pm

• The Talked about Game Night ‘Quizzards Ramada Addis Hotel, 08:30pm

• Christmas Eve Celebration Tikur Anbessa Hospital, 09:00am

• Learn to Develop an AR Application Using ARCore American Center, 09:00am

• Ethiopian Christmas Eve Dinner Hilton Addis Ababa, 06:00pm

• Gwaguz: A New Social Experience Kuriftu Bishoftu, 02:00pm

• The Greatest Ethiopian Circus Show Intercontinental Addis Hotel, 06:00pm

• Ethiopreneur by Saryan Events Sabegn Concept Store, 04:00pm • Tropixx Pool Party Momona Hotel, 04:00pm • Ethiopia: 100 Beautiful People 100 Beautiful Lives Fendika Cultural Center, 05:00pm • Vibration Station Live Reaggae Music Viking Bar, 09:00pm

6 • Rock Music Festival Viking Bar, 07:00pm

8 • Selam Festival Bahir dar Atse Tewodros Stadium, 04::00pm

• Tikur Az Mood Party Breeze Lounge, 07:30pm • Meklit Hadero’s Concert Alliance Ethio-Francaise, 08:00pm

9 • Positive Thinkers’ Club of Addis Ababa: Session 93 Kaleb Hotel, 03:00pm

10 • Afterwork Premier Business Networking Event Vamdas Entertainment, 06:00pm

• The Talked about Game Night ‘Quizzards Ramada Addis Hotel, 08:30pm

• Opening of Leykun Wondifraw’s Solo Exhibition (painting) Alliance Ethio-Francaise, 06:30pm • Addis Band at Fogo Lounge & Bar Ramada Addis Hotel, 07:30pm

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 5

17-31, JANUARY2018 • Ladies Takeover Again! Face of Addis, 02:00pm

17 • Addis Band at Fogo Lounge & Bar Ramada Addis Hotel, 07:30pm

• The Talked about Game Night ‘Quizzards Ramada Addis Hotel, 08:30pm

21 • D5 Gane Jam ICE Addis, 09:00am

22 • D5 Gane Jam ICE Addis, 09:00am

• D5 Gane Jam ICE Addis, 09:00am

• Addis Band at Fogo Lounge & Bar Ramada Addis Hotel, 07:30pm

• 4th Movie Themed Costume Event & Introducing Sheger Comic Con Viking Bar, 04:00pm • Zoya Party with Electronic Music Olympiakos Greek Club, 10:00pm

• The Talked about Game Night ‘Quizzards Ramada Addis Hotel, 08:30pm

• “Night of Ideas", an evening to discuss "our time” through arts, curated by Contemporary Nights Alliance Ethio-Francaise, 06:00pm

• Movie Night “Les Héritiers" Alliance Ethio-Francaise, 06:30pm

29 6 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

Thumbsup Eyasu A. Ashenafi

Art and Culture Name: Ras Africa

Entertainment Name: Fekat Circus

A quirky little shop. Founded by Osman Mohammed in 1996, Ras Africa is a fashion label that has since been known in Addis for its exotic leather collections of extraordinary quality. Also they have wide selection of Antique products. If you happen to find yourself in Addis Ababa, take an hour to stroll over to Ras Africa to listen to some vinyl, have a cup of coffee with Osman and chat about the art, fashion and music scene.

Fekat Circus, was founded by young Ethiopian jugglers and acrobats. Today it comprises of 30 professional artists who perform in Ethiopia and internationally. Besides staging professional shows, Fekat Circus spreads the circus arts in the capital through its school and outreach programs (in orphanages, private schools and events). Since 2009, Fekat Circus also provides entertainment activities daily at the pediatric ward of the Black Lion Hospital. One of the latest Fekat Circus brand is the “Monthly show”. On the last weekend of each month, anyone can at¬tend this extravagant event that is gaining more and more popularity.

