Matheus Sampaio experiences forbidden love on stage in “Libélula”

Luca Moreira
9 Min Read
Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)
Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)

Known for his role as Ivan in Record’s Amor Sem Igual, Matheus Sampaio , now 17, reinvents himself on stage. In the play Libélula, directed by Luccas Papp , he plays Filipe, a young seminarian who falls in love with José (Henry Cechini ) on the eve of his partner becoming a priest. The play, which addresses love, faith and self-discovery, is being performed at Teatro Itália, in São Paulo, from January 18 to February 22. For Matheus, the role represents a great challenge and a new step in his artistic career.

You won over the audience as little Ivan in Amor Sem Igual and now you take on an intense role as Filipe in Libélula. How was this transition from the world of soap operas to the stage for you, and what has theater taught you about your art?

Even though it is related to cinema and theater, it is very different! The contact with the audience, and the direct sequence of a script lasting 1 hour and 40 minutes, for example, without stopping and at the same time making the audience embrace the play and buy into the idea is much more demanding. Theater teaches that the delivery of the character is direct and in that same moment. Making the audience fall in love with a soap opera is easier than captivating the entire audience in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. It was an incredible experience!

Playing Filipe was one of the biggest challenges of your career, especially because it deals with sensitive and emotional topics. What motivated you most to take on this role and how did you prepare to deliver all the emotion it demands?

It was a completely different experience and out of my comfort zone, but at the same time, very rewarding to be able to tell a beautiful story that the audience can identify with. Filipe is a strong and warrior character, totally determined and a bit of a heartthrob. He brings this relaxed and slightly comical side to the play. I always tried to fit into his story and connect what we had in common so that we would be closer and it would be easier to deliver the role!

You mentioned that the first gay kiss on screen was challenging. What was the process like of working on the naturalness and depth of this moment, which was so significant for the story and for the audience?

I had a lot of conversation with the actor who plays José in the play. And since we were paired together, I felt more comfortable knowing that it was a challenge for him too. And we decided that we would tell this story in the best and most beautiful way possible. But I confess that to get to this result, there were many, many rehearsals.

Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)
Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)

The relationship between Philip and Joseph is marked by pure love, but also by conflicts with religion and the search for happiness. How do you personally see this duality that the play addresses?

It was very interesting that the play was set in a seminary and at the same time, I, Matheus, am Catholic. So I believe that because I have lived in church since I was a child, with priests and altar boys, it was easier to put myself in the shoes that both of them face. There are stories of love, of seminary, of church … But a story that connects everything at the same time is hard to find. We left the cliché and achieved a difference in the artistic world.

Filipe and José experience a love at first sight that grows over time. What was the most exciting or challenging part of playing this kind of genuine connection?

True and pure love, the desire to really get to know each other. They are more than a couple. They are friends who fall in love and seek to build stories and live moments together. Nowadays, some people stay with others just for the sake of it, because they are pretty, to be funny!! But these two live a very beautiful meeting of souls.

You mentioned Selton Mello as a great role model. What aspects of his work or career inspire you the most, and how does this influence the actor you are becoming?

Through many experiences watching documentaries and interviews with him since he was little, I could see that I was connected to him in every aspect. From getting discouraged and wanting to give up when we were out of work, to really enjoying what he does and becoming a great actor and director. Which is one of my biggest dreams too.

Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)
Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)

Leaving Rio Claro to dedicate yourself to art in São Paulo was a big change in your life. What does this journey represent for you and how do your roots continue to influence your work and choices?

It was a bit difficult, I was away from my father and my family, but at the same time I knew I was on the right path. In São Paulo the market is much bigger and the opportunities are great.

With such diverse roles and projects in theater, film and TV, what do you still dream of doing in art? Is there any type of character or story you want to play in the future?

I say that “we don’t choose art, it chooses us.” I’ve always been passionate about theater, cinema, and soap operas. I believe that we all have a gift and a path to follow. When we find what we love and what guides us, everything becomes lighter and easier. I can’t see myself doing anything else. “Those who do what they love will never have to work.”

I have always been inspired by action actors, such as Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham , Tom Cruise, among others. My dream is to be able to act in big international suspense and action films. I am sure that it will come true, because God does not put dreams in our hearts that we cannot achieve!

What are your expectations for the films “The Last Episode” and “An Elephant’s Notes”? What can you tell us about your roles in these films?

I can’t give too many spoilers about the characters, but both Erik and Dumbo were characters that left a big impression on me in my life as Matheus and in my career as an actor. We always learn new things when we bring characters to life. I have huge expectations for the two films that will be a hit and a turning point in my life. Everything I’ve done and dedicated myself to is still in the bag. When everyone has the opportunity to see me acting, I have faith that new doors will open up.

Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)
Matheus Sampaio (Março Brozzo)

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