Walid Chaya

Walid Chaya Email and Phone Number

Director and Owner @ Studio for Performing Arts Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA, US
Walid Chaya's Location
Los Angeles, California, United States, United States
Walid Chaya's Contact Details
About Walid Chaya

Walid Chaya, a Middle Eastern actor, director, and writer based in Los Angeles, is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry. Walid hosts the “Lights Camera Convo” weekly podcast on Ruckus Avenue Radio, available for free on the iHeartRadio app. He can be seen in many popular television shows & films, while also working behind-the-scenes.Walid is known for appearing on NBC’s ‘Blacklist: Redemption,’ CBS’ ‘Madam Secretary,’ and Hulu’s ‘The Looming Tower,’ to name a few. He wrote, directed, and starred in his breakout film, "Driving Ms. Saudi," winning "Best Comedy Short" at Dubai's WOW Mid-East Film Fair and received global acclaim, with a special presentation at the World Expo. “Moonlit Wings,” the production company founded by Walid, began in his hometown in the greater DC area and now also thrives in Hollywood, voted 'Best Arts Programs' by Washington Family Magazine readers, with new projects constantly in development. As the visionary behind the acting school "Studio For Performing Arts LA," Walid helps jumpstart actors' careers with programs led by him and industry VIPs, both in Los Angeles and online. The 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.Walid is a member of the Stage Directors Choreographer Society and an alumnus of the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony® Awards, SpringBoardNYC program. He was also awarded the “Diversity Scholarship” from Upright Citizens Brigade LA for his work in original content, sketch comedy and improvisation. Born in Lebanon and raised in the USA, Walid speaks both English and Arabic. Additionally, as CEO of 'Broadway in Beirut,' Walid enhances Middle East production value by connecting overseas producers/directors with American production resources.He earned his B.F.A. in Performance with honors from VCUarts, ranked the #1 public university school of arts by US News & World Report. After college, Walid worked in NYC and DC for several years before relocating to LA.As a familiar face on TV, film and theatre, and with extensive behind-the-scenes experience, Walid continues to develop exciting multicultural productions. Beyond his creative endeavors, he enjoys playing with his two puppies, collaborating with his sister, singer/songwriter Rawan Chaya, and savoring quality time with family and friends over Lebanese food, travel, and entertainment.

