At just 10 years old, São Paulo-born actress Dandara Arcebispo has been gaining increasing prominence on Brazilian television and film. Currently airing on TV Globo’s 6 p.m. soap opera, Êta Mundo Melhor, where she plays Jasmin—Samir’s (Davi Malizia) best friend—the young actress has already amassed significant roles on the big screen, including a leading role in the feature film Clarice Vê Estrelas, a production by Letícia Pires with Bruno Gagliasso, as well as appearances in O Pai da Rainha de Angola and O Roubo do Cão.
Dandara, you’re only 10 years old and you’re already on television, in movies, and in so many projects. What do you love most about acting?
What I love most about this world is the magic of make-believe. Whether it’s a fictional story or not, with or without mythical elements, there’s always a hint of imagination and magic!
In Êta Mundo Melhor, you play Jasmin, Samir’s best friend. What was it like creating this friendship on screen, and how did you bring your own experience of friendship to the character?
It was wonderful! The actor who plays Samir, Davi Malizia, and I connected right away and became inseparable!
You also starred in a film, Clarice Vê Estrelas, which was discovered by Bruno Gagliasso. What was it like receiving this invitation and discovering that you would be starring in such a special film?
I LOVED IT! Being faced with such a dream career was incredible. I knew this was where I was meant to be and that many projects were yet to come!
Besides acting, you love reading, drawing, writing, and listening to music. Do these other passions also influence the way you create characters and bring stories to life?
Yes, very much so! My personal tastes greatly influence me and my characters.
K-pop is a big part of your musical tastes. If you could choose, would you like to act or sing in a project related to this universe?
I think I would be a K-pop idol and actress, like Jisoo from BLACKPINK!
In film, you’ve played very different roles, including Clarice, Telminha/Zuri, and Luciana. Which of these characters resonated with you the most, and why?
I think Clarice, because this film is very touching, educational and really touched me.
What have you learned most from being so young and already working with big names in television and film? Have any pieces of advice or lessons stuck with you?
I learn a lot from actors. Something I always take with me is the importance of focusing and being productive on set. Right now, I can’t think of any specific advice (laughs).
How do you envision your career in the future? Would you prefer to continue acting in soap operas, invest more in film, or even experiment with music and other artistic forms?
I believe I’ll follow two paths: cinema and music! (Detail: I like K-pop so much that, right now, I’m listening to K-pop!)
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