Mariangela D’Abbraccio, the renowned actress and singer from Naples, has been captivating audiences for decades. Born 62 years ago under extraordinary circumstances, her life story is one of resilience and talent.
"Mia madre, incinta a 16 anni, è scappata di casa perché mio nonno era infuriato... Stavamo morendo entrambe. Un coraggioso medico mi tirò fuori per la testa con il forcipe, tanto che poi ebbi il 'piccolo male', però ci siamo salvate," she recalls, reflecting on the dramatic events surrounding her birth. This early encounter with adversity shaped her upbringing and career.
Raised in Avellino and later Rome during the vibrant 1960s and 70s, D'Abbraccio was surrounded by art and music. "Mi ha mostrato la grande forza delle donne e la possibilità del sogno, che oggi manca," she states, acknowledging her mother Anny's significant influence on her life and career choices.
Anny D’Abbraccio, who was both mother and mentor, prepared Mariangela for auditions, fostering her passion for theater from childhood through improvisation games. "Eravamo quasi sorelle. Era sola, ma per scelta, voleva essere al comando," she reflects on their close relationship.
Her path to theater was guided by the encouragement of prominent figures like Eduardo De Filippo and Pino Daniele. Daniele famously urged her, saying, "Tu sei napoletana e vuoi fare l’attrice, devi iniziare da Eduardo, dalle tue radici." This direction led her to seek out De Filippo, who welcomed her with open arms to his company and provided invaluable guidance.
Mariangela's storied career took shape through roles directed by Eduardo, who was famous for seeing talent as soon as actors walked onto the stage. "Nessun attore gli si avvicinava. Nonostante l’attrazione per il cinema, Mariangela D’Abbraccio sceglie il teatro come luogo di espressione assoluta," her dedication to live performance highlights her values. D'Abbraccio even turned down key film roles, stating she has no regrets: "Il teatro è libertà e la libertà è la cosa a cui tengo di più nella mia vita." Numismatic throughout her career, she has avoided the mainstream to embrace her roots.
Despite her success, her family dynamic, especially with her sister Milly D'Abbraccio, is complex. Mariangela emphasizes their differences but maintains strong ties. "Vive la difference!" she quips, showcasing their distinct paths. When Milly ventured to become a porn star, Mariangela felt compelled to express her disapproval: "Le ho detto che per me faceva una cazzata, perché aveva un sacco di talento." This letter encapsulated her belief in Milly's abilities and the potential she saw overshadowed by her sister's career decisions.
Mariangela's reflections on the arts serve as both insight and inspiration, urging the younger generation to pursue their dreams without fear. "Oggi c’è troppa paura, anche di amarsi. Devi dire grazie ai tuoi sogni e seguire la tua passione. La passione ti salva," she advises.
With upcoming projects on the horizon, including her tour for Lo zoo di vetro, directed by veteran director Pier Luigi Pizzi, D'Abbraccio continues to champion her craft and legacy. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing artistic integrity over commercial appeal, as taught by her mother and mentors.
With talent woven through her family, including her sisters Yvonne, who runs a renowned acting school, and Jacqueline, noted for her beautiful voice, Mariangela D’Abbraccio stands as a figure of perseverance. Her story resonates not just as entertainment but as a true portrayal of the struggles and triumphs women face within the arts.