Claudia Raia addresses motherhood after 50 and openly debates menopause in a play
The actress Claudia Raia and her husband, Jarbas Homem of Mello, recently participated in the program “É De Casa”, on a Saturday, to share details about their personal and professional lives. The couple highlighted the importance of their new theatrical project, “Cenas da Menopausa”, showing in São Paulo and with a short season scheduled for Rio of Janeiro, addressing a topic still surrounded by stigmas in Brazilian society.
During the interview, the artist also discussed the experience of being a mother at different stages of life, revealing the nuances and lessons learned from having children at age 30 and, now, at age 50. The conversation provided an intimate insight into the challenges and joys of late motherhood, a topic of increasing relevance today.
The participation of public figures like Claudia Raia in debates about menopause and motherhood contributes significantly to the demystification of these topics, encouraging open dialogue and the search for information, which is essential for many women and families in Brasil.
Demystifying menopause on stage
Claudia Raia explained that the idea of addressing menopause in theater arose from a concern that had been with her for around eight years, when she noticed the resistance to talking about female pleasures and discomforts on social media. Esse initial discomfort matured and transformed into a comedy that seeks to welcome and inform, transforming personal experiences into accessible art.
The show “Cenas da Menopausa” is built from several women’s stories, including the experiences of Claudia and Jarbas, which also addresses andropause. The play explores multiple perspectives on this phase of life, from the denialist woman to the one who embraces changes with acceptance, such as the character who goes to the gym with gray hair, providing a spread of perspectives on the topic.
The initiative in love and lasting partnership
Regarding her love life, Claudia Raia, known for her strong and determined personality, revealed that it was she who took the initiative in the relationship with Jarbas Homem of Mello. The couple’s story, which has lasted 14 years, began unexpectedly in rehearsals for the show “Cabaré” in 2009, where the actress did not hesitate to express her interest.
Jarbas confirmed his wife’s version, adding that the initial kiss came from her, solidifying a relationship that quickly became public. Essa authenticity and the way they built their relationship are often celebrated, reflecting a partnership that is not only loving, but also professional, which extends to the stage.
Their complicity is a fundamental pillar in their lives, evident both in the artistic projects they share and in their family life. The way they face challenges and joys, always with transparency and good humor, resonates deeply with the public and their fans.
Motherhood at different stages of life
The arrival of Luca, the couple’s 3-year-old son, brought a new perspective to motherhood for Claudia Raia, who was already the mother of Enzo and Sophia, the result of her previous relationship with Edson Celulari. The actress compared the significant differences of being a mother at 30 and, now, at 56 years, showing an evolution in his priorities and dedication.
At age 30, Claudia reported an incessant quest to be everywhere, feeling that he was missing something if he didn’t participate in each event. Já At 36, this feeling intensified, generating a constant need to reconcile all the demands of professional and personal life, a common scenario for many women at the same stage.
At 56 years old, the actress claims to have found wisdom that allows her to choose where she really wants to be, with the undeniable priority being the company of her youngest son. Luca represents a source of recharge of energy and joy, changing family dynamics and providing a more centralized focus on quality moments.
This maturity also extends to the relationship with Enzo and Sophia. Claudia feels that today he has a different availability for his older children, not only in terms of time, as he continues to act intensely, but in a deeper and more present dedication, marked by experience and the clarity of his life choices.
The routine with little one Luca: adaptability and joy
Luca, the youngest son of Claudia Raia and Jarbas Homem of Mello, demonstrates a remarkable ability to adapt, according to the couple. Eles shared that the boy accompanies them on all their trips and commitments, from everyday outings to international trips, like a recent one at Portugal, with great ease.
Luca’s curiosity manifests itself in the constant question “where are we going now?”, indicating your readiness for new adventures and experiences. Essa adaptability facilitates the dynamic routine of artist parents, allowing the family to remain together and share important moments, despite their busy schedules.
Jarbas Homem of Mello expressed his deep passion for his son, stating that Luca is the “best thing in the world” and his top priority. Fatherhood, for him, is a transformative experience that redefined his perspectives and values, placing the family at the center of everything, reinforcing the importance of family unity.
The vulnerability of Raia and the connection to the public
Claudia Raia revealed that, in “Cenas da Menopausa”, she allows herself to be deeply vulnerable on stage, asking permission from her iconic characters to speak openly about her own menopause. Essa delivery on stage is a courageous act that breaks the image of perfection that is often attributed to celebrities, showing that public figures also face challenges and discomforts, like anyone else. The actress described the moment as beautiful and intimate, where she felt a unique and close connection with the women in the audience.
Essa opening transforms the show into something more than a simple theatrical presentation; it becomes a kind of conversation circle or even a collective therapy session, where experiences are shared and emotions are validated. Claudia cited the example of a couple in the audience, where the husband was crying and felt compelled to speak, illustrating the emotional impact and the play’s ability to generate empathy and understanding on the topic. This humanized and sincere approach to menopause has been a differentiator, promoting a safe space for debate.
The impact of the play on social debate
The initiative of Claudia Raia and Jarbas Homem of Mello to bring the topic of menopause to the stage with “Cenas da Menopausa” represents a significant step towards the inclusion and understanding of a vital phase in women’s lives. The play not only entertains, but also informs and provokes reflection, encouraging society to openly discuss a subject that, for a long time, remained on the sidelines of everyday conversations.
