Walid Chaya Acting Coach
Best of 2022
About this pro
Hello! 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.
My teaching experiences and acting programs have been featured in Broadway World and various newspapers. Most recently my company was awarded "Best Drama Instruction" first runner-up from Washington Family Magazine.
I have directed several shows Off-Broadway as well as TV and film shoots, for my on-camera credits please visit imdb.me/walidchaya or my website at 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.
Let's take your acting or filmmaking to the next level!
Helping others understand or experience an idea that may be unique to them. Coaching actors to book the role. Meeting special, talented students and watching them grow.
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Credentials
Hollywood, CA 90028
Email verified
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I'm new to all of this and Walid has makes our lessons very informative and enjoyable. Excited to learn more and go on my first audition soon.
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Best acting coach in NYC.
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I loved having Mr. Walid as my teacher for acting. He's very nice and he encouraged me to try out for my school play. He even helped me pick a monologue because I didn't know where to find one. It was really good and he is a good teacher!!!!!
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Walid saves the day when we get a last minute audition. He works with my child, Travis, on his sides while teaching him lifelong acting lessons along the way. Travis says he feels prepared in the audition room and I know Walid helps bring this confidence forward.
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FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
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.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
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.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
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.).
How did you get started teaching?
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.
What types of students have you worked with?
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!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
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
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
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 questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
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!!
Lessons offered
Acting Classes Child Acting Lessons Film Acting Classes Film And Tv Acting Classes Film Schools Filmmaking Classes Improv Acting Classes Scene Study Classes Speaking Voice Training Shakespearean Acting Classes Stage Performance Training Theater Acting Classes Voice Acting Classes