Encanto Character Guide
Bruno
Bruno is the misunderstood uncle who can see the future. He disappeared years ago because his visions were blamed for bad things happening. He is awkward, superstitious, and secretly kind. Bruno is one of the most memorable characters in the film and his song is the breakout hit of the soundtrack.
Personality for Dance
Bruno moves nervously. He is hunched, twitchy, always glancing around. Years of living alone in the walls made him socially awkward. He talks to his rats, knocks on wood, throws salt over his shoulder, and holds his breath at random moments. But when he does a vision, he transforms. He becomes intense, dramatic, almost possessed. This contrast is what makes him interesting to play.
The Outfit
Top
Dark green tunic or long-sleeved shirt. Keep it loose and slightly oversized to suggest he has been hiding and not taking care of himself. The fabric should look worn, not shiny or new.
Bottom
Brown or dark green loose pants. Nothing fitted. He is not trying to look good.
Accessories
The hooded green ruana (Colombian poncho) is essential. It should be large enough to pull over his head dramatically during vision sequences. Add a rope belt. Some productions add hourglasses or sand timers as props for the prophecy scenes.
Shoes
Simple sandals or bare feet work well. He lived in the walls, he is not wearing fancy shoes.
Hair
Messy, greying dark hair. Stubble if appropriate for the dancer. His look is dishevelled, not put-together.
Special Details
Green glow is crucial for his visions. Work with your lighting designer on green wash and possibly handheld green glow sticks hidden in props. Sand effects (either fabric streamers in sand colours or actual sand in contained props) add to the prophecy atmosphere.
Movement Tips
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Build in the nervous tics. Knock on wood, throw salt, cross fingers. These should become second nature. -
Hunched posture that straightens during powerful moments. The physical transformation shows his hidden strength. -
Quick, darting movements when nervous. Smooth, controlled movements when doing visions. -
During We Dont Talk About Bruno, he can appear in shadows, behind other dancers, always just out of reach. -
Use levels. He spent years climbing through walls. He should be comfortable on the floor, climbing set pieces, appearing in unexpected places.
Best for ages 14 and up. The physical comedy and character acting require maturity. The nervous energy needs to read as intentional, not accidental. Younger teens can play Bruno but need strong direction to avoid making him too silly.
