Finding My Voice Through Spoken Word
In a world where words hold the power to transform and inspire, Campos World has carved a space for himself as a spoken word poet and performer. His journey is a testament to the magic of self-expression, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity. As he balances life on stage and in class, Campos’ story reminds us of the importance of believing in one’s craft. In this interview with Ess Waceke (21STARS), Campos shares his story, offering insights into the world of poetry and the impact of believing in one's craft.
Who is Campos World
Campos World, also known as Alfred Musinda, is a passionate poet, spoken word artist, and performing arts enthusiast. With a deep connection to the world of creative expression, Campos uses his art to tell stories, ignite imagination, and showcase the transformative power of words.
Tell us about Hocus-Pocus, your latest piece.
As the name suggests, Hocus-Pocus is a term commonly associated with magic performances. In this piece, I explore the magic of poetry in a satirical way. It delves into how certain things that may seem insignificant at first glance, when observed through a deeper, more thoughtful perspective, reveal themselves as big deals. It's about seeing beyond the surface.
How do you work through creative blocks?
When I hit a creative block, I engage with other creative spaces. This could involve reading novels, watching movies, attending performances, or collaborating with other creatives. I find that surrounding myself with different forms of art helps to reignite my own creativity.
What are you pursuing in university?
I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Studies with IT.
How do you manage being on stage and in class?
Since my course is predominantly practical, with over 80% of it focused on performance, being on stage is an integral part of my learning experience. It feels like a natural extension of what I do in class.
Have you ever missed an exam because of performing?
Yes, there was an instance where I had to miss an exam due to a performance. As a result, I had to retake the exam later.
What is your biggest career achievement so far?
My biggest achievement so far has been having my own production company, Magnifier Production. I’ve also had the privilege of performing on major stages, including the East Africa Poetic Hour battle and many other notable events.
What are your future plans?
In the future, I aim to make a bigger impact in the industry. I want to build a society that appreciates and supports performing arts, and I hope to contribute to the growth and development of the creative community.
Which companies would you love to collaborate with?
There are several companies and productions in the entertainment sector that I admire and would love to collaborate with, including Kaka Empire, Phillit Production, Jiffy Pictures, and others.
What is your dream?
My dream is to have my pieces published and studied in schools. I want to inspire positive changes through the art of poetry and performance, creating lasting impacts on people’s lives and minds.
What would you say to someone wanting to get involved in the creative arts?
I would advise them to believe in themselves and in their abilities. It’s important to create room for learning and growth. The creative journey is continuous, and improvement comes with dedication and persistence.
What is your favorite line from one of your poems?
My favorite line comes from a piece called Welcome to My World:
Dad angekua hai, angekua proud of me...
This line speaks about the progress I’ve made in my creative journey. It reflects on how, when I first started, people doubted me, but now I’m proud of how far I’ve come. It’s a reminder of the growth and achievements I’ve experienced.
How were you introduced to spoken word poetry?
I was introduced to spoken word poetry when I prayed to God for something, and He gave me spoken word. I started writing, and it became a powerful outlet for my thoughts and emotions.
If you could choose a superpower, what would you pick?
If I could choose a superpower, I would pick immortality. It would be incredible to live and experience the world for as long as possible, continually learning and evolving.