Facebook: /Ras africa designs Location: Bole, ground floor of Adika Building On Google maps? Yes Health Name: Ariti Herbal shop Ariti Herbal is a small private business, established in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 1999, with a license to cultivate, process and distribute a wide range of herbal products for local and export markets. They are also creators of several fragrant essential oils and blends for use in aromatherapy, skin care, inhalation, bath, sauna, etc. They are particularly keen in supplying a wide array of herbal teas and other health ingredients. Their main export items include essential oils from unique gums and resins such as frankincense, myrrh and opoponax. We also produce other essential oils such as eucalyptus, palmarosa, citronella, thyme, rosemary etc. Orders are welcome from anywhere in the world as we deliver products by courier or air cargo. Website: www. aritiherbal.com Facebook: /aritiherbal Tel: +251 (0) 911 645 303/ 406 972 Location: Mickey Leyland Rd On Google maps? Yes

Facebook: /fekatcircus Tel: + 251 (0) 91 139 6121 Location: Piassa, on across Tomocca Coffee, down Arsho Lab next to community police office On Google maps? Yes Bar & Restaurant Name: Oak Bar, ' Quiz Night’ 'Quiz Night' is a weekly, fun, group QandA event hosted at Ramada Addis starting from 8:30 pm at the Oak Bar every Tuesday. Moderated by Mr. Zik from AFRO FM, this event has the power to entertain! The 1st prize: unlimited meat cut with wine or beer at Fogo no Chão: classic Brazilian dinner with a classical live music by 'Addis Band' 2nd prize: one pizza two bottles of beer/ soft drink 3rd prize: 50% discount on beer and soft drinks Facebook: /RamadaAddisAbaba Tel: +215(0) 11 639 3939 Location: Bole, Ramada Hotel On Google maps? Yes Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 7

Follow-up

ART IN ADDIS Eyob Workineh

here was once a time when people were content-enough to have the lousy, third-grade, overcrowded holiday bazaars go as great events. Event goers in Addis are no more in peace with the “normal” events that host everything they expect and nothing more. People these days need something that hosts everything they expect and more. Something creative. Something wild. As the need for diversity and creativity in the theme and structure of events soars by the day, hundreds, if not thousands of event organizers in Addis are striving to host events that satisfy this need. It has become common to see events that experiment with ideas. While some terribly fail in such ventures, some others rise to the heights however unlikely their concepts seem, one of those in this category is Art in Addis. Here is a breakdown.

Photo: courtesy of Art in Addis

For many of us art is for a few ‘chosen’ breed of people called artists. While the rest of us, the artistically unchosen, can only admire only as much as complexity of the art allows us to admire. Now, what if art is for the public. What if any one who wants to create some piece of art, anyone who has never

8 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

touched brush and paint, can actually create some wonderful piece of art. What if we opened the doors of art wide for all? Tinkering with such an experiment is Art in Addis. Conveniently hosted at the first floor of Ambiance, the place that has managed to put itself at the center of community events in Addis, Art in Addis is an event that invites everyone to come and paint. Here is how it works. As one goes into the event venue, one would find several busy hands painting on dedicated canvases trying to copy a prototype in the middle of the room. As complicated as it initially seems to paint, the unflagging support of the mentors who roam around the room helping everyone, the encouraging smiles and words of the fellow table mates, the great, easy-come conversation you would have with total strangers whom you would feel you have known for at least a year, and most importantly, the great wine, finger foods (only God knows how much I ate that day), music and other treats like smiling beautiful faces make it all the more simple to paint. The day’s painting we were supposed to copy was flowers. Not those flowers, those curves on curves on curves, we scratch and sell for Enkutatash. This one

"What if anyone who wants to create some piece of art, anyone who has never touched brush and paint, can actually create some wonderful piece of art"

