These days, Brandot is appearing in our homes as Arturito in the Cuban soap opera Ojo de Agua.

When did you discover your passion for acting?

“I didn’t discover my vocation; in fact, I didn’t even know I had it. It was discovered for me…”

Oh, well, tell me that story…

“My first steps in acting were like a game. I was only eight years old, and during the COVID pandemic, when we couldn’t go out, a small project was created in the neighborhood for the children called “Los Chicuelos” (The Little Ones). We would get together to recite, act, play… and thus help with the anxiety and tension of those days.

“This project was directed by the theater artist Iliana Chávez from the Océano company. Professor Iliana is the one who discovered my talent and approached my mother, who also didn’t know, because we don’t have anyone in the family who was involved in acting.”

How did you get the role in the soap opera Ojo de Agua and specifically the character of Arturito?

“We got the part in “Ojo de Agua” through a recommendation from Professor and actress Yaremis. She had already seen me at my first audition and recommended me to the director.” After holding countless auditions, they decided to see me and were immediately impressed.”

Are Brandot and Arturito similar? In what way?

“Brandot and Arturito are similar, though not in their addiction, but yes, I think Arturito is also similar to many teenagers today for whom social media becomes an escape or refuge from the reality they have to face. In what ways are we alike?” Well, in his caring attitude towards his mom and, maybe, in the odd mischief, of course, nothing that crosses the line.”

So you're not as glued to your phone as Arturito? Tell me about that…

“No, I'm not attached to my phone. I prefer playing neighborhood games, so to speak: playing soccer, riding in a stroller, spinning tops, marbles, and things like that. Although I wasn't far from that during the COVID lockdown, when we couldn't go outside, but my mom always kept an eye on me and didn't let me go too far.”

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What was the most difficult thing and what did you enjoy most about this character?

“Everything was a challenge because it was my first time, but at the same time, everything felt comfortable. I wouldn't call it a difficult moment because I didn't feel that way; rather, they were challenges that helped me discover new things about myself.” I enjoyed every single detail of it. It was amazing.”

I know you're preparing for another television project. What's it about?

“Right now, I'm preparing for the project 'Una calle mil camino' directed by Tamara Castellano, and I can only say that I'm already enjoying it.”

I imagine acting demands a lot of dedication. How do you manage to combine it with school responsibilities and time for going out, spending time with friends...?

“Very simple. The secret, as my mom always tells me, is 'one day at a time,' and every night I try to plan for the next day. Of course, I never face it alone because, honestly, I'm like other kids. If I'm given too much free time, I get careless. (Secret: I still wouldn't be able to do it alone; I need my mom.)”

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff