From the enchanting city of Guimarães in Northern Portugal to the vibrant stages of London, Bruna Sampaio’s journey in the performing arts has been nothing short of magical. Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal, imbibed in her a sense of safety and warmth. But it was ballet, discovered at the age of four, that set the stage for a life immersed in the arts.
A Ballet Prodigy Emerges
Bruna’s early life was punctuated by the graceful and demanding moves of ballet. Training with the Royal Academy of Dance, she consistently advanced to higher levels, a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion. Her interactions with teachers from London also planted the seed of curiosity about the country.
The Allure of Theatre
As Bruna aged, her love for ballet was accompanied by another discovery: theatre. By 12, she was already involved in theatre classes, a decision that culminated in her move to London at 17 to study Theatre Arts. For Bruna, being on stage was transformative, sparking a vitality and contentment she felt nowhere else. This was not just a hobby but a lifelong commitment.
A Support System Like No Other
Behind the bright lights and curtain calls lies a robust support system. Bruna owes much of her success to her parents, who, unlike many, never forced traditional professions upon her. Instead, they celebrated her passions, investing in her education in both the performing arts and academia. Her brother, an aeronautical engineer, remains another pillar of strength, always available with advice or support.
London, Acting, and Lessons Learned
Acting in London, especially portraying a 1930s mobster in “Arturo Ui,” was a transformative experience for Bruna. This role, initially a challenge due to its gender dynamics, soon became her most cherished performance. But it wasn’t without its humorous learning curves. Bruna once believed that success in the industry was contingent on mastering an American accent, leading to countless hours on YouTube trying to perfect it. It was only later that she realized the industry’s need for diverse voices and accents.
The Science Fiction Adventures
2023 saw Bruna taking on two simultaneous roles in science fiction plays. In “Endings,” a part of Ecléctica, she played Chryssie, exploring the dynamics of a space expedition crew. In “Coordinates,” a part of the One Act Festival at Chain Theatre, Bruna portrayed Tolisa, an astronaut navigating space’s mysteries. Currently, she’s diving into the world of film, bringing her theatrical expertise to the silver screen.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those looking to break into the world of performing arts, Bruna has a treasure trove of advice. She emphasizes the importance of training, meditative introspection, physical comfort and expressiveness, and the value of a good portfolio. Collaboration, she believes, is the cornerstone of the creative process. Moreover, she distinguishes the skill sets required for theatre, where exaggerated motions and real-time audience engagement are paramount, from those for TV or film, where subtlety and camera-awareness dominate.
When asked about the ethos that drives her, Bruna shared the inspiration behind a potential “kindness movement,” emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in a world rife with invisible struggles.
Final Thoughts
In an industry marked by its challenges, Bruna’s journey stands as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a robust support system. As she continues to shine, her story serves as a beacon for countless others dreaming of their spotlight.
For those looking to follow her captivating journey, Bruna can be found online at www.brunalisasampaio.com or on Instagram at @brunalisasampaio.
