Walid Chaya Acting Coach

One of my favorite times in working with new students is our initial meeting. I really enjoy seeing what my students bring to the table and then pin-point specific skills to further develop. I find it special looking back at our first meeting after some solid work together and observing the progress.

I am a New York based director/acting instructor and Associate Member of the Stage Directors Choreographer Society with over 10 years of experience teaching performing arts education. 

I work with NYC casting directors and agents daily so I have a strong understanding for what's expected of actors in the audition room and on-set. 

I have directed several shows Off-Broadway as well as TV and film shoots, for my on-camera credits please visit imdb.me/walidchaya. My teaching experiences and acting programs have been featured in Broadway World and various newspapers, please visit my website for press and more: walidchaya.com. 

My B.F.A. in Theatre Performance with Magna Cum Laude honors is from Virginia Commonwealth University, rated #1 School of the Arts by US News & World Report and I am an alumni of the The American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony® Awards, SpringBoardNYC directors program. I love what I do and am excited to work with you. 

My rate for coaching is $60/half an hour or $100/hour (scene study, audition prep, monologue work, etc.).

Career consultations are $150/hour (helping you find an agent/manager, selecting audition materials, connecting with casting directors, talent portfolio and branding, etc.).

Ever since I was a child I wanted ot be a director. As an emerging director, I've found opportunities directing young actors in big productions. This opened the door to teaching and coaching actors, which I have enjoyed for many years now.

I have produced over 100 successful performing arts programs since 2008 for all ages with lesson plans tailored around the Department of Education’s standards to popular content and themes. All scripts and materials used in my sessions are customized for each of my students. 

All ages and background! I prefer to begin with age 7 since basic reading skills are important when working with scripts. I've personally taught Kids & Teens since 2008 in New York City and Washington DC, some of which are on TV and in movies today!

I am incredible proud of the Performing Arts Summer Camp I created and produced in New York City. To learn more about it watch this video: https://youtu.be/pdGinduyXRc

Read this article featured in Broadway World about the professional program featuring one of my favorite special guests, VIP Jen Rudin, Casting Director known for casting Disney Channel shows, movies, commercails and more: https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Photo-Flash-Director-Walid-Chaya-Invites-Industry-Pros-to-Actors-Connection-Camp-Including-VIP-Jen-Rudin-20170817

Give yourself a chance to meet with me for an initial coaching or assesment. I encourage my students to record their work (especially if intersted in acting on-camera) - you will SEE growth and potential after a couple of consistent lessons. You can do it if you set your mind to it!

What does your future look like one year from now? Five years? 10 years? 20 years? Use your imagination, think logically but with best case scenarios. Ask yourself that question and lets work through your lessons to get you there!!