1. Overview
José Sá Raposo (born 3 February 1962) is a prominent Portuguese actor and producer, widely recognized for his extensive career spanning theatre, film, and television. He has made significant contributions to the Portuguese performing arts scene, undertaking diverse roles and collaborating with notable directors and companies across various mediums, including traditional Portuguese light comedy theatre, staged productions, musicals, and voice acting.
2. Biography
José Sá Raposo's life story is deeply intertwined with his professional development in the performing arts, beginning in his youth and evolving into a prolific career.
2.1. Early Life and Upbringing
José Sá Raposo was born on 3 February 1962, in Lisbon, Portugal. His formative experiences in the performing arts began early in his life, laying the groundwork for his future career.
2.2. Beginning of Acting Career
Raposo commenced his acting career in 1981, making his debut in children's theatre. He was introduced to the stage by Francisco Nicholson at the Teatro AdHoc, a company he subsequently joined. His early professional journey also included performing in Teatro de Revista (light comedy theatre) at renowned venues such as the Teatro Maria Vitória, Teatro Variedades, and Teatro ABC. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, he co-founded the production company "A Toca dos Raposos" with his former wife, Maria João Abreu, through which they staged several theatrical productions.
3. Acting Career
José Sá Raposo's acting career is marked by his versatility and extensive work across theatre, film, television, and dubbing. He has performed in a wide array of roles, showcasing his adaptability and depth as an actor.
3.1. Theatre
Raposo has a significant and diverse theatre career, participating in numerous productions ranging from classic plays to contemporary works and musicals. He performed in O Processo de Jesus by Diego Fabri at the Teatro da Trindade, and in Ben Jonson's Volpone at Teatro Aberto. He also appeared in O Último dos Marialvas by Neil Simon at Casa da Comédia. His collaborations with esteemed directors include Jean Jordheuil for Germânia 3 by Heiner Müller at the CCB, and André Gago for Os Portas by John Godber at the Teatro Nacional D. Maria II.
His involvement in Musical theatre includes a role in Annie (musical) by Thomas Meehan, directed by A. Cortez at the Teatro Maria Matos. In 2003, he participated in the show Cada Dia Um a Um a Liberdade e o Reino, directed by Jorge Silva Melo. He continued his collaboration with prominent figures like Filipe La Féria, working on A Rainha do Ferro Velho by Garson Kanin at the Teatro Politeama in 2004. More recently, he has been performing in Filipe La Féria's production of La Cage aux Folles (musical), playing the character Zaza Napoli. This musical premiered on 13 June at the Teatro Rivoli and later moved to the Teatro Politeama in Lisbon.
3.2. Film
José Sá Raposo has an extensive filmography, working with various notable Portuguese directors. His film roles include:
- Aqui na Terra (1993), directed by João Botelho
- Corte de Cabelo (1995), directed by Joaquim Sapinho
- Sapatos Pretos (1998), directed by João Canijo
- Os Mutantes (1998), directed by Teresa Villaverde
- Senhor Jerónimo (1998), directed by Inês de Medeiros
- Ganhar a Vida (2001), directed by João Canijo
- Camarate (2001), directed by Luís Filipe Rocha
- Noite Escura (2004), directed by João Canijo
- A Costa dos Murmúrios (2005), directed by Margarida Cardoso
- Viúva Rica Solteira Não Fica (2006), directed by José Fonseca e Costa
- Filme da Treta (2006), directed by José Sacramento
- Call Girl (2007)
- Saint George (2016)
He also appeared in other films directed by Ruy Guerra, Tiago Guedes, and Rita Nunes.
3.3. Television
Raposo has a prolific career in television, appearing in numerous soap operas, series, and TV shows. His television credits include:
- O Posto (1990)
- O Cacilheiro do Amor (1990)
- Pensão Estrela (1995, SIC)
- Malucos do Riso (SIC)
- Nós os Ricos (1997, RTP)
- Ballet Rose (1998, directed by Leonel Vieira)
- Médico de Família (1998 to 2000, SIC)
- Bons Vizinhos (2002, TVI)
- O Testamento (2007, RTP)
- Resistirei (2007, SIC)
- Conta-me Como Foi (2007-2009, RTP)
- Rebelde Way (2008, SIC)
- Espírito Indomável (2010, TVI)
- Golpe de Sorte (2019, SIC)
3.4. Dubbing
José Sá Raposo is also a recognized voice actor, lending his voice to various animated films and media. His notable dubbing roles include:
- Sr. Bogus
- The Lion King
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Hunchback of Notre Dame II
- Hercules
- Lady and the Tramp
- Toy Story trilogy
- Kung Fu Panda
- Cars
- Wreck-It Ralph
- Monsters University
- ChalkZone
4. Awards and Recognition
José Sá Raposo's contributions to the performing arts have been acknowledged through various awards and positive critical reception throughout his career.
4.1. Awards
In recognition of his outstanding performances, José Sá Raposo received the prestigious Portuguese Golden Globes award for Best Theatre Actor in 2009.
4.2. Critical Reception and Evaluation
Throughout his career, José Sá Raposo's performances have generally been well-received by both critics and the public. His versatility across different mediums and his ability to portray a wide range of characters have been consistently noted.
5. Impact and Legacy
José Sá Raposo's extensive and varied career has left a notable impact on Portuguese theatre, film, and television. His dedication to his craft, evidenced by his consistent work in diverse productions and his entrepreneurial ventures, has made him a respected figure in the industry. His body of work serves as an important part of contemporary Portuguese performing arts, influencing subsequent generations of actors and contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Portugal.