Meet Kate Chen | Actress. Voice-Over. Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kate Chen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kate, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I started wanting to pursue a creative career when the my interest budded in college, where I learned about filmmaking and storytelling. As a kid I’ve always loved going to see movies in the theatre, and loved to watch TV with family. I had that whispers in my ears that tell me to pursue a creative career but I find excuses to not go for it at the time. As I delayed the creative pursuit and ventured into other journey instead, I learned many things and perspectives about the world as well as different people’s lives on the road. I started having the desire of wanting to portray stories on the screen, and the whisper became even clearer. After all, I’ve always have the love for arts and creativity, drawing, and writing stories.
I am a daughter of first generation immigrant. I grew up most of my childhood in Taiwan then moved to the U.S. Having exposed to both American and Asian cultures as well as literatures, I believe I can bring a unique perspective and storytelling onto the screen.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a daughter of a first generation immigrant, brought up by a single mom. I grew up most of my childhood in Taiwan then in the U.S. Having been exposed to both American and Asian cultures as well as literature, I believe I can bring a unique perspective and storytelling onto the screen. As a shy kid growing up, I felt that sense of loss and longing for my life in Asia, while trying to fit into the new life in America. Feeling a bit of an outcast, I was an observer from the outside, and eventually became more interested in learning other people’s lives and perspectives. I want to combine my experience and the love for arts to create something onto the cinematic screen.

The journey isn’t easy. I encountered many challenges in the beginning phase of my career. What got me through was my parent’s and mentor’s teaching on perseverance and following my passion. Always learning new things on the journey, be humble, and be able to learn from mistakes and move on. Even though at first they were worried if I could make a living as a creative, they supported that I was pursuing something I truly love.

I want to shine light on humanity in roles that I portray, and expand Asian-American stories that have not been told or seen on screen yet. I believe in the magic of storytelling. I want to tell my experience as an Asian American in the U.S. And, I would love to work on projects that can inspire and entertain the audience. My parents inspired me to be a strong, independent woman. At the same time, I believe in the strength of vulnerability. I would love to use my instrument as an actor to bring the fullest of life to each and every character. Genres like drama, sci-fi, fantasy, thriller, and dramedy fascinate me. Also, I am especially interested in realistic portrayal of the difficulties, challenges, and joy that Asian-Americans experience in American society.
Other than the need for success and excelling school grades, Asian-Americans and the Asian community, like everyone else, are human beings.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you want to try authentic Asian food, visit east LA to try delicious Asian cuisine! I also love to go to the coastal area like Venice Beach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Many filmmakers, teachers, agent and manager, as well as my parents to say thank you to. When I started my career, my first three acting jobs were offered by female producers and directors. I felt it was an honor to work with them, and it was beginner’s luck to start the career that way. Also, I feel lucky to be surrounded by genuine friends who support each other. We share our challenges and goals, and support each other through the storms. There are teachers and casting directors who shared their wisdom with me so generously; I still remember their insights to this day. I am still a student of the craft and love to learn from people who are experts in their fields. This year, I also started working on projects that specifically portray Asian American experience. I am really excited for the upcoming films that are to come to the screen. It is truly a pleasure to work with producers and filmmakers who are passionate in filmmaking, and be able to contribute my part in their vision. Finally, my parents who inspire me to express freely and to be kind to others.

Website: https://www.imdb.me/katechen

Instagram: www.instagram.com/katecyn03

Image Credits
Photo credits Chris Jon, Alex Zamudio, and myself