Young child actress Livia Maria is back in the spotlight, this time, bringing all her energy to the exciting universe of “ Once – The Musical”. After enchanting audiences as Lavender in “ Matilda – The Musical”, Livia now gives life to Ivonka , a captivating character in a story of love and music.
“ Once ” tells the story of a musician in Dublin whose life is transformed when a Czech immigrant becomes involved in his musical journey. In this charming setting, Livia Maria plays Ivonka , the protagonist’s daughter, bringing her intelligence and wit to the stage.
At just 11 years old, Livia Maria already has an impressive artistic background, including participation in television productions, award-winning short films and even on the program “ Masterchef Junior 2022”. His multifaceted talent, which ranges from acting to singing and dancing, promises to shine even more in “ Once – The Musical”.
Based on the acclaimed Irish film of the same name, “ Once – The Musical” promises to move audiences with its powerful soundtrack, including the iconic song “ Falling Slowly ”, winner of the Oscar for Best Original Song. Prepare to be enchanted by Livia Maria’s versatility and talent in a story that promises to touch the hearts of all viewers.
Livia, you play Ivonka in “ Once – The Musical”, a play that has won over the public with its moving story. What has it been like for you to bring this special character to life?
It’s a fun and learning experience. Ivonka is a character younger than me and so I enter the stage with a joyful energy and it’s really good !
You began studying theater in 2018 and have already accumulated a variety of experiences on stage and screen. What attracts you most about acting and how do you see your evolution since you started on this journey?
I like playing characters that are different from my personality, for me it’s always a challenge, so when I’m going to play a character I’ll study it and try to find out more about it. And I really enjoy this process of studying to play different characters. I feel that each experience is an evolution and that I have a lot to learn, and I have been evolving with the help of my teachers.
In addition to acting, you also sing and dance. How do these different forms of artistic expression complement each other in your life and work as an actress?
Singing and dancing is very important to musical theater. Dancing brings me better knowledge of my body, a feeling of well-being.
In “ Once – The Musical”, Ivonka engages in a songwriting journey with the main characters. How did you prepare to play this musical aspect of the character?
We had rehearsals and my singing teacher helped me a lot, but it’s incredible to be in the middle of them all playing instruments, dancing and performing. Once brought me a lot of learning.
You had the opportunity to join the cast of TV shows, short films and even a musical like “ Matilda ”. What do you enjoy most about each type of project and how do you choose your roles?
The roles are generally chosen by producers according to the profile they need. Each project is a different experience. Matilda was incredible, where I had the pleasure of playing Lavander which was a lot of fun. Cinema is very different from theater, because we record the same scene several times from different angles. I love making movies.
“ Once ” is based on an award-winning and highly acclaimed film. What was it like for you to enter the world of this film and bring your own interpretation to the stage?
As I told you, when I found out about my character I immediately went looking for the film to watch and my acting teacher Matheus helped me a lot with studying.
You participated in the program “ Masterchef Junior 2022”. What was this experience like for you and do you believe that skills like this in the kitchen can influence or complement your artistic career?
Yes, it was another incredible and challenging experience because I had to deal with time. I believe that the skill of cooking is like Art, it is a moment of expression in each dish made. For me, cooking and creating dishes is a moment of relaxation.
The musical “ Once ” is known for its emotional songs, including “ Falling Slowly ,” which won an Oscar. What is your favorite song from the musical and why is it special to you?
“Gold”, because when they play and stamp their feet on the floor. I feel an emotion inside my chest that I can’t even describe. Is too beautiful!
In addition to acting, you are also involved in social projects, such as donating clothing items to needy children. How do you see the role of artists in social responsibility and how do you seek to contribute to the community?
My family contributes to Cancer hospitals and I am always donating clothes and toys. I think it’s very important for artists to do this type of work, because I know that we also influence other people to do it and if everyone does a little, we can help a lot.
Looking to the future, what are your next steps in your artistic career and what are your dreams and goals for the coming years? Are there any particular roles or projects you’re looking forward to exploring?
Yes, I would like to participate in series and I will continue studying so that when opportunities arise I am ready for tests or auditions.
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