Last week, I had an incredible experience attending the American Film Market (AFM) in Santa Monica, CA, from November 12–17, 2025. It was amazing to meet so many talented filmmakers and production companies, exchange ideas, and connect with creative professionals from around the world. During the event, I had the opportunity to pitch both my upcoming projects, Crazy Rich Arabs and Darn It Darla!, and received great feedback from industry insiders. AFM is always such a vibra

On November 14, 2025, I had the pleasure of attending GQ’s Men of the Year celebration at the iconic Chateau Marmont. The night brought together Hollywood’s top creators, innovators, and tastemakers — all gathered to honor this year’s cultural game-changers.

"Studio For Performing Arts LA stands out as a hub where Hollywood’s next generation trains with empathy, skill, and professionalism. Whether guiding a newcomer through their first self-tape, mentoring a seasoned actor through a career transition, or helping a student from halfway across the world find their voice on screen, Chaya’s studio reflects a simple but powerful belief: great art begins with opportunity.

"Studio For Performing Arts LA stands out as a hub where Hollywood’s next generation trains with empathy, skill, and professionalism. Whether guiding a newcomer through their first self-tape, mentoring a seasoned actor through a career transition, or helping a student from halfway across the world find their voice on screen, Chaya’s studio reflects a simple but powerful belief: great art begins with opportunity.

Ready to take your acting career to the next level — face to face with Hollywood’s top decision-makers? The LA Acting Bootcamp, happening March 28–29, 2026, is your chance to train live and in person in Los Angeles while performing for 10 top casting directors, talent agents, and industry VIPs. This immersive two-day event is designed to help actors stand out, build real connections, and learn exactly what it takes to book professional TV and film roles.

Want to get noticed by casting and stand out in a sea of talent? It’s time to think beyond the audition room. In this free live webinar, “Publicity for Performers,” happening Tuesday, Feb 17 at 11am PT, award-winning actor, director, and coach Walid Chaya reveals how actors can use smart publicity and media features to boost their brand, get recognized by casting directors, and attract exciting new opportunities in film and television.

Ready to turn your acting goals into bookings this year? Pilot Season 2026 is coming — and it’s one of the most exciting times for actors to land major TV and streaming roles. But with thousands of performers vying for limited spots, preparation is everything. Join award-winning actor, director, and coach Walid Chaya for “Breaking Into Pilot Season,” a FREE online acting class that gives you a clear, step-by-step career checklist to help you stand out and succeed.

All you’ve got to do is dream — and audition! ✨ Dreamgirls Broadway is holding an open casting call, and you can audition from anywhere with a self-tape submission. This is your chance to get seen by Broadway casting directors and show off your talent — no in-person audition required!

If you’ve ever hit “send” on an audition email and wondered whether a casting director even opened it… this one’s for you. On Wednesday, December 10 at 11am PT, join award-winning actor, director, and coach Walid Chaya for a fast-paced 30-minute online acting class that reveals exactly how to stand out in a casting director’s inbox — and turn your submissions into real auditions.

Ready to take your first big step toward becoming a working actor? This FREE online acting class is your chance to learn how to turn your passion for performance into a real, thriving career in Hollywood and beyond.

"As a filmmaker rooted in both Hollywood and the Middle East, Walid Chaya’s presence at Murex D’Or was more than a red-carpet moment; it was a bridge between industries, cultures, and creative visions. His commitment to telling authentic, globally resonant Arab stories reinforces the growing influence of Middle Eastern voices in world cinema." - Prabhat Dewangan, UAE Stories

"Walid Chaya has added one more gem to his unending streak of genius work with his new project, “The Barent Trap.” -Level Up Magazine

If your child loves to perform, tell stories, or simply has an imagination that never stops, the All Star Drama Club in West Hollywood is the perfect way to nurture that creativity. Beginning October 7 through November 25, 2025, this 7-week program meets every Tuesday from 5:00–6:30 PM and is open to kids ages 7–14. It’s designed to give young performers the skills, confidence, and joy that come from being part of a supportive acting community.

Are you ready to take your acting career to the next level? Whether you’re working toward your first audition or aiming to sharpen your on-camera presence, the Actors Super Scene Study in West Hollywood is the perfect opportunity to grow as a performer. Starting October 7 through November 25, 2025, this 7-week intensive (Tuesdays, 6:45–8:45 PM) is designed for adult actors ages 18 and up who want to strengthen their skills, gain confidence, and make connections that matter.

From August 4–8, 2025, kids ages 7–14 stepped into the spotlight at the West Hollywood Aquatic and Recreation Center with ACTion! Pop Star Spotlight Camp. Presented by Studio For Performing Arts LA and the City of West Hollywood, the program mixed pop concert excitement with theater training for an unforgettable summer experience.

From July 21–25, 2025, kids ages 7–14 stepped into a week of magic at the West Hollywood Aquatic and Recreation Center with ACTion! Wickedly Wizard & Witches Camp. Presented by Studio For Performing Arts LA and the City of West Hollywood, the program blended theater, improv, and creativity into an unforgettable summer experience.

Actors, are you struggling with your demo reel or wondering how to start one from scratch? You're not alone. Whether you have zero footage or outdated clips, this free webinar is your chance to learn how to build a reel that casting directors actually want to watch. Join award-winning filmmaker Walid Chaya and guest director Jorge-Luis Pallo (best known from Pretty Little Liars, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and more) for a powerful online session that breaks

If you're an actor navigating the world of self-submissions, you probably already know that what you say in your email or cover letter can make or break your chances of getting an audition. But here's the truth: most actors are doing it wrong — or worse, skipping it altogether.

Actors, ready to sharpen your on-camera skills and impress casting directors? Join us for a special online acting class with casting director M’saada Nia on Tuesday, September 30 at 6:00pm PT and learn directly from one of Hollywood’s most inspiring casting pros.

Ready to gain online publicity, interviews, articles and become known in casting? Are you using Instagram, Twitter, or IMDb to network for..