If you’ve ever wanted to create your own role instead of waiting for one, the Character to Short Film Writing Lab is your chance to make it happen. Starting May 6, this 4-week online acting class helps actors build an original character and turn it into a short film they can actually produce and perform. Led by literary manager Marilyn R. Atlas and acting coach Walid Chaya, this program blends actor training with storytelling—giving you real tools to stand out in auditions

“ I’ve truly enjoyed working with Walid! He’s not just an acting coach, he goes beyond that. He teaches you the ins and outs of the industry and helps you step by step to improve your acting and build a strong portfolio. Today, working together on creating reels and practicing scenes was super helpful and it really made the process enjoyable. Over the past few months, I’ve felt his genuine commitment to helping me grow and be on my side. ” - Yasamin Golkar, Actor

“ My First Official Package with Studio for Performing Arts — And It Went Out With a Bang My first official experience with Studio for Performing Arts exceeded every expectation imaginable — and truly went out with a bang. I began by signing up for a one-on-one acting coaching session with Walid, and I cannot recommend this one-hour class enough. In just 60 minutes, he advanced my online presence further than I had been able to on my own over the past five years — and I

“ I’m in need of updating my demo reels and I am SO happy to have found Walid and his studio. After reviewing so many other companies that offered demo reel shoots and landing on Walid’s IG video I knew my search had come to and end: Without a doubt I reached out for more info and about a month later I was filming a scene for my demo reel. Walid is super friendly, knowledgeable, professional, he knows what he’s doing and he knows how to make you shine as an actor/actress by b

Ready to pursue film and television representation? On Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 10:30am PT, perform live for top LA film and TV agents and managers at The Lounge on Melrose. This showcase is designed for actors who want real industry exposure and professional feedback. 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 & 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐒 ★ Jessica Olson (Riot Talent Agency) ★ Lauren Gibson (Metropolitan Talent Agency) ★ Timothy Garrett (TG Talent Management) ★ Maritza Cabrera (Limitless

Train in person with Casting Director Jordan Bass, of bass/casting, known for projects including Wind River, Annabelle, and Chemical Hearts, along with a wide range of feature films, television and theatre productions.

Looking for commercial representation in Los Angeles? This is your chance to get in the room. On Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 6:00pm PT, perform a 30-second commercial live for three or more LA agents and managers at The Lounge on Melrose. Featured reps include Dave Mendez (Lemon Lime Agency) and Haley Nelson (Evolve Artist Agency), with more TBA. This isn’t just another casting director workshop. It’s a live showcase designed to help you:

Want to book more commercial work this year? This is your opportunity to train directly with someone who casts national campaigns. On Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 10:00am PT, join Casting Director Lisa Pantone (Nike, BMW, Netflix, Disney) for an in-person commercial acting masterclass at The Lounge on Melrose. You’ll prepare two contrasting commercial scripts and receive live coaching focused on natural, booking-ready performances. Then, take it further. After the class,

At the 2026 Hollywood Movie Awards, a standout panel explored how vertical dramas are rapidly reshaping production models, casting practices, and long-term career pathways for actors across film and new media. Panelists emphasized that this format represents a structural evolution of the studio system, driven by real-time audience data, global market growth, and a scroll-first viewing culture competing directly with social media. The discussion highlighted vertical storytelli

If you’ve been hearing more and more about vertical dramas and wondering whether they actually matter for actors, this is one conversation you should know about. Earlier this year, Walid Chaya—actor, director, and Director of Studio For Performing Arts LA— spoke on a Vertical Dramas panel at the Hollywood Movie Awards, alongside casting director Paul Ruddy (a name many actors will already recognize), and platform leaders Yoko Chen (GoodShort) and Jenny Rosen (DramaBox).

“ Took the fall super scene study as a long time performer, but new actor and found the class extremely helpful. The space was comfortable for someone who's not very experienced but also pushed me to get better rapidly.” -Lauren Duff, Actor

“ Walid Chaya is a skilled and knowledgeable instructor that knows how to pull the needed performance from his students. I had a great experience in class. ” - David Pavao, Actor

“ Walid is one of the best instructors I've studied under!! What a great environment to grow your acting skills. I highly recommend ” - Ife Moore, Actor

If you have ever wondered why your demo reel is not getting the response you hoped for, you are not alone. Casting directors watch thousands of reels, and most actors are held back not by talent, but by footage that does not reflect where they are right now. That is exactly where StudioReel comes in.

"A beloved local tradition celebrating Broadway music, comedy, and community. The troop marked their 16th anniversary this past April. Since 2009, the weekly event has grown into a must-see spectacle, showcasing projected Broadway musical videos with MuMo’s hysterical, simultaneous re-enactments of the clips. Audience participation is strongly encouraged, transforming the night into a full theatrical experience."

"This November, the energy is set to hit new heights as the community gathers for the third annual “Wickedly 2: Broadway Benefit Bash,” a celebration that blends Broadway-sized performances with a mission rooted in generosity and connection, including a donation drive collecting canned food and gently used clothing for local LGBTQ+ programs.

"This November, the energy is set to hit new heights as the community gathers for the third annual “Wickedly 2: Broadway Benefit Bash,” a celebration that blends Broadway-sized performances with a mission rooted in generosity and connection, including a donation drive collecting canned food and gently used clothing for local LGBTQ+ programs.

"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.

Crazy Rich Arabs has been officially selected as a Quarterfinalist in the 4th Edition of the Your Script Produced! International Screenwriting Competition and Talent Discovery Event. This recognition places the script among standout entries in a prestigious competition that connects writers with producers, executives, and talent across the global entertainment industry.

Crazy Rich Arabs has been officially selected as a Quarterfinalist in the Scriptation Showcase Script Competition. The recognition highlights the screenplay as one of the standout entries in a field known for celebrating diverse voices and original storytelling.