Photo: courtesy of Art in Addis

was a real artist’s flowers, surrounded by darkness that grows lighter from bottom to top. Throughout the process we were encouraged to try things, we were engaged in conversations around the table (an aspiring painter like I was told me she attended every one of the Art in Addis events; for the love of it). The whole experience was wonderful, and the immense sense of achievement when you finished your painting is tremendous. Of course, I was a little drunk too, much of the wine and little of the art. If you are exhausted from a busy week or month or are just stressed and need some time to really, honestly relax, with no hangovers, try Art in Addis. The only sideeffect will be some paint that stains on your shirt, which you can wash anytime later, but that’s only if you didn’t wear your apron well or if you were unlucky to sit next to a reckless painter, like I was, who sprinkles bits of paint every time his/her brush touches the canvas.

Art in Addis is an event that invites everyone to come and paint

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 9

Catch-up

Festival au Désert Sarah Bushra

Photo By: Alice Mutasa

prawled across the sand dunes deep of the most renowned band from this in the Saharan desert in the northern region – Tinarewen. This group gained part of Mali was where followers of a international recognition partly as a result fabled Festival gather once of their performance in Festival a year. Since 2001 the old au Desert. Acknowledging the "Northern cities Tin Essako, Tessalit, cultural benefit of this event, Mali hosts one together with their French Essakane, and Timbuktu of the world’s were set afire by the lively partners, Tinarewen organized arrangement of music that revolutionary the third Festival au Desert in make up the Festival au Essakane. festivals" Desert. As a site of contested As a primary cultural Festival identity, Northern Mali hosts in Africa, Festival au Desert has one of the world’s revolutionary festivals been a subject of interest for several other that continue to make a statement even – art forms. Documentaries covering the and arguably especially - while in exile. eventful facets of the festival have been made since 2004. Festival au desert started 17 years ago, The Festival has been compared to the but only a few editions has been held in Burning Man, a Western USA phenomenon Mali while the rest were reconstructed in known for its experimental approach in other parts of the world or cancelled at cultivating cultural expressions through last minute due to security threats arising new forms of art. from the region. Adamant followers and Festival au Desert is characteristically participating musicians continue to believe centered on heritage – showcasing of the with an unshakable conviction that the Tuareg culture through music, dance, and following year will be the successful owing to the original location, lifestyle. continuation of the Festival in its home Nonetheless this Festival is open to country. other music cultures and has featured Festival au Desert is a springboard to one performances by renowned Malian artists

10 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

"Festival au Desert’s strong will for existence is a demonstration of the resilience of art and artists standing against violence and disruption."

Photo: www. fabbricaeuropa.net

including Oumou Sangaré and Ali Farka Touré. Its continued existence is a decry against the conflict between the North and South Mali that has been the source of unrest and the extremist group which has used the Malian divide as an opportune gap to enter and spread their propaganda in the region. Causes of instability that has exiled the Festival since 2010 have subsided and organizers are hopeful that the event will soon return to its birthplace. Since then Malian music selections have been drifting the world via Caravan for Peace – a travelling version of Festival au Desertreminding and stirring the world audience to stand against conflict. The Caravan was started in 2015 and is organized in partnership with Festivals in Morocco and Niger – to advocate for peace and tolerance among the Sahel and Saharans. Festival au Desert’s strong will for existence is a demonstration of the resilience of art and artists standing against violence and disruption. The continued visibility of Tuareg culture and its increasing global popularity serves as peaceful resistance against forces that work to erase it. Festival au Desert appears as a bead within the identity fabric of Malian culture – unexpected, obstructing, and eccentric. To be part of it is to stand in solidarity with proud citizens of the world who are fighting for their culture and identity, to be part of the contemporary narrative and beyond.

The Festival has been compared to the Burning Man, a Western USA phenomenon known for its experimental approach in cultivating cultural expressions through new forms of art.

