Gisela João

Looking at her 12-year career, you could describe Gisela João as someone who never followed trends or rules, except those suggested to her by her own intuition. This made her an artist highly appreciated by audiences and critics alike. Gisela cannot be compared to anyone but herself. Those who were lucky enough to experience Gisela João live at her three previous performances at our theatre (2013, 2015 and 2018) will indeed remember her intense empathy with each song and the emotional conviction of her beautiful deep voice. But also the joy and energy with which she performs on stage, interacting with the traditional acoustic guitar-playing by the accompanying musicians. Because it is live that fado comes completely to life, and that certainly applies to Gisela. In 2025, she exposes her restless soul in a new album that pays tribute to all those who, before and after the 1974 Carnation Revolution, sang about freedom and helped make Portugal a democracy again. Her approach to this renowned repertoire is characterised by original arrangements, which once again showcase her unique artistry, untouched by fleeting trends or fads. On this album, she sings compositions by José Afonso, Sérgio Godinho, José Mário Branco and Fernando Lopes-Graça. She translates the dreams and aspirations of a generation that fought for freedom into the present, where the struggle for freedom is once again an essential need. Above all, she reveals her voice as an instrument of immense and unique richness, directly conveying her dreams, emotions and desires to her audience. With her disarming charm and incredible musicality, she moves every listener. Her voice is, as many say, a true treasure of our time.