At just 9 years old, Sophie Figueiredo Soriano takes a significant step forward in her artistic career by lending her voice to the character Lilo in Disney’s highly anticipated live-action Lilo & Stitch. Making her debut as a voice actress, the young Brazilian actress and voice actress stands out by bringing emotion and authenticity to the iconic role, in one of the biggest releases of the season. Sophie, who has already demonstrated talent in other works, is now experiencing a special moment by playing the protagonist of a story that has captivated generations.
Sophie, you recently lent your voice to the character Lilo in Disney’s new live-action film, Lilo & Stitch, but you weren’t even that familiar with the story yet. What was your favorite part of voicing and what was the most memorable part of the film?
So when I found out I was going to be the voice of Lilo, I went straight to watch the movie to understand the story. When I went to the studio, it was really cool. What I liked most about it was singing.
Lilo is a character who is practically your age in the film. Do you feel like you have any characteristics in common with her?
I think one of the characteristics I have in common with her is the fact that she wants to be with her family, and also the little things she does.
Just like actress Maia Kealhoa , who made her film debut, this was also your first job as a voice actor — and you did very well! What was the biggest challenge during the recording? I heard that they even had to tickle you to help you laugh in the scene!
The reactions were certainly very complicated, especially the laughter.
Márcio Simões is a well-known voice actor with a career spanning over 39 years! What was it like sharing the studio with him and what else did you learn?
So, we didn’t record together because it could get in the way, but I had the opportunity to meet him and I loved it, he’s wonderful. We recorded separately, each at our own time.
In addition to dubbing, you take theater classes and have participated in several plays at Fazart , a theater school in Rio de Janeiro. What is your favorite part of the classes and what has been the greatest lesson that theater has taught you?
I love the affection they have for me. I also really like working there, because we are not ashamed and we learn better. I have been learning daily with them. I love Aunt Grazi, Aunt Anna Aguilino , Aunt Laís and Uncle Caio.
In addition to Lilo & Stitch, you just played Nala in the play The Lion King, which is also an adaptation of another Disney classic. What was your experience with this character like?
I loved playing Nala . I was so happy when I found out, because I really wanted to play her. It was a little difficult to memorize the phrases and movements with Simba, but once we got used to it, it got better.
Sophie, like all children, you are still studying, right? How is it to balance your studies with your artistic career? Do your classmates like having Lilo’s voice actress in the class?
So, we have to deal with schoolwork, right? My friends were very happy when they found out. Everyone came to talk to me. I want to be an actress, and for now I’m managing to do both.
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