Opheligh, a musician in lockdown

Who is Opheligh?

Hello. Basically I like to define myself as an inspired villager. Otherwise, I am a Franco-Cameroonian expatriate based in Grand-Bay, whose main activity is music as a singer, guitarist and teacher. I am also a passionate domestic craftswoman (sewing, DIY, DIY natural care ...).

How long have you been living in Mauritius?

I have been staying on the island for over 2 years.

What brings you here?

With my husband who is Mauritian, we decided to settle in his native land.

You like going out, meeting people, you seem very active. How do you manage this period of confinement?

Indeed, due to the welcoming culture of Mauritians and my activity as a musician linked to entertainment, moments of conviviality and human sharing flow from the source.

However, the health crisis has upset the agendas of artists and forces us to unemployment. Admittedly, it is a difficult time, but I like to keep my positive vibe as a villager which flourishes very well in the Mauritian environment. Budgets are limited. So this is the opportunity to go pick bred Mouroum, to do more domestic crafts, to take your time, to appreciate the present ... Ziloise style. Lately, I've seen cows walk past my alley. I was so playful.

Also sometimes, I share some insights from my activities on social networks.

Have you also started making your own reusable sanitary napkins?

I had known the alternative for a long time. I was aware that my consumption of disposable towels was not in line with the principle of eco-responsibility. Each start of the cycle was a reminder to make some. But for convenience, I would go to the supermarket to buy myself another packet of disposables.

Ultimately, it was the confinement restrictions that forced me to urgently produce some for my personal use. I was running out, when it was not my letter to be able to do my shopping.

How do you find the music scene in Mauritius?

Maurice abounds in excellent artists. From simple intimate organic performance to high sound quality scenes with powerful lighting effects, the experiences there can be just extraordinary.

Who are the must-see artists of the island for you?

Ayo. There's too much! Gérard Bacorilall made me want to learn Creole with "Viv en semblan". Kaya is a symbol of mystical order for Mauritius and Mauritianism.

I am a fan of Jason Heerah and the musicians of Otentik Groove. This is my vibration. Reggae from The Prophecy, Blakkayo ....

In sega, Clarel Armelle is jealous of me. We must also quote Désiré François with Cassiya. And of course the king of the atmosphere Alain Ramanisum and his queen Laura Beg. Without forgetting Linzy Bacbotte, she is the vocal diva live.

I am also thinking of the Thomas family, guitarist Patrick Desvaux ... Emmanuel Desroches is very strong. Emlyn Marimootoo has a vibrant and personal universe. Pop artist Annega dares her own musicality. Percussionist Shakti puts you in a trance.

And all the same, there are the phenomena of emerging young music from the underground like Bomboklak that we cannot ignore. So, there's Big Frankii too ...

In short, there are too many. I forgot it for sure.

What do you prefer about the island?

Here too the list is long. I appreciate first of all the Mauritians, through my husband, my in-laws and all the fabulous encounters and friendships that have been offered to me here; the Ziloise atmosphere, the culture of sharing and solidarity, Mauritian resilience; nature, food, music, stray dogs (laughs). In my neighborhood, they are just too adorable.

And I forgot: I love the Mauritian Creole language. It sounds like poetry in my ear and captivates me.

You are vegan, is it easy to eat well when you are on this diet in Mauritius?

Tropical countries are generally vegetable paradises. My diet is mostly vegan and I find it satisfying. But I can't find too much choice in the restaurants ...

You have to know how to prepare your own food.

There is also still a little social pressure during moments of conviviality. Because the consumption of animal products is high in Mauritius. It is not hostile. I think the Mauritians really like to give and to please. It is a happiness, a real generosity. And the special diets are like a surprise in a festive moment when you are enjoying life. For my part, I allow myself "socially" fish and portions of celebratory cakes.