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 11

Eatup

Fogo No Chão Ephratha Kibru

veryone in Addis is familiar with the name and brand Ramada but few are familiar with Fogo No Chão, the Brazilian Churrascaria restaurant located on the 10th floor of the very same place. Much like the rest of the Hotel, Fogo has an elegant design with floor-to-ceiling windows that give a nice view of our wonderful city. The live band plays light music that blends with the background quite nicely. You really do feel like you’re getting your money’s worth. Fogo No Chão is a full dining experience trademarked by Churrascaria, a one-ofa-kind steakhouse consisting of 15 types of meat, all carved right in front of you. Translating the Portuguese, Fogo No Chão means “ground fire”, referring to the method by which the meat is grilled. As Addis’s pioneer in this cuisine, there’s really nothing to compare it to. But since its part of an international brand, Fogo has certain standards to meet. While there is a buffet for starters and dessert, the restaurant’s main courses are steaks. The existence of this buffet also allows vegans, vegetarians, and fasters alike to enjoy their lunch or dinner with enough enthusiasm. The buffet alone

costs 425 ETB per person. If you want the meat cut deal with the house wine, beer, or soft drinks, it’s 975, 875, and 825 ETB per person respectively. The prices are quite expensive for the casual diner but for someone looking for more extravagant options, it seems worthwhile. I was, of course, here to find out. But if the dedication Eyob Kassahun, the Executive Sous Chef, has for food was any indication, I would not be disappointed. I got a plate and helped myself to some of the appetizers. From spicy potatoes to mixed seafood, there was something for everyone. I settled for a light chicken and beef salad along with some fish balls and pita bread. The salad was fresh and crunchy, the Caesar dressing it came with adding much flavor. The beef and chicken were finely diced and well incorporated into the salad with a certain salty and sour taste I couldn’t identify boosting the dish’s character. The pita bread I ate the salad with was very soft and fleshy. The smooth texture just rolled on my tongue, thoroughly absorbing the creamy dressing. The fish balls were interesting as well. Soft yet chewy, they were savory bite sized nuggets of fish. As soon as I finished my appetizers, the

Photo by: Abenezer Geleta (Ras Studio)

" The existence of this buffet also allows vegans, vegetarians, and fasters alike to enjoy their lunch or dinner with enough enthusiasm."

12 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

Location: Bole, 10th floor of Ramada Hotel Service /label: Restaurant Opening Hours: 7 Days a week 05:30 PM - 10:30 PM Facebook: /FogoNoChao. Ramadaaddis Phone Number: + 251 11 639 3939

Photos by: Abenezer Geleta (Ras Studio)

attentive staff cleared the table to make room for the main course. The Demi Chef de Partie’s are the ones that serve the meat cuts and I’d like to think the chef assigned to my table, Kibrom, was the friendliest one. He always respectfully referred to me as Madam and never failed to crack a lighthearted joke whenever he presented me with a different meat cut. It’s service like this that set standards. I was more than pleased. Of the 15 types of meat offered, I tasted 7 of them. I had never experienced anything quite like the churrascaria so I could only hope the taste would be as good as the buildup. First up would be the Lamb Leg. The leg is one of the most muscled parts so the meat on it could become very chewy and rubbery. This lamb leg wasn’t; it had a tender nature about it. The chefs here at Fogo knew what they’re doing. But then again, their trainer Eyob learned from Brazilian Chefs in Dubai. It’s no wonder I was enjoying my meal. Next up was the chicken leg and wing. The leg still had the bone in the chicken but it wasn’t bothersome at all. The meat’s soft nature allowed it to glide right off the bone, onto my fork, and into my mouth. It tasted amazing. But even better was the chicken wing. It was very delicate and creamy. It coated my tongue with a layer of silky umami. It was my favorite. After these three, I had the Tenderloin, Beef Ribbon, Beef Loin, and Beef Sausage. The beef loin and ribbon were both slightly rare, giving me some difference in texture. The beef sausage was soft and fatty while the tenderloin was chewy and salty. I loved it all – but I only had stomach enough for one more dish. It was time for dessert. I had the traditional Brazilian roasted pineapples. This simple dessert was quite effective. Coated in caramelized honey and cinnamon, it was quite sweet. But the pineapple beneath this sugary layer gave the crunchiness that made this roasted dessert worth noting. I absolutely loved it. My night at Fogo No Chão now ended, and I couldn’t have left any more satisfied. From the soothing music and extraordinary service to the mouthwatering meat cuts and sweet pineapples, Fogo impressed me on every front. I could definitely see it become a personal favorite.

