Portrait of Toni Valdés: From Hamburg to London – The journey of a musical performer
- bauendahl
- May 5
- 2 min read
Updated: May 6
Some people have the stage in their hearts – Toni Valdés is definitely one of them. Born in Hamburg in 1999 and raised with German and Mexican roots right on the Isebek Canal, Toni knew from an early age that her world was one of stories, music and big emotions.
She first stepped onto the stage at the age of five – on the legendary theatre ship ‘HoheLuftschiff’. A few years later, it was musical theatre that finally captivated her. She took her first professional steps in the ‘Young Talent Programme’ at the Stage School Hamburg – a place where her passion was nurtured and the first important foundations were laid.
But as is so often the case in life, it is not only schools that shape us, but also the people we meet. Toni experienced her most formative time in 2017 as part of the youth performance group ‘Reset’ at the Thalia Theater. There, she wasn't just a performer – she was part of a creative collective that brought music, self-written texts and performance to the stage. It was a space for expression, for depth, for personality.
What particularly fascinates me as a portrait photographer is that Toni doesn't just seek the stage, but also the camera. In many independent projects, often together with friends, she has also tried her hand at film – always with a strong sense of emotion, presence and aesthetics. In every shot, you can feel that there is someone who wants to express themselves – honestly and intensely.
Another milestone in Toni's career was her acceptance to the renowned Italia Conti Academy for Theatre Arts in London. After years of musical workshops during the summer holidays – mainly in London – a long-held dream came true in 2020: she was accepted to study at one of the best musical institutions in the United Kingdom for three years. Her final productions included classics such as Sweeney Todd, Spring Awakening and Big Fish, in which she played the role of Josephine Bloom.
Toni Valdés has been living and working in London since 2023 – a city that is just as full of stories as she is. As a musical performer with a background that combines theatre, music and camera work, she is a truly exceptional talent. And for me as a photographer: a real gift in front of the lens.
Are you an artist or performer yourself and would like to present yourself with authentic portraits? Then please get in touch with me. I love portraying people like Toni – with all their facets, their history and their passion.
