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

Hi Walid, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Opening Studio For Performing Arts LA and founding Moonlit Wings Productions stemmed from recognizing the challenges actors and creatives face in transitioning from academia to the film and TV job market. Despite extensive BFA training, I experienced gaps that I aim to streamline for others, providing real-world resources through programs both in LA and online.

Studio For Performing Arts LA focuses on equipping actors with business knowledge to find work in film and television, addressing education and portfolio shortcomings. The goal is to empower actors to navigate the industry more efficiently, allowing them to focus on their artistry and creativity.

Moonlit Wings Productions reflects my commitment to addressing representation issues by producing my own work and giving a voice to underrepresented communities. In summary, my journey from BFA graduate to a force in the entertainment industry is driven by addressing education gaps, promoting diversity, and shaping my own narrative while contributing to the industry’s evolution.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

As the founder of Studio For Performing Arts LA and Moonlit Wings Productions, my business is dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and the film and TV job market for actors and creatives. I take pride in creating programs that offer real-world resources, both in LA and online, empowering artists to focus on their creativity.

My journey from a BFA graduate to where I am today involved overcoming challenges and realizing the importance of addressing education gaps. Running Moonlit Wings Productions reflects my commitment to addressing representation issues and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.

In addition, I host the ‘Lights Camera Convo’ podcast on Rukus Avenue Radio, with free episodes on the iHeartRadio app every Friday at 3pm ET (6pm PT). The podcast aims to assist entertainment entrepreneurs and performers in navigating the industry by providing valuable insights.

My brand and story revolve around empowering artists, fostering diversity, and contributing to the evolution of the entertainment industry. Studio For Performing Arts LA and Moonlit Wings Productions are not just businesses; they are platforms for change, creativity, and inclusivity in the world of entertainment.

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.
For a week-long trip to show my best friend the best time ever, I’d start with a hike in Malibu, offering breathtaking views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Later that evening we’d head to Catch for dinner, known for its delicious seafood and over-the-top Instagram-worthy environment, a perfect photo opp for me and my friend that’s visiting.

To add some cultural flair, I’d plan a visit to the Pasadena Playhouse for a captivating show or, for a lighter touch, an improv show at UCB LA. Plus a pit stop for late night dessert at Salt & Straw, sampling their unique monthly flavors.

As the night kicks in, the fun continues with a choice between hitting the dance floor in West Hollywood or catching a live concert or music festival for an unforgettable experience. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culinary delights, cultural entertainment, and vibrant nightlife.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To my parents, who, with the little we had, gave me the world, and through their unwavering commitment to family, taught me the enduring values of hard work and gratitude.

Website: walidchaya.com

Instagram: instagram.com/walid.chaya

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/walidchaya

Twitter: twitter.com/walidchaya

Facebook: facebook.com/walidc

Youtube: youtube.com/@walidchaya

Other: studioforperformingarts.com instagram.com/studioforperformingarts moonlitwings.org instagram.com/moonlitwingspro lightscameraconversation.com instagram.com/lightscameraconvesation

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.