"a one-of-a-kind steakhouse consisting of 15 types of meat , all carved right in front of you."

"I’d like to think the chef assigned to my table, Kibrom, was the friendliest one."

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 13

14 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

Closeup

Chelina Leoul Brook

ur beloved Addis Ababa has never been short of artists giving all they have adding more colors of their own to the mix. One of such recent beautiful layers in the music scene is Chelina. Freedom in the moment and cherishing experiences were recurring themes in our interview with Chelina. For her, as new experiences lead to new inspirations, being receptive of the world and "living right here and now" are key to getting it right in art. It is with such inspiration that she recently featured in an exclusive launch of her first album, which she says is her way of giving back to ‘her generation’. LinkUp Addis’s Leoul Brook had an interview with Chelina about her career and approach to art. Who is Chelina? Tell us somethings about yourself. I find it challenging to say a lot about myself, but I can definitely say Chelina is a black woman. Chelina is a music lover. My full name is Chelina Yeshiwondim, and I am a musician. I was born in the southern Ethiopian city of Hawassa. I moved to Addis while I was still a baby, and I lived most of my life here.

You have been in music for a while now and your popularity has been growing. What has changed in your music to set you apart as an artist? It has always been me, there isn’t much difference. Of course, as new experiences, new emotions new styles of music add into my life the way I perform the art [of music] also changes and improves. My new songs sound like 2019 and they have the power to relate to the life we live now in 2019. But I am and will always remain me.

"When I sing or when I write my lyrics, I don’t have an intention; I just want my music to be natural."

What’s your creative process as an artist? Most of the times melodies, then the emotion, then the concepts and then words, then the lyrics come to me. Whenever there is a new idea or inspiration, I play it on my guitar and write my own songs. I go to the studio to share it with colleagues

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 15

Photo By Ethio-Brothers Photography

who would also share with me if there is any new idea. Then we work it out. You just had an exclusive album release at Ambiance, a show of triumph. How do you describe the journey to that? I started working on an album a while back. However, as it happens to many artists in Ethiopia, it was severely challenging to manage the whole process and, ultimately, to find sponsors. So, I wanted to take a while off, and I took the time to gather my energy and resources, and perform on various stages. Finally, I decided, I have to do it now. It still wasn’t an easy journey. It is hard to manage the very different personalities of people; there are other personal and social responsibilities to attend. The responsibility is even harder as a woman, as we also have to go through a psychological journey of winning over accepted stereotypes. The wonderful part about this time is that I produced the album myself in collaboration with my executive producer, who is also my manager. Which means I didn’t have to go out and look for a sponsor. As a result, I have more control over the content of my work, more freedom. How successful was the album launch on December 21?

Photo By Ethio-Brothers Photography

It was Iconic Events who organized the event. In fact, it was a little rushed and we only had one week to prepare. It was supposed to be an exclusive, small listening session with people who are in the art of music. It was also a celebration. I

didn’t expect it to be great, but it was. There was a great turnout, and we had such a wonderful, intimate time. I can say that I had a great night, and I am really glad it happened. There were singers, painters, photographers, designers, actors and actresses, people from all walks of life, and I saw they were all enjoying the music, enjoying the art. I should say Iconic Events did a great job with the organizing. Who is your target audience? Well, my audience is very mixed. A lot of teenagers listen to and love my music, yet people in their 60s and 70s also listen to and love my songs. The reason, I think, is that I do not limit myself in the topics I sing. When I sing or when I write my lyrics, I don’t have an intention; I just want my music to be natural. My spirit is ready to experience what I feel. I do my best. When do you know you have worked on a piece of art good enough to put it out there? What are your standards? As an artist, you know when it is enough. As I work through a song, I can imagine how it will turn out and I can tell if it will work or if it won’t. When it’s good it is good. You just know. Many artists in the industry complain about poor album sales and having to depend too much on concerts to earn an income. What is your thought about that? Personally, I don’t want to

