My journey as an actress and performer began in Orange County, California when I first watched The Phantom of Opera at the age of thirteen. I’d never seen or heard anything like it—the insane vocals, the elaborate set design, the intricate costumes, the vulnerable acting. Watching Christine Daae’s arc blossom from a timid ballet dancer to a leading lady at the Palais Garnier and making courageous decisions inspired me to come out of my shy pre-teen shell. Thus, I begged my mother for voice lessons. Obsessed. I became obsessed with the craft of singing and expressing myself through my instrument: my body and my soul.

My mother saw my talent and introduced me to the songs of her motherland. I was born in America to Vietnam War refugees, so I grew up hearing their stories of leaving behind everything they knew for a chance in the land of opportunity. I never personally felt their pain, their love, their joys until learning and performing their songs. It felt like a possession to me, when the voice, the head, and the heart are all aligned to transmit emotional experiences to others. I performed for Vietnamese communities around the nation while I sharpened my operatic and musical theater training.

My introduction to New York City was through the Empower Voices Now intensive program by Raquel Suarez-Groen (Carlotta in Phantom). I remember the first time I stepped foot on the bustling streets, surrounded by theaters and performers like me—home. This is home. I knew I would be back and promised myself I would. So, I applied to NYU for a graduate program and got in! Going from sunny, suburban California to New York City was an adjustment, but I was home. I continue to grow as a person and an artist with so many exciting opportunities ahead of me. I hope you look forward to following my journey!