Meet Jiaqi Chen | Actress

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

Hi Jiaqi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve been passionate about dancing and singing since I was a child, and the thrill I feel when I’m on stage is unparalleled. My journey into the world of performing arts was profoundly influenced by watching “High School Musical,” which ignited a desire in me to study musical theatre. I wanted to explore the limitless possibilities of self-expression through various art forms.

Being a storyteller, to me, is an extraordinary privilege because not everyone can weave a compelling narrative. After graduating, I embraced this role with enthusiasm and had the chance to be a part of several exciting film projects, including “Puppet,” “Bubble,” and “The Cage of Babel.” Each project was a unique adventure, but my most cherished experience so far has been playing the lead role of Freya in “The End of the World.”

Every time I step into character, it feels like I’m living a different life or voicing a part of myself that’s usually hidden. It’s an exhilarating experience that constantly renews my love for storytelling and performing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Among all the projects I’ve worked on, “The End of the World” stands out as the one I’m most proud of. It was the role I felt the deepest connection with, and it wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible director, crew, and fellow actors who brought their own brilliance to the production.

Navigating this journey wasn’t easy. As an international student and a second-language speaker, I had to put in extra effort to succeed as an actor in a new environment. The path was filled with challenges, but the key to overcoming them was courage. It was essential not to shy away from difficulties but to confront them head-on. Embracing mistakes, learning from them, and continually challenging myself were crucial steps in my growth.

No matter how many times I stumbled, each mistake was a lesson learned. I took those lessons and applied them to make every moment count. I would say I don’t want the world to know about me. My focus was always on storytelling—whether through dance, song, or acting. I prefer not to draw attention to myself but to the characters I portray. At the heart of my work is a commitment to telling stories, and that remains my primary goal.

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’re looking to dive into some authentic Chinese cuisine, you absolutely must try Hunan Chilling King and 3cat Milk Tea in San Gabriel. These spots are my top favorites—they offer incredible dishes and drinks that never fail to hit the spot.

After indulging in some amazing food, I’d love to take you to Laguna Beach. How could you visit California and not experience its stunning coastline? The beach is a perfect way to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of the area.

When I’m not working on set, I cherish spending time in nature to recharge. If my best friend were here, I’d take them to any place with breathtaking views and great food. Whether it’s a serene spot by the ocean or a cozy eatery, sharing these moments with someone special is always the highlight of my day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my latest director, Xiaohan Zhang. Working with him has been an incredible experience, and I am genuinely moved by the impact he’s had on my craft. The script he wrote for this project was nothing short of extraordinary—it’s, without a doubt, the most compelling and nuanced role I’ve ever had the privilege to play.

Xiaohan crafted a character brimming with complex emotions, presenting a challenge that pushed me to explore new depths in my acting. I was thrilled by the opportunity to give voice to such a multi-dimensional figure, and it’s been a profound journey of discovery.

His directorial approach was instrumental in helping me fully inhabit the role. Though his methods might come across as strict at times, they are driven by a deep commitment to his art and his actors. Xiaohan’s guidance allowed me to immerse myself completely in the character, bringing out aspects I hadn’t anticipated. His dedication and passion for filmmaking are truly inspiring, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to collaborate with him.

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