Walid Chaya's Current Company Details
Studio for Performing Arts Los Angeles

Studio For Performing Arts Los Angeles

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Director and Owner
Los Angeles, CA, US
Website:
studioforperformingarts.com
Employees:
16
Walid Chaya Work Experience Details
  • Studio For Performing Arts Los Angeles
    Director And Owner
    Studio For Performing Arts Los Angeles
    Los Angeles, Ca, Us
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  • Studio For Performing Arts La
    Director & Owner
    Studio For Performing Arts La Mar 2020 - Present
    Los Angeles, California, United States
    Studio For Performing Arts LA offers first-rate resources for actors to Elevate Your Craft & Career™. Founded by bi-coastal Director/Actor Walid Chaya, our studio is known for offering acting programs that are constantly evolving alongside the ever changing film industry and geared to Walid's speciality, "The Business of Acting In The Digital Age."Our unique programs help actors meet and learn from industry experts for 'real world' training and tangible business tools. Walid mentors actors and draws from his years of experience in the LA, NY and DC production markets. Programs are available online and in Los Angeles.​★ Develop, implement, and evaluate programs and curriculum for the fiscal year★ Create annual program budget with chief administrative officer★ Hire, supervise and evaluate industry guest speakers and instructors★ Design and oversee website including registration pages and social media accounts★ Create and maintain partnerships with like-minded arts organizations★ Act as a spokesperson for the organization's artistic purpose via speaking engagements, public and social appearances, and, as requested, at fundraising events and solicitations★ Teaches at least one course per season★ Produce diversity initiatives and scholarship opportunities
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  • Rukus Avenue Music Group
    Show Host
    Rukus Avenue Music Group Jan 2024 - Present
    Los Angeles, California, United States
    Tune in Fridays at 3pm PT (6pm ET) on Rukus Avenue Radio, free on the iHeartRadio app. In case you miss the on-air play, episodes are available on all platforms the following week for the ultimate Hollywood insider podcast! [lightscameraconversation.com] Join entertainment entrepreneurs Walid Chaya and Kavita Raj over a drink on "Lights Camera Convo," the ultimate Hollywood insider podcast. Discover the glamorous-yet-authentic sides of show business, experience Hollywood special guests, and find inspiration for music, film lovers, and creative professionals alike.
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  • Sag-Aftra
    Professional Actor
    Sag-Aftra Aug 2007 - Present
    Los Angeles, California, United States
    Walid Chaya performs in film and television productions for major networks and studios as an actor and member of SAG-AFTRA. He is a member of SAG-AFTRA and serves on the national board of their new MENA Committee, advocating for inclusion of Middle Eastern & North African voices in Hollywood.★ Interpret the work of a writer under the instruction and support of a director★ Develop serious or comic role by speech, gesture, and body movement to entertain or inform audience motion picture, television, radio, or other media production★ Rehearse and memorize lines★ Entertain, convey characters and express emotions in front of a camera and production crew★ Take cues from director★ Use body language and movement to bring out character★ Improvise the reactions of a character to a situation★ Prepare for and attend numerous auditions★ Do voice-overs for advertisements or recording commercial copy★ Research for a part by reading material or shadowing a person similar to the character being portrayed★ Discuss interpretation and delivery with other members of the company and the director★ Improve performance based on feedback from the director★ Collaborate with other actors as part of an ensemble★ Promote productions using means such as interviews about plays or movies
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  • Stage Directors And Choreographers Society (Sdc)
    Director
    Stage Directors And Choreographers Society (Sdc) Jun 2013 - Present
    Los Angeles, California, United States
    Walid Chaya is an Arab American director & writer based between Los Angeles and New York City. He is known for directing award-winning multicultural, gender-diverse and musical works including Off-Broadway premieres and regional productions in Washington DC and West Hollywood.★ Develop new scripts and read existing scripts, then decide how to present the story through cinematic images★ Collaborate with producers in selecting cinematographer, editor, and other crew member for the film★ Suggest writers to make changes in the script to make it more engrossing★ Meet with the cast and give specific instruction about their movement and intention for the scene to be shot★ Work with the lighting, set design, and the camera operators to make the scenes impressive★ Guide actors to portray consistency and the right kind of expression in the scenes★ Screen dailies at the end of the day to decide whether the scenes need reshoot★ Oversee the editing process to cut film and consolidate best pieces into the final product
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  • Supernova Casting
    Casting Director/Producer
    Supernova Casting Nov 2010 - Present
    Dc, Ny, La
    SUPERnova Casting, the in-house talent division of Moonlit Wings Productions, provides authentic performers for film, television, and theater in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. We offer quality services that are affordable with a quick turn-around. Our offices have cast for national and international clients in DC, VA, NY, LA, Italy, Beirut, India, and counting.We serve producers and directors by casting professional and exceptional registered and scouted talent for their projects, including features, shorts, documentaries, industrials, musicals, plays, and commercials.★ Consult with the producers, the director and possibly the writer to understand the project★ Meet with the production accountant for information about the casting budget, the money that'll be used to pay the actors★ Read the script and make notes about all the speaking parts★ Create a list of possible actors, in preferred order, for the most important parts first★ Contact the actors or their agents to determine their availability★ Provide the list to the producers and director to make their decision ★ Prepare lists of actors and production schedule for supporting and more minor actors★ Make appointments for auditions or readings with the available actors★ Provide information about available parts to talent agencies and lists opportunities with Breakdown Services, a company that maintains a daily list of acting opportunities★ Conducts auditions★ Makes recommendations, based on auditions, for each speaking part (the director and producers make the final selections)★ Negotiates contracts with the actors' agents, keeping an eye on the casting budget★ Issues casting calls for minor acting parts and conducts those auditions★ Acts as a liaison between the director and the actors, once contracts are signed★ Finds replacements, as needed, during production for actors who can't fulfill their contracts
