Simone de Oliveira honored in Lisbon on World Theatre Day

At this afternoon's tribute to the interpreter of "Sol de Inverno" and "Desfolhada Portuguesa", the Minister of Culture, Margarida Balseiro Lopes, noted the "emotion, intensity and truth" of Simone de Oliveira, whose "work is a living legacy that will continue to inspire artists and audiences for many years to come."

"More than six decades of songs and stage, microphones and cameras, have not been a long tranquil river, but a wild river, which jumps, pierces and breaks the earth, digging its own bed, in its eagerness to reach a sea that I didn't know existed," said Simone de Oliveira.

Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon, joined in the tribute ceremony and emphasized the merit of this recognition: "It's a just distinction, for an immense woman".

Celebrating World Theatre Day, the mayor pointed out, "is not just fulfilling a tradition in our city's calendar, but an act of profound gratitude and recognition", in front of a full hall, with some of the biggest names in national theater, for the commemoration of this event.

In the "familiar" faces, said Carlos Moedas, "I see the living memory of a country and a city that has learned to dream with you". You," he added, "are not just our past. You are the soul of our present".

The traditional lunch to mark World Theater Day took place at Casa do Artista. This "is an institution that understands the dignity of those who create. It doesn't end when the stage lights go out. On the contrary, this space ensures that the talent and history of each one continues to be honored with the comfort, assistance and company they deserve," said Carlos Moedas.

In 2007, Lisbon City Council awarded Simone de Oliveira the Gold Municipal Medal of Merit. The distinction is awarded to "personalities or entities of recognized merit, outstanding services rendered to the city of Lisbon, by natural or legal persons, national or foreign".

"A Toast to the Theater" at Praça da Alegria

The Alfredo Keil Garden, in Praça da Alegria, has 10 more artists' names on the Portuguese sidewalk.

The tribute celebrates "the talent and legacy of our artists, whose career has marked the national theatrical scene", says the organizers of the sixth edition of "A Toast to the Theatre".

The 142 names already honored are now joined by: Manuela Couto (actress); Maria Emília Correia (actress); Maria João Luís (actress); Melânia Gomes (actress); Miguel Dias (actor); Noémia Costa (actress); Paulo Vasco (actor); Ricardo Carriço (actor); Vasco Morgado Jr. (producer); Vasco Rafael (actor, fado singer).

Read the Portuguese Society of Authors' message for World Theatre Day 2026.