Today we’d like to introduce you to Ri-Ahn Kim.
Hi Ri-ahn, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey as a musical theatre performer in South Korea, where I performed for over 13 years in various productions such as Matilda, Ghost, and Aida. Performing on stage has always been my greatest passion, and through those years, I learned how powerful storytelling through music and movement can be.
After building my career in Korea, I decided to expand my artistry and challenge myself in the U.S. I graduated from the New York Film Academy’s Musical Theatre program and have since been performing and auditioning in New York, including a recent production of West Side Story. My journey has been full of new experiences, growth, and constant learning, and I’m excited to keep sharing my story through my performances.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting over in a new country after more than a decade of performing in Korea was both exciting and intimidating. I had to adapt to a different culture, language, and artistic environment while continuing to prove myself all over again.
One of the biggest challenges was the language barrier. There were nights when I cried because I felt so frustrated and alone. I often thought about going back to Korea, especially since I came to the U.S. completely by myself. But in those moments, I kept asking myself, “Why did I come here?” and reminding myself, “At least I should try hard enough so that I’ll never regret it.”
There were times when I felt uncertain or invisible, especially competing in an industry as tough as musical theatre in New York. But those struggles made me stronger and reminded me why I chose this path. Because I truly love performing and connecting with people through art. Every challenge has helped me grow, both as an artist and as a person.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a professional musical theatre performer who specializes in storytelling through acting, singing, and movement. I’ve spent over 13 years performing in major productions in South Korea, including Matilda, Ghost, and Aida and many more. And recently, I continued my journey in the US with West Side Story.
Although I haven’t played lead or supporting roles, I’ve built my career as an ensemble performer and I truly believe the ensemble is the heartbeat of every musical. We are the ones who bring energy, texture, and life to every scene. In some productions, I’ve also performed featured solos and speaking parts, which allowed me to explore both individuality and unity on stage.
Just like the Tony Awards in the US, Korea has a major national musical awards ceremony, and I was honored to receive two Ensemble Awards for Aida and Matilda. I’m very proud of that recognition because it represents teamwork, artistry, and dedication.
I love being part of the ensemble because it allows me to portray many different characters within a single show. Most of all, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of dancing and breathing together with other ensemble members on stage. It’s an indescribable feeling that reminds me why I love this art form so deeply.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I think taking risks is essential for growth. Especially as an artist. Every time we step on stage, we’re already taking a small risk by exposing our emotions in front of others. But the biggest risk I’ve ever taken was leaving my established career in South Korea to start over in the US
In Korea, I had a stable life and was performing in many well known productions like Matilda, Ghost, and Aida. But I felt a strong desire to challenge myself in a new environment. To see how far I could go if I stepped out of my comfort zone. Coming to the US alone, without family or a clear guarantee of success, was terrifying. There were many moments of fear and doubt, but I knew that staying in the same place would be a bigger risk. The risk of never knowing what I was capable of.
For me, risk isn’t about recklessness. It’s about courage. The courage to move forward even when you’re scared. Taking that leap changed my life, and even with all the struggles, I don’t regret it for a single moment.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ri_ahn_k/
Image Credits
Seensee Company (Musical Aida, Matilda, Ghost)