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  • Broadway In Beirut
    Ceo & Founder
    Broadway In Beirut Nov 2011 - Present
    Lebanon
    ★ Provide resources to stage internationally recognized shows in the Middle East ★ Support productions to reflect mainstream production values similar to those on Broadway ★ Cultivate the arts for English and Arabic speaking audiences in Beirut and beyond★ Plan, organize and manage business projects for producers and directors★ Based on clients' requirement, work on projects related to development, recruiting, talent, scripts, payroll, production, budgeting, promotional campaigns etc.★ Communicate with and meet with clients when needed★ Perform initial assessments for each client before the project begins★ Collect as much information about the client's business as possible★ Understand clients' needs and wants★ Perform research using shadowing, interviews, surveys, reading reports etc.★ Constantly recommend solutions for improvement★ Develop detailed business plans ★ Consult with clients and team members
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  • Moonlit Wings Productions
    Artistic Director & Founder
    Moonlit Wings Productions Apr 2008 - Present
    Washington D.C. Metro Area
    Moonlit Wings Productions creates colorful content for the stage and screen as well as educational programs that champion multicultural, gender-diverse and musical stories. Founded by Walid Chaya in 2008, we offer full production services for theater, film, television and new media.★ Hire, supervise and evaluate artistic personnel including directors, performers, designers, and production managers as well as key technical personnel, including production manager and technical director★ Develop, implement, and evaluate productions and programs for the fiscal year★ Find and develop new scripts and works to produce and package★ Create annual program budget with chief administrative officer★ Act as a spokesperson for the organization's artistic purpose via speaking engagements, public and social appearances, and, as requested, at fundraising events and solicitations★ Foster the development of good relations with other cultural organizations by participating in meetings and joint activities where appropriate★ Report to the Board of Advisors on a regular basis to give an update on artistic activity★ Supervise the maintenance of written procedures manual for technical and production staff★ Produce educational programming for young performers and adults including performing arts camps, weekly classes and guest speaker series
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  • Richmond International Film & Music Festival
    Producer
    Richmond International Film & Music Festival Nov 2011 - Apr 2020
    Richmond, Virginia Area
    Hybrid in-person and virtual festival over 6 days with 160 films and 20 bands from all over the world as well as panels and signature community events, including industry interviews, entertainment mixers, and the Red Carpet Awards Ceremony.★ Support in event prep and coordination as well as overseeing event staff during the festival run★ Run in-person as well as virtual events, including VIP panels, interviews and film screenings★ Manage multiple projects and duties assisting the festival executive producer★ Ensure all film and music projects assigned are tracking globally★ Alter the proper team leaders or project needs if tasks are falling behind schedule★ Create documents and data reports for production schedules, marketing and media★ Communicate effectively and professionally with partners, filmmakers, musicians, media and patrons★ Ensure changes in resources, production requirements and execution are clearly communicated to the cast and crew of the project
  • Actors Connection
    Program Director
    Actors Connection Jan 2013 - Mar 2020
    Greater New York City Area
    ★ Created and taught programs to educate actors about working entertainment industry in New York and Los Angeles★ Hired and oversaw program instructors and guest speakers including teaching artists, casting directors, talent agents and personal managers★ Worked with co-program directors to develop over 200 acting seminars, classes and special events a month for all levels★ Consulted performers seeking on-camera training, talent representation, focusing on new areas of the acting business, improving audition skills and networking★ Directed seasonal Off-Broadway productions featuring emerging talent as a platform for industry connections★ Designed and developed necessary tools for success in today’s acting market including document design and lesson plans★ Implemented and executed promotional strategies for each program★ Maintained program databases, marketing campaigns, program copy and visual advertisements ★ Collaborated with outside organizations and producers for related events★ Communicated with clients and instructors day-to-day★ Served as host and spokesperson for special events
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  • The Public Theater
    Associate Producer For Disney'S "The Happiest Millionaire" 50Th Anniversary Benefit Concert
    The Public Theater Oct 2017 - Dec 2017
    New York, New York, United States
    ★ Worked with head producer to oversee production for benefit concert with Joe's Pub at the Public Theatre★ Assisted in administrative tasks for the concert to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS★ Helped manage and oversee silent auction for charitable donations★ Promoted the event to personal and outside networks★ Suggested and implemented new ideas and improvements if needed
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  • Pasadena Playhouse
    "Sleepless In Seattle - The Musical" Sdc Observer
    Pasadena Playhouse Apr 2013 - Jun 2013
    Greater Los Angeles Area
    ★ Observed the work of a master director, choreographers and team as they took "Sleepless in Seattle" from stage to screen in a new musical adaptation★ Accessed the entire rehearsal process from first rehearsal through opening night. ★ Learned first-hand the techniques, disciplines, approaches and insights of master artists as they created a new productions★ Wrote a Final Report outlining my experiences and thoughts on the production process as well as the impact on my work★ Awarded membership to Stage Directors Choreographers Society (SDC)
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  • Fairfax County Public Schools
    Administrative Assistant
    Fairfax County Public Schools May 2010 - Jun 2012
