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

Walid, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

As a child, I would return to Lebanon to spend summer breaks with my grandparents so my parents could work and save money. One summer at age five, my grandparents took me to watch an Arabic musical adaptation of “Romeo & Juliet”. After the show, I was taken backstage. There I discovered “behind-the-scenes” of a theater for the first time. In that very moment, I knew this would be my true calling. It was a life-changing and magical moment; a cultural dynamic that has shaped me into the artist I am today.

Walid, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Walid Chaya, an actor, director, and writer based in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles. Additionally, I’m the founder of Studio For Performing Arts LA, a hub for actor training. I also co-host the ‘Lights Camera Conversation’ podcast, a dynamic platform where we engage pop-culture enthusiasts and entertainment entrepreneurs in captivating discussions covering film, TV, music, dance, and the influence of social media. Tune in weekly for our episodes, accessible on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

In 2008, I established Moonlit Wings Productions, a company dedicated to crafting new narratives for both stage and screen. Our mission is to champion stories that are multicultural, gender-diverse, and musically rich. Additionally, we offer educational performing arts programs suitable for all ages. Recently, we were honored with the title of “Best Arts Program” by Washington Family Magazine.

Expanding my reach from NY/DC to LA in 2018, I founded Studio For Performing Arts LA. This educational division has become a hub of creativity and learning, earning recognition as the winner of the 2021 BroadwayWorld Regional Award for “Best Special Event.” This accolade was in honor of our “MENASA Diversity Showcase,” a project directed by me in partnership with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.

For actors, my studio offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to enhance and propel careers. I have had the privilege of assisting hundreds of actors in securing representation with exceptional talent agents, providing coaching for prominent castings, and offering consultations to help refine their skills and personal brand.

Our Studio offerings include:

– 1-on-1 Career Consulting: Personalized sessions to strategize and plan your professional journey.

– Agent & Manager Showcases: Opportunities to present your talent to top industry representatives.

– Masterclasses with Film & TV Professionals: Gain insights and refine your skills under the guidance of seasoned experts.

– Demo Reel Services: Showcase your versatility and talent with a professionally crafted reel.

– Customized College Showcases: Stand out and make an impression with tailored presentations for educational institutions.

Studio For Performing Arts LA’s programs are designed to equip actors with the essential tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic entertainment industry. From securing representation with top-tier talent agents to honing your skills for significant castings, we provide comprehensive support.

On a cinematic note, my breakout film “Driving Ms. Saudi” garnered acclaim worldwide, including the prestigious “Best Comedy Short” award from Dubai’s WOW Mid-East Film Fair. It also enjoyed special presentation status at the 2022 World Expo. I’m currently in development for several new indie films and stage shows. I draw on my recent and ongoing experiences to assist actors in navigating the ever-evolving film market and finding their path.

I’m excited to continue this journey and collaborate with individuals who share a passion for storytelling and the arts. Explore our current programs and discover success stories on our website at studioforperformingarts.com or walidchaya.com/studio. Join us in taking your career to new heights.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Supporting artists and nurturing a vibrant creative scene is crucial for a thriving cultural landscape. There are several effective ways society can pitch in.

Mentorship and networking, for example, connect aspiring artists with experienced professionals for guidance and potential collaborations. Financial aid in the form of scholarships and grants provides early-career artists with the financial flexibility they need to focus on their craft.

Promoting artists’ work through social media, attending their events, or even assisting in organizing exhibitions can significantly boost their visibility and reputation. Affordable studio spaces are invaluable, giving artists a dedicated place to create without financial stress.

Collaborative projects and constructive feedback are powerful tools for growth and development. Advocating for fair compensation and championing diverse voices ensures an inclusive and equitable environment. Providing access to technology and resources removes barriers for artists working in technologically-driven fields.

Lastly, let’s not overlook the importance of mental health support. The creative journey can be emotionally demanding, and having a support system or connecting artists with resources for mental health is crucial for their overall well-being.

By adopting these measures, we’re not just supporting individual artists, but also creating a thriving community that contributes to a richer, more diverse cultural landscape. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

The most telling example illustrating my resilience is the fact that I stand here today, still in business, despite the hurdles that have come my way. From economic downturns to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and industry strikes, I’ve weathered them all.

This journey, though not without its difficulties, has been a powerful lesson in adaptability. It’s not just about survival, but about creating opportunities for others in my community who share a similar path.

Moreover, it’s taught me the importance of living in the moment and cherishing the creative process. Whether deeply immersed in an artistic project, collaborating with fellow creatives, or working on-set, these moments are where true magic happens, and the moments we work hard so hard to earn and enjoy.

This journey, fueled by a genuine passion for the arts, has been a testament to my resilience. It’s about more than financial stability; it’s a heartfelt endeavor to contribute meaningfully to the artistic community, propelling both myself and others forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: walidchaya.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/walid.chaya
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/walidc
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/walidchaya
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/walidchaya
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@walidchaya
• Other: lightscameraconversation.com

Image Credits
Headshots by Shandon Photography