Leona Cavalli

Biography

Leona Cavalli, born Alleyona Canedo da Silva on November 6, 1969, in Rosário do Sul, Brazil, is a highly acclaimed actress and theater director known for her exceptional talent and versatility. From a young age, Leona showed a passion for the arts, making her professional theater debut at just 16 years old in a production of Waltz No. 6. She honed her craft by studying theater at PUC in São Paulo and went on to showcase her talent in various classic plays, earning critical acclaim for her performances.

One of Leona's standout roles was in the film "Um Céu de Estrelas" (1996), where she portrayed the complex character of Dalva, a hairdresser trapped in a dark and violent relationship. Her compelling portrayal earned her prestigious awards, including the APCA Award for Best Actress in Cinema and the Candango Award for Best Actress at the Brasília Festival. This marked the beginning of a successful career filled with accolades and recognition.

In 2000, Leona captivated audiences with her portrayal of Geni in the play "Toda Nudez Será Castigada," a role that earned her the Shell Award for Best Actress. She continued to impress with her performance as Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire," for which she received the Prêmio Qualidade Brasil for Best Actress in a Drama Play. Leona's dedication to her craft and ability to bring depth to her characters set her apart as a remarkable talent in the Brazilian entertainment industry.

Transitioning to television, Leona made her debut in a special appearance on the series "Os Normais" in 2002, showcasing her versatility across different mediums. Her roles in films such as "Amarelo Manga," "Carandiru," and "Contra Todos" further solidified her reputation as a versatile and skilled actress, earning her nominations and accolades from the Brazilian Cinema Academy.

In 2007, Leona delivered a memorable performance as Justine in the miniseries "Amazônia, de Galvez a Chico Mendes," earning her the Brazil Quality Award for Best Actress in a Miniseries. She continued to impress audiences with her portrayal of complex characters, including the prostitute Zarolha in the soap opera "Gabriela" (2012) and the villain Glauce in the prime time soap opera "Amor à Vida" (2013). Leona's ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has garnered her widespread acclaim and recognition in the industry.

In 2019, Leona took on the role of Teresa in "Orphans of the Earth," showcasing her continued dedication to her craft and her ability to immerse herself in diverse and challenging roles. With a career marked by critical acclaim, awards, and a commitment to her art, Leona Cavalli has solidified her place as one of Brazil's most talented and respected actresses, captivating audiences with her compelling performances and undeniable presence on stage and screen.