Irene Vaz

Irene Cardozo e Vaz (née Cardozo; born 3 July 1966) is a former actress, singer, and amateur footballer based in London, United Kingdom. She is known for her work in Konkani films and tiatr (theatre) productions.

Early life Vaz was born as Irene Cardozo on 3 July 1966 in Chinchinim, Goa, India, to Piedade Cardozo and Constanciana Cieza Luis, a homemaker. Vaz's family background is rooted in the tailoring industry, with her father specializing in men's suits. While demonstrating an aptitude for acting and singing during her formative years as a school student, she prioritised academic pursuits.

Career

Early years Vaz began acting professionally in Konkani theatre at the age of 15, following her secondary education. Her fellow villager, Mario Menezes, an actor from the town of Chinchinim, got her in contact with Rosario Rodrigues, a Konkani theatre director. Rodrigues was known for his scriptwriting and multiple theatrical productions. Vaz and Rodrigues subsequently collaborated on several tiatr plays, including Fulam ani Kolle, Dolle Ugddun Poi (Open your eyes and see), Fudlea Vorsa (The Upcoming Year), Ho Uzo Kedna Paloutolo (When will this fire be extinguished?), Ashram, and Hanv Kallokant Sandlim (I've lost in darkness).

Breakthrough role and subsequent collaborations Vaz became famous in 1985 with a major role in Rodrigues' play Sopna (Dreams). She subsequently collaborated with Patrick Dourado in two productions, Tin Foggoteanche Marann and Nomoskar (Namaste). She also participated in productions by Konkani theatre professionals, such as M. Boyer and Prem Kumar. Her theatrical career continued with collaborations with directors such as Jose Rod, Prince Jacob, Fr. Planton Faria, Fr. Nevel Gracias, Pascoal Rodrigues, Tony Dias, and Mini Mario.

Move to Kuwait (2005–2015) In 2005, Vaz moved to Kuwait to seek employment prospects. Despite this relocation, she maintained her involvement in tiatr, participating in various productions directed by local Goan directors in Kuwait.

Vaz encountered Sylvester, a Konkani actor who is two years younger than she is, while performing in Mario de Vasco's tiatr titled Dhump. Both were part of the cast in this production. She later went on to marry him. He has pursued a career as a singer and keyboard player and has also performed on the Konkani stage, following his parents.