"how I can deliver this work, which I have worked on so hard, to my audience effectively because the real loss would be if I fail to do so." 16 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

"Even God’s words are to do your best today and not to worry too much about what’s to come."

expect anything from outside. I want to keep on giving as long as I live. I don’t know what’s going to happen with my album. I have spent a lot on my album, in the form of cash and energy. My biggest concern is how I can deliver this work, which I have worked on so hard, to my audience effectively because the real loss would be if I fail to do so. In my opinion, with a good deal of perseverance and creativity, everyone eventually earns what they deserve. So I am only concerned about giving what I can, take all it can give and get all the good experience out of it as I go. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I never want to lose my defined purpose. That is the reason I exist as a person. I want to keep loving myself and respecting myself and taking care of myself and having all those enough, so I can give them to others. I don’t want to think about it. I live and think about now. I always ask myself, “How can I be my best self right now? How can I get the best experience I can get right now?” Even God’s words are to do your best today and not to worry too much about what’s to come.a

"The responsibility is even harder as a woman, as we also have to go through a psychological journey of winning over accepted stereotypes."

Any last remarks? Any one you would like to thank or honor?

"There was a great turnout, and we had such a wonderful, intimate time" Album listening party at Ambiance - December 21

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 17

Photo: Vintage Pixels Photography

As always, I want to thank God for all the beautiful things I have in my life. I would like to honor all people everywhere who are doing good things and who are fighting to make the world a better place. With my new album, I am giving back to this time, to this generation. My Generation. To Ethiopia. I hope that people get the positive side of the album and feel as relaxed and happy listening to it as I felt when making it.

What's up

Shot Bar THE

Surafel Solomon

here is a scarcity of choice in this beautiful city of ours. Most of the bars serve the same things in places that feel exactly the same, location being the only variation. Copy-paste-repeat. But given a closer look, Addis has some hidden gems and one of them is The Shot Bar. I was immediately intrigued the moment time I walked through the doors. The Shot Bar is a small storefront with no seats that mainly focuses on serving shots, although they also serve beer for those in need of chasers. One thing I have had to get used to in Ethiopia is that shots are simply hard liquor in a shot glass. The Shot Bar does not conform to this unspoken rule – it flips it on its head. Zola, the owner/manager of the bar who knows and is known by everyone there, tells me giving people an alternative is a huge part of why he established the bar. The bar serves cocktail shots, i.e. the drinks are mixed according to a recipe. I was skeptical, thinking that I would need a lot of these cocktail shots to get me tipsy. Zola reassures me, that won’t be the case. In comes the menu with three sections: • Yummy: with drinks like black Russian and cosmopolitan • Dare: with drinks like Body shot, Leg Spreader and Bob Marley • Deadly: with drinks like Terminator, Mind eraser and Hot Damn

Understandably, I had to try some from each section and personally speaking, I’m a Deadly kind of guy but each section has a lot more to offer than what’s written above so don’t stick to what you know. I suggest you try new things and see how you like it. But there’s much more at play at the Shot Bar than just drinks. We come to what Zola is most proud of - the atmosphere that’s created every night. It’s a self-service bar so there are no waiters running around. There are no seats inside the bar. The bar is small so it won’t hold everyone inside and there is no wall dividing the inside from the outside. The crowd oozes on to the verandah and into the parking lot. The Shot Bar’s stark difference from any other establishment is evident in the simplicity of its size, and unique service. The fact that it is not glitzy or pretentious is what makes it so appealing. Talking more with Zola, I get a clearer picture of the purposefulness of it all. People move around and mingle, creating an easygoing force field. Block parties are regularly organized there and any Thursday, Friday or Saturday already feels like a block party. Zola says it’s only the beginning. I’m going to take his word on that because he was right about me not needing a lot of drinks. My first inebriated interview went well. Thank you, Shots.

