Today we’d like to introduce you to Walid Chaya
Hi Walid, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From a very young age, performing has been my passion. Growing up as an immigrant kid in the United States, I learned to speak English by reciting Broadway musicals and movies. However, my love for theater was born even earlier during a summer break in Lebanon. My grandparents took me to see an Arabic musical adaptation of “Romeo & Juliet,” and after the show, I was taken backstage for the first time. That experience was magical and ignited my lifelong love for theater production.
My parents and I immigrated to the United States from Lebanon when I was just three years old, with only a few bags and barely $1,000 in their pockets. They worked tirelessly to build a life for us in the US, while I spent my summer breaks with my grandparents in Lebanon. This rich blend of cultures shaped my understanding of the world and deepened my appreciation for diverse storytelling.
In college, I began freelancing as a filmmaker and founded my own production company, Moonlit Wings Productions, which received numerous accolades including ‘Best Arts Programs’ by Washington Family Magazine readers. My entrepreneurial spirit and the “American Dream” inspired me to create opportunities for others, just as my parents’ sacrifices had made my own journey possible.
After earning a BFA degree in Performance with Magna Cum Laude Honors from VCUarts Theater and gaining recognition in various theatrical unions and programs, I moved to New York City where I spent 8 years working in the theatre, film and television. In 2018, I permanently relocated to LA and opened Studio For Performing Arts LA, the West coast division of my production company.
Studio For Performing Arts LA offers actors of all ages the opportunity to learn from industry experts through our powerful programs that provide real-world training and tangible business tools. Our offerings include:
– 1-on-1 Career Consulting
– Agent & Manager Showcases
– Masterclasses with Film & TV Professionals
– Demo Reel Services
– Customized College Showcases
Programs are available online and in Los Angeles, making them affordable and accessible to all. As the visionary behind Studio For Performing Arts LA, I help jumpstart actors’ careers with programs led by myself and industry VIPs. Our school’s dedication to diversity earned it the ‘Best Special Event’ BroadwayWorld Award, specifically for supporting MENASA performers in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.
Additionally, I offer publicity services for performers, leveraging my expertise to elevate artists’ profiles and propel their careers forward.
Through my work, I aim to inspire others to pursue their passions and create meaningful change in the world.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road in terms of expectations or what we learn to expect from school or society, but it’s been smoother when I go with the flow. This requires being very organized, grounded in my projects, and rooted in the work. I must trust my instincts, having done my research, to navigate effectively. Understanding where I am having success in business, and where it’s slow, has been crucial. Taking those indicators as hints to where my energy should go has helped me find this flow and made it a smoother ride.
Most of the challenges I’ve faced have been learning curves related to practical yet complex aspects like business accounting and tax filing, especially as the business grows and you hire more people, have more expenses, and host more events. Additionally, acquiring skills in marketing, design, and Google Ads has been essential to keep my business running smoothly. Understanding the nuances of digital marketing, mastering social media strategies, and staying updated with industry trends are just a few more examples of the skills I’ve had to develop. These challenges have ultimately made me more resilient and better equipped to handle the dynamic nature of running Studio For Performing Arts LA.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Studio For Performing Arts LA, my focus is on providing affordable and accessible resources to actors, especially those from diverse backgrounds. I am incredibly proud of the bi-coastal network we have created, which is backed by countless success stories of actors getting cast in film and television projects and signing with top Hollywood agents and managers.
Our studio offers a range of programs designed to help actors excel in their careers. We provide 1-on-1 Career Consulting, Agent & Manager Showcases, Masterclasses with Film & TV Professionals, Demo Reel Services, and Customized College Showcases. These practical tools and hands-on resources are essential for actors to stand out in today’s competitive digital age.
One of the things that sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity and representation. We are dedicated to promoting diversity in the performing arts and providing a platform for underrepresented actors to showcase their talents. This dedication has earned us recognition, including the ‘Best Special Event’ BroadwayWorld Award for supporting MENASA performers in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.
Our studio also offers publicity services to help actors elevate their profiles and propel their careers forward. By leveraging my expertise and experience, I guide actors in navigating the industry and making impactful connections.
We also support the podcast, Lights Camera Conversation, which I host with new episodes every week and Hollywood special guests. Stream previous episodes now on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Overall, what I am most proud of is the positive impact we have on the lives of our actors. Seeing them achieve their dreams and succeed in the industry is incredibly rewarding. At Studio For Performing Arts LA, we strive to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where all actors can thrive and reach their full potential.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For anyone just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to find a mentor or coach. The power of having a mentor who is actively working in the industry, especially in a role directly related to what you’re interested in, cannot be overstated. Behind every great actor is a great acting coach.
A mentor can provide you with invaluable insights, guidance, and feedback that you won’t find in books or online tutorials. They can help you navigate the complexities of the industry, avoid common pitfalls, and develop your unique talents. When I was starting out, I wish I had understood the importance of having someone experienced in my corner.
Your mentor doesn’t just teach you about acting techniques—they also offer real-world knowledge about the business side of the industry, from auditions to networking to managing your career. Having a coach who is currently engaged in the industry means they have up-to-date knowledge and connections that can open doors for you.
I’m proud to now be a mentor to many actors of all ages, providing them with the information I wish I had when I started. Even with my BFA in acting from a great academic program, I found I was still missing the real-world tools and knowledge needed to excel. Now, I can bridge that gap and help actors, regardless of their school experiences, who are ready to dive into the business.
So, invest in finding a mentor or coach who resonates with you and your career aspirations. Their support can make a significant difference in your journey, providing you with the confidence and skills needed to succeed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studioforperformingarts.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/studioforperformingarts
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/studioforperformingarts
- Other: https://instagram.com/walid.chaya