    ★ Assisted Principal with daily tasks including state department testing, day-to-day operations and school security★ Assigned to classes as short and long-term substitute for various subjects ★ Tutored various students on core subjects and provided mentorship★ Created visually pleasing and informational displays for school events★ Helped with front office phone calls, tracking attendance, guests and deliveries
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  • The Madeira School
    "Hairspray - The Musical" Choreographer
    The Madeira School Nov 2011 - Feb 2012
    Washington D.C. Metro Area
    ★ Collaborate with the production director and music director to stage "Hairspray" the musical★ Created dance routines that worked with the music and lyrics from the musical score★ Read through the script and interpreted each song for staging★ Created dance sequences to match the song and interpreted a story through dance ★ Staged movement safely and artistically as part of a scene or transition★ Attended rehearsals of dancers and cast members and ensure everyone has a clear understanding of the routine and ensure everyone is at the same level★ Ensured the routine looks good to an audience and everyone is in time with each other and the music★ Made sure the movement follows the original interpretation and the directors vision
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  • The National Theatre For Children
    Tour Personelle/Actor
    The National Theatre For Children Sep 2011 - Nov 2011
    United States
    ★ Toured to venues across the United States to perform an improv comedy "The Energized Guys" for young audiences★ Performed in 62 cities across the country with over 80 performances★ Directed events at venues (check-in, set-up, act as management liaison)★ Handled hotel & travel accommodations per provided budget★ Served as program speaker and participated in post-show discussions with audiences
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  • Opera New Jersey
    Associate Artistic Director
    Opera New Jersey Jun 2011 - Aug 2011
    Greater New York City Area
    ★ Worked with the Artistic Director and Managing Director to execute artistic and administrative production related tasks★ Collaborated with Company Manager on scheduling assistance and running day to day operations★ Supported producing two fully staged operas with orchestra, other second stage productions, summer concert series and community events★ Assisted in marketing, public relations and special events
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  • Theatrevcu
    Creative Director Assistant
    Theatrevcu Oct 2010 - May 2011
    Richmond, Virginia Area
    ★ Worked with Creative Director to promote TheatreVCU main stage productions, programs, classes and special events★ Helped market operations to a culturally and economically diverse audience, including the university, the Greater Richmond community, and prospective state-wide interest in the theatre arts program★ Assisted with marketing campaigns and communication between administration and students ★ Supported ticket sales to events with personal and social media engagement
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  • Drama Kids, International
    Director/Instructor
    Drama Kids, International Sep 2010 - May 2011
    Richmond, Virginia Area
    ★ Taught children from ages 3 to 16 techniques and strategies to develop clear speech, fluent delivery, pleasing social skills★ Trained students be able to work quickly on their feet and strengthen their improvisation and communication skills★ Helped students read plays with feeling, and understand the theater and speech genre★ Produced short plays in the classroom and put on plays for schools and parents★ Directed longer plays and musicals for main stage performances★ Prepared rehearsal materials including scripts and coordinating stage production, including sets, props and costumes★ Communicated with company owner, school administrators and parents on a consistent basis
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  • Richmond Triangle Players
    Assistant To The Director
    Richmond Triangle Players Nov 2010 - Feb 2011
    Richmond, Va
    ★ Met with the director, early on, to discuss the production vision and the director’sviews of AD responsibilities★ Worked the Stage Manager to help execute day-to-day tasks and responsibilities★ Attend pre-production planning meetings and production conferences as invited by the director★ Assisted the director at auditions by taking notes, keeping track of audition cards, etc. ★ Arrived early to set up the room for rehearsals and meetings★ Conferred with the director following casting session to establish the rehearsalschedule★ Executed production dramaturgy and research★ Collaborated with tech for production slides and set design★ Helped the director create a prop list for the production and provided thelist to the scenic designer and technical director★ Prepared the program copy in consultation with the director and the PublicRelations Director★ Attended strike and assisted the SM and Technical Director in supervising the strike
  • Moody Street Pictures
    Featured/Extras Casting
    Moody Street Pictures Oct 2010 - Dec 2010
    Richmond, Va
    ★ Chose and oversaw the obtainment of paid background and stand in performers, photo and body doubles based on the director’s vision★ Found featured talent with special skills, actuals, musicians, group singers and dancers★ Worked closely with all departments to culminate necessary department details for the performer’s day on set★ Communicated with actors and provided scripts, roles, payroll and administrative information ★ Prepared actors by connecting them with various departments for wardrobe fittings, hair and make-up, rehearsals and shooting★ Posted casting calls online and scouted actors for all background and featured roles from submissions★ Distributed daily background performers lists a.k.a. skins to appropriate crew members★ Remained in constant contact with the 2nd AD on set and was available on call duringshooting hours
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  • The Walt Disney Company
    Radio Disney Host
    The Walt Disney Company Nov 2009 - Nov 2010
    Richmond, Virginia, United States
    ★ Toured to major events and venues to host concerts/events that promote Disney Channel television shows, original movies and stars★ Presented special guests, audience activities, contests and awards★ Completed pre-show research regarding the brand or production to be promoted ★ Attend meetings with direct supervisor as required★ Interview various guests (audio and video) both in studio on off site to provide engaging content relevant to Radio Disney’s core audience★ Projected a youthful attitude and sensibility while also being well spoken, witty and knowledgeable in kids’ media.
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Walid Chaya Skills

