Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Fran Tapia. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Fran , appreciate you joining us today. Have you signed with an agent or manager? Why or why not?

Over the past years, my journey has been nothing short of exhilarating so I signed with Firestarter Entertainment (FSE Talent) in August 2023 to get to the next level. Working alongside my incredibly dedicated agent, Nicole Sarro, has been a transformative experience that has not only opened doors but propelled me into extraordinary and challenging opportunities.

Nicole’s unwavering support has been essential, guiding me and understanding of my strengths and aspirations. Together, we’ve ventured into rooms filled with creativity, passion, and endless possibilities.

While my background has predominantly been in musical theatre over the past few years, I am particularly excited about the prospect of delving deeper into the world of traditional theatre. I am genuinely excited about the future projects and collaborations that await.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Greetings to all the wonderful readers! I’m Fran Tapia, a Chilean multidisciplined artist, and I’m thrilled to share my journey in the world of performing arts with you.

My artistic voyage began with a love for music, acting, and dance, culminating in a diverse career as a culminating in a diverse career as a singer, singer, songwriter, actor, dancer, and director. This year has been particularly rewarding, earning me prestigious recognitions such as the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Musical and Outstanding Ensemble in a Musical for my roles in “On Your Feet, En Español” and “Revoltosa” respectively. Additionally, I was also honored with a Broadway World Washington DC Award as Best Supporting Performer in a Musical for “On Your Feet, En Español.”

My passion and dedication have now led me to my greatest love—songwriting. I am currently crafting my debut solo album and collaborating with fellow artists. You can already hear my work in the song “Ese Mar,” featured in Jaime Lozano’s highly anticipated album “Songs by an Immigrant Vol. 2,” praised by none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda as “the next big thing on Broadway.”

Beyond my artistic endeavors, I had the amazing opportunity to serve as the Director of the Paso Nuevo Youth Program at GALA Theatre in Washington DC for two years. You can learn a little bit more of my work at GALA on John Leguizamo’s “Leguizamo Does America,” Washington DC episode, advocating for Latinx and BIPOC youth’s involvement in the arts.

As the host and creator of the podcast “Divino Tesoro,” I explore the intersection of LGBTQI+ experiences and childhood, sharing stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

My journey has taken me across the globe, with notable roles in the U.S., including the Broadway National Tour of “On Your Feet” and “In The Heights” at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival. I’ve also performed as a singer and dancer in Europe, on productions in productions like “Emergence,” “Rite of Spring,” and “Tramas,” all choreographed by the renowned José Vidal.

Whether on stage or behind the scenes, I thrive on collaboration, always eager to create alongside fellow artists who share a passion for exploration and continuous learning. Currently, my focus lies on refining my musical education and honing my artistic development.

What sets me apart is the profound connection I establish with audiences during my performances. I strive to infuse depth into my work, adding layers that evolve with each endeavor. Every performance is an opportunity to surpass my previous best, a commitment to constant improvement.

Among my proudest achievements is the resilience I’ve displayed as a human being, a woman, a proud member of the LGBTQI+ community, and an immigrant. Standing here today, I take pride in every small victory, embracing the courage it takes to reinvent oneself in a new country.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m open-armed, welcoming new opportunities for growth and collaboration. It’s a moment of embracing change and charting new paths, and I’m excited about the prospect of what lies ahead.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a mission of self-discovery and acceptance. I believe that all my creative endeavors serve as a source of nourishment for both my personal growth and my understanding of humanity. My commitment is to lead a life dedicated to exploring the multitude of possibilities available for my development.

Considering myself an eternal learner, I am devoted to continuously surprising myself by venturing into uncharted territories. Breaking through preconceived notions and limitations has become a hallmark of my artistic exploration. I’ve already shattered numerous self-imposed ideas, and my commitment is unwavering—I am determined to persist in this journey of discovery, challenging myself to go beyond the boundaries I once perceived.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I’m currently in the process of unlearning a lesson that has been ingrained in me for quite some time. From a young age, I absorbed the notion that accomplishing significant tasks required an almost boundless, relentless work ethic. This mindset, likely influenced by cultural attitudes of the time, became deeply rooted in my psyche, fueled by my inherent energy and determination.

However, I am now recognizing the need to release this belief. Instead, I am striving to embrace a more joyful and lighthearted approach to life. The journey involves letting go of the idea that success must be achieved through an unrelenting seriousness and demanding work ethic. It’s a shift towards living a life that is not only purposeful but also filled with joy and a sense of ease.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://frantapia.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franciscatl/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisca-tapia/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Frantapiaus
• Other: https://www.divino-tesoro.com/mypodcast

Image Credits
1. Fran Tapia wins the 2023 Helen Hayes Award as Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Musical (Helen Category) for her portrayal of Gloria Fajardo in “On Your Feet, En Español”  2. Gloria Estefan, Fran Tapia, Emilio Estefan & Clay Ostwald (Miami Sound Machine) at On Your Feet Broadway National Tour premiere. 3. Fran Tapia & John Leguizamo shooting Washington DC episode of Leguizamo Does America where Fran had the opportunity to be interviewed as Director of Paso Nuevo Youth Program. 4. Fran Tapia & Rosino Serrano at “On The Road To Arivaca” Workshop Recital where Fran had the opportunity to be Chorus Coordinator and liaison  between GALA and Alliance for New Music-Theatre. 5. Fran Tapia & Jaime Lozano at Lincoln Center, for the release of his new album, Jaime Lozano & The Familia: Songs by an Immigrant Vol. 2, where Fran had the opportunity to collaborate as a songwriter. 6. Fran Tapia & Linedy Genao at Lincoln Center, for the release of Songs by an Immigrant Vol. 2. 7. Fran Tapia & Melissa Barrera at Lincoln Center, for the release of Songs by an Immigrant Vol. 2. 8. Fran Tapia & Sergio Trujillo at STEPS for a Professional Work Session with the choreographer.