Thais Sobreira: A Brazilian Woman on the Global Stage
Brazilian actress who has already worked with three Oscar-winning directors premieres film at the Cinequest Festival in California
On International Women’s Day, celebrated in March, Brazilian Times highlights the stories of Brazilian women who, even far from their country of origin, continue to make a difference around the world. Among these inspiring journeys is that of Rio de Janeiro–born actress Thais Sobreira, who faced numerous challenges behind the scenes but turned perseverance and talent into an international artistic career.
Based in New York, Thais has been building a solid path in film and theater, with professional experiences in France, Russia, and the United States. Her most recent milestone is her role in the feature film Her Song, produced by Academy Award–winning filmmaker James Ivory. In the production, the actress plays Fabiola, a character written specifically for her at the invitation of director John M. Keller.
The film was selected to open the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival in California, one of the most respected festivals in the American independent film circuit, known for showcasing productions that later gain international recognition.
The production brings together an international cast that includes actors such as Kalki Koechlin, Zach Grenier, and Marie-Christine Adam. The story follows characters from different backgrounds who find themselves in a small village in the French Pyrenees during the period of isolation caused by the 2020 pandemic.
Before reaching the festival circuit, the film had a private screening in New York for film industry professionals, followed by a discussion with the creative team. The positive reception paved the way for the film’s international circulation.
From Classical Dance to the World’s Stages
Thais’s artistic training began at a young age in classical dance. She studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory in Russia under the guidance of renowned instructor Gabriela Komleva. She later developed her career in Paris, where she appeared in theater, film, television, and voice-over projects before eventually settling in the United States.
In the French capital, she portrayed Serafina in Tennessee Williams’s The Rose Tattoo. She also took part in a production of the opera Don Giovanni at the Paris Opera, directed by Academy Award–winning filmmaker Michael Haneke. Her film credits also include productions such as OSS 117: Rio Ne Répond Plus, directed by Michel Hazanavicius, and the series Guyane, directed by Philippe Triboit.
In addition to her acting work, Thais lends her voice in Portuguese to major cultural institutions, including the Louvre Museum, the Musée d’Orsay, the Palace of Monaco, and the Château de Versailles, as well as campaigns for international brands such as Maison Mercier Champagne.
New Projects and Cultural Engagement
The artist is also expanding her work in independent cinema. She is currently writing and producing her first independent short film, which explores themes of identity, immigration, and family relationships—issues that closely reflect the experiences of many Brazilians living abroad.
On New York stages, Thais recently participated in the short play festival organized by Theatre Breaking Through Barriers, a company recognized in the Off-Broadway circuit for promoting inclusion among artists with and without disabilities.
Committed as well to cultural and humanitarian initiatives, the actress serves on the board of Presidio Dance Theatre, a San Francisco–based company known for its artistic and social work.
Thais Sobreira’s journey is yet another example of the strength and resilience of Brazilian women who, even while facing the challenges of immigration, continue to bring talent, creativity, and sensitivity to stages around the world.