Administration Social Media Marketing Theatre Acting Public Speaking Singing Musical Theatre Short Films Stress Management Film Production Casting Drama Video Editing Entertainment Event Planning Directing Film Improvisation Television Music Stage Dance System Administration Plays Playwriting Feature Films Choreography Theatrical Production Stage Management Commercials Shakespeare Producing Documentaries Production Managment Performing Arts Arts Administration Stage Combat Dialects Stage Direction Broadway Festivals Comedy Physical Theatre Voice Acting Dramaturgy Sketch Comedy Music Videos Independent Film Set Design

Walid Chaya Education Details

Frequently Asked Questions about Walid Chaya

What company does Walid Chaya work for?

Walid Chaya works for Studio For Performing Arts Los Angeles

What is Walid Chaya's role at the current company?

Walid Chaya's current role is Director and Owner.

What is Walid Chaya's email address?

Walid Chaya's email address is wa****@****ail.com

What is Walid Chaya's direct phone number?

Walid Chaya's direct phone number is +157127*****

What schools did Walid Chaya attend?

Walid Chaya attended Virginia Commonwealth University.

What are some of Walid Chaya's interests?

Walid Chaya has interest in Culture, Writing, Cooking, Living Life, Parties, Dancing, The Beach, Musical Theatre, Running, People.

What skills is Walid Chaya known for?

Walid Chaya has skills like Administration, Social Media Marketing, Theatre, Acting, Public Speaking, Singing, Musical Theatre, Short Films, Stress Management, Film Production, Casting, Drama.

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