Walid Chaya(I)
- Actor
- Producer
- Director
Walid Chaya, a Middle Eastern actor, director, and writer based in Los Angeles, is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry. Walid hosts the "Lights Camera Conversation" podcast, available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, or your preferred podcast platform. He can be seen in many popular television shows & films, while also working behind-the-scenes.
Walid is known for appearing on NBC's 'Blacklist: Redemption,' CBS' 'Madam Secretary,' and Hulu's 'The Looming Tower,' to name a few. He wrote, directed, and starred in his breakout film, "Driving Ms. Saudi," winning "Best Comedy Short" at Dubai's WOW Mid-East Film Fair and received global acclaim, with a special presentation at the World Expo. Walid's latest short, "Darn It Darla!" is in the film festival circuit and his feature romantic comedy "Crazy Rich Arabs" is in development.
"Moonlit Wings," the production company founded by Walid, began in his hometown in the greater DC area and now also thrives in Hollywood, voted 'Best Arts Programs' by Washington Family Magazine readers, with new projects constantly in development.
As the visionary behind the acting school "Studio For Performing Arts LA," Walid helps jump-start actors' careers with programs led by him and industry VIPs, both in Los Angeles and online. The school's dedication to diversity earned it the 'Best Special Event' BroadwayWorld Award, specifically for supporting MENASA performers in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.
Walid is a member of the Stage Directors Choreographer Society and an alumnus of the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony® Awards, SpringBoardNYC program. He was also awarded the "Diversity Scholarship" from Upright Citizens Brigade LA for his work in original content, sketch comedy and improvisation. Born in Lebanon and raised in the USA, Walid speaks both English and Arabic. Additionally, as CEO of 'Broadway in Beirut,' Walid enhances Middle East production value by connecting overseas producers/directors with American production resources.
He earned his B.F.A. in Performance with honors from VCUarts, ranked the #1 public university school of arts by US News & World Report. After college, Walid worked in NYC and DC for several years before relocating to LA.
As a familiar face on TV, film and theatre, and with extensive behind-the-scenes experience, Walid continues to develop exciting multicultural productions. Beyond his creative endeavors, he enjoys playing with his two puppies, collaborating with his sister, singer/songwriter Rawan Chaya, and savoring quality time with family and friends over Lebanese food, travel, and entertainment.
Walid is known for appearing on NBC's 'Blacklist: Redemption,' CBS' 'Madam Secretary,' and Hulu's 'The Looming Tower,' to name a few. He wrote, directed, and starred in his breakout film, "Driving Ms. Saudi," winning "Best Comedy Short" at Dubai's WOW Mid-East Film Fair and received global acclaim, with a special presentation at the World Expo. Walid's latest short, "Darn It Darla!" is in the film festival circuit and his feature romantic comedy "Crazy Rich Arabs" is in development.
"Moonlit Wings," the production company founded by Walid, began in his hometown in the greater DC area and now also thrives in Hollywood, voted 'Best Arts Programs' by Washington Family Magazine readers, with new projects constantly in development.
As the visionary behind the acting school "Studio For Performing Arts LA," Walid helps jump-start actors' careers with programs led by him and industry VIPs, both in Los Angeles and online. The school's dedication to diversity earned it the 'Best Special Event' BroadwayWorld Award, specifically for supporting MENASA performers in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.
Walid is a member of the Stage Directors Choreographer Society and an alumnus of the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony® Awards, SpringBoardNYC program. He was also awarded the "Diversity Scholarship" from Upright Citizens Brigade LA for his work in original content, sketch comedy and improvisation. Born in Lebanon and raised in the USA, Walid speaks both English and Arabic. Additionally, as CEO of 'Broadway in Beirut,' Walid enhances Middle East production value by connecting overseas producers/directors with American production resources.
He earned his B.F.A. in Performance with honors from VCUarts, ranked the #1 public university school of arts by US News & World Report. After college, Walid worked in NYC and DC for several years before relocating to LA.
As a familiar face on TV, film and theatre, and with extensive behind-the-scenes experience, Walid continues to develop exciting multicultural productions. Beyond his creative endeavors, he enjoys playing with his two puppies, collaborating with his sister, singer/songwriter Rawan Chaya, and savoring quality time with family and friends over Lebanese food, travel, and entertainment.