Location: Bole, Around Bole High School Service /label: Bar Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 09:00 PM - 03:00 AM Phone Number: + 251 91 137 5621

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 19

Photo by: Abenezer Geleta (Ras Studio)

But there’s much more at play at the Shot Bar than just drinks. We come to what Zola is most proud of - the atmosphere that’s created every night.

Photo by: Abenezer Geleta (Ras Studio)

20 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

What's up Extra

Who Does She

Think She Is? Zoma: Preserving Endangered Art Form

Joanne King

isionary, art curator, and a woman with a mission to preserve and showcase the unique traditional, creative, skills that can be found throughout Ethiopia, Meskerem Assegued is not someone who takes no for an answer. Over 20 years ago, on a visit to the culturally and historically rich northern routes of Ethiopia, Meskerem came across skillfully constructed and handcrafted Ethiopian abodes that were in danger of becoming a lost art form. An integral part of Ethiopia’s heritage, Meskerem was determined to set up a museum to both exhibit and preserve these skills, yet time and time again she was met with brick walls and a seeming unwillingness to share her vision. Already a successful anthropologist and art curator, it would have been all too easy to let her vision dissolve into a distant dream. Yet two decades on, and in collaboration with her artistic partner Elias Sime, Zoma Contemporary Art Museum, school, internet café, and mixed media events center is alive and thriving.

Photo by: www.addisherald.com

As you walk through the gates of the Kindergarten school that is part of the

22 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

sprawling 10,000 meter plus compound in Mekanisa, you are struck by the artistic attention to detail that breathes life into every corner of this verdant educational art space. The outdoor amphitheater has terraced auditorium steps for seating, and the edible vegetable and herb gardens are an integral part of the children’s education here. Powered by biogas from the dairy cows that live alongside the educational spaces, the goats and egg-laying chickens also provide the children with authentic learning experiences about the food they eat and how to prepare it in the kindergarten kitchens. The vegetable gardens are also open to the local community and provide a means of income for female run vegetable stands. As you walk through the terraces, you arrive at the beautifully restored wattle and daub art center that is open to the public for art exhibitions, multimedia displays, presentations and events. Decorated with the motif of the butterfly emerging from the cocoon, Zoma Contemporary Art Space is a gathering place with big things in store for its future. Be sure to make a regular space for it in your calendar if you want to be a part of Ethiopia’s exciting transformation in the making!

Location: Lesotho Street Service /label: Museum Facebook: /Zoma.Museum Website: zomamuseum.org Email: zcac@zcac.net Phone Number: + 251 118 354 262 + 251 942 169 189 + 251 985 240 287

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 23

Photo by: Michel Temteme for The New York Times

As you walk through the gates, you are struck by the artistic attention to detail that breathes life into every corner of this verdant educational art space.

Reel-up

Kidus Tamiru

Cinema Susé Directed By: Isaam Habesha Runtime: 100 min Starring: Isaam Habesha , Zerihun Asmamaw, Mary Pink Susé is about an addict, who has many addictions, loses  his girlfriend because of his addictions, then quits his addictions and gets his girlfriend back. That's the whole story. Sorry for the spoilers. And in case you couldn't surmise it from the summary, the morale of the film is – addictions are bad. Like very, very bad. This film hammers it in so hard it seems more like a parody of anti-drug films than actually sincere. But it doesn't work even as a parody because it's not funny or engaging. I actually missed the dumb, try-hard jokes I hate so much in other movies. It has unlikable, mumbling cretins for protagonists - caricatures of addicts than characters - unrealistic, unrelatable and unnecessary drug use and bad sound. The film would've been better without the heroin, or whatever it is they inject. The characters have enough addictions as it is. In short, I found Susè to have all the appeal and charm of a heroin overdose. 3/10

