Luís Miguel Cintra (born 30 June 1949) is a Portuguese actor, theatre director, and cultural manager. He is best known for co‑founding the influential theatre company Teatro da Cornucópia in Lisbon in 1973, together with playwright and director Jorge Silva Melo. The company became a seminal institution in Portuguese contemporary theatre, notable for its productions of classical and modern works, including plays by William Shakespeare, Bertolt Brecht, Anton Chekhov and Portuguese playwrights such as Gil Vicente.
Early life and education
Cintra was born in Lisbon, Portugal. He studied at the Conservatório Nacional (now the Lisbon Theatre and Film School) where he received formal training in acting and stage direction.
Theatrical career
At Teatro da Cornucópia, Cintra served as artistic director and performed in numerous productions, earning critical acclaim for both his interpretative skill and directorial vision. The company toured extensively across Portugal and internationally, contributing to the revitalisation of Portuguese theatre after the Carnation Revolution of 1974. In 2003, after the dissolution of Teatro da Cornucópia, Cintra continued to work as an independent director and actor, staging productions at major venues such as the Teatro Nacional D. Maria II and the Casa da Música.
Film and television
Cintra has appeared in a number of Portuguese and international films. Notable film credits include:
- O Pianista (2002) – directed by João Botelho
- The End of the World (Fim do Mundo) (1991) – directed by João Mário Grilo
- A Portuguese Goodbye (Adeus, Pai) (1986) – directed by João Botelho
He has also performed in several television series and miniseries, contributing voice work for Portuguese-language dubbing of foreign films.
Awards and recognitions
- Prémio da Crítica (Critics' Prize) for Best Director, 1995, for his production of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.
- Portuguese Golden Globe (Globos de Ouro) for Best Actor in a Television Series, 2001.
- Commander of the Order of Prince Henry (Comendador da Ordem do Infante Dom Henrique), awarded by the Portuguese Republic for services to culture.
Personal life
Cintra maintains a low public profile regarding his private life. He continues to be active in Portugal’s cultural scene, participating in workshops, festivals, and mentorship programs for emerging theatre artists.
Legacy
Luís Miguel Cintra is regarded as a pivotal figure in modern Portuguese theatre, recognized for his commitment to artistic excellence and his role in fostering a vibrant theatrical community in Portugal. His work has influenced successive generations of actors, directors, and playwrights.