Somalew Van Damme Directed By: Yeredi Bereka Runtime: 90 min Starring: Henok Wendemu, Rediet Mustefa, Yabsera Getachew Somalew Van Damme is a comedy about an Ethio-Somali guy taking the place (and life) of his identical look-like in Addis Ababa and all the misadventures that follow. Even though some Ethiopian films are much more enjoyable if you don't think much while watching them, this film actually requires it. It works purely as a far-fetched comedy. A very dark comedy at that when considering the stakes involved. The Somalia takes over the life of man who was recently deceased because the guy's family doesn't want his young daughter (who has a heart condition) to find out her dad died (her mother also dies at the start of the film). It's obvious the writers convoluted the hell out of the story just to get a chance to make fun of Somali stereotypes. But stupid plot lines, very shaky cinematography and subtle (read: blatant) racism aside, this film has its moments. The exaggerated acting (the protagonist and his little side comic relief) will get at least a chuckle out you. So as long as you're in the mood for convoluted comedy, funny accents and are not Somali, you'll probably enjoy this movie. 7/10

24 I Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019

Spider Man: Into The Spider-verse Directed By: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman Runtime: 117 min Starring: Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld Spider man: Into the Spider-verse is a superhero film introducing Miles Morales,  a kid living in a parallel universe similar to ours, that becomes the second Spider Man and must learn to fill in the shoes of Peter Parker, the original Spider Man. This film introduces the concept of the multiverse from the comics to the marvel movies. When I first heard they're making this movie, I was sure it was going be another terrible Sony film. Boy was I wrong! Not only is Into the Spider-verse the best Spiderman film, it's one of the best superhero films I've ever seen. Brought to you from the same guys that made the Lego Movie, bringing their signature wit, meta- jokes, and overall hilarity, this movie doesn't just adapt the comics, it brings it to life. With its creative direction, fast pacing, witty dialog, fantastic soundtrack and unique storyline, this film finds the perfect balance between frivolity and sincerity that all comic book movies should strive for. And even with all that, the best part of the movie is the amazing animation. It looks like how you visualize action in comic books as you read them. If you're a comic book or superhero fan, you absolutely have to see this in the cinema. But... the only drawback to this film is, if you're not a comic fan, you'd probably hate it. It's definitely not for everybody. But overall, I can't wait to see it again. 9.5/10

Aquaman Directed by: James Wan Runtime: 143 min Starring: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson Aquaman is an origins story of how Arthur, the eponymous Aquaman, went on to become the King of Atlantis and unite the land and sea worlds. As a big DC fan, I have been consistently disappointed with the direction they have been taking their movies ever since they established the DCEU. They all seemed confused and uninspired in tone and quality. But with Aquaman, finally, they figured out a way to make it work – Just copy Marvel. For instance, a big portion of this movie is just a few typos away from becoming Black Panther. Put Wakanda underwater, replace the battle rhinos with sharks, and switch the protagonist and antagonists and you have 80% of Aquaman. But, you might say all that was in the original comics any way and Black Panther didn’t inspire it. Sure, but there are hundreds of story lines in the comic. The reason they chose this direction was clearly inspired by the Black Panther. But in all fairness, this isn't just a Marvel rip off. It's great that the film turns into an Indiana Jones style adventure for the second act. And best of all, it has fantastic fight sequences. Dare I say way better than any I've seen in the MCU outside of Infinity War. Overall, it's funny, beautifully shot, adventurous but a bit derivative and too long. 8/10

Linkup Addis Ababa January, 2019 I 25