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Teaching at the Highest Level? Let’s Talk About It.

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  Teaching at the Highest Level? Let’s Talk About It. By KP Phagnasay There’s been some recent conversation around the idea of me teaching acting at the university or conservatory level. Honestly, just being mentioned in that space is humbling. I have a deep respect for educators and for institutions that train the next generation of artists. But there’s a reality behind that opportunity—one that many outside the system may not fully understand. The Academic Path vs. The Industry Path In most cases, to qualify for a teaching position at that level, you need a Master’s or MFA in the subject you’re teaching. It’s part of the structure of higher education. I understand and respect that process. For the record, I attended two years of graduate school. I was well on my way to finishing, but due to life circumstances—both personal and professional—I had to step away before completing the degree. That decision wasn’t easy, but it was necessary at the time. Still, the experience, trai...
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Carrying the Story: A Lao Refugee’s Journey Toward Purpose

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There’s a story I’ve carried with me my whole life. It started in the quiet of a temple in Laos, beneath a sky that knew too much fear. I was just a boy, holding my sister’s hand, not fully understanding why we were leaving or what came next—only that we were running toward something called freedom. We crossed borders, slept in detention centers, filled out endless paperwork. We waited for a new beginning. We landed in America. But the arrival was only the start of a different kind of survival. We were the only few Lao family in the community. I was a kid who didn’t quite belong. My lunch smelled different. My name was mispronounced. I was mistaken for every Asian but my own. And yet—inside, something was stirring. On weekends, I watched "Black Belt Theater", gripping my seat as Bruce Lee fought not just men, but stereotypes. He was the only reflection I saw on screen, even if he wasn’t Lao. It didn’t matter. He was a symbol that maybe, just maybe, I could belong somew...
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My Refugee Journey: A Legal Path to America

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My Refugee Journey: A Legal Path to America My dad, family helper, older siter, mom, and me.My only baby picture of me as a baby being held by my mother.  When we escaped Laos, I was only 6-7 years old—but the journey that followed is etched into my memory. It wasn’t just a journey across borders; it was a long, deliberate process that required legal steps, documentation, and an unwavering commitment to doing everything the right way. Our journey began at a temple, where we spent the night before being escorted to a local Thai police station. There, we were questioned, searched, and asked to complete various paperwork. From there, we were transported to another local authority post. Men were separated from women and children, and again we faced several days of interviews and processing. Eventually, we were cleared to move to the next stage of our journey. We were sent to a detention center where we underwent further paperwork and questioning—each step carefully documented. After ...
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Staying Mentally Strong as an Actor: Embracing Patience and Self-Worth

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Being an actor can be a challenging and unpredictable journey. It's not uncommon to face periods of uncertainty and struggle to find work. However, it's crucial to stay mentally strong and maintain a positive mindset throughout this process. In this blog, we will explore some key strategies to help you stay motivated, believe in your talent, and navigate the ups and downs of the acting industry. 1. Embrace a Strong Mindset: One of the most important aspects of staying mentally strong as an actor is cultivating a resilient mindset. Understand that rejection is a part of the process and does not define your talent or worth. Embrace the fact that setbacks are temporary and keep pushing forward. Remember, every successful actor has faced their fair share of challenges before achieving their dreams. 2. Practice Patience: Patience is a virtue that every actor must develop. The entertainment industry is highly competitive, and success rarely happens overnight. It's essential to un...
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Mastering the Art of Self-Tape Auditions with the MAD LAOTIAN

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In the fast-paced world of auditions, where first impressions can make or break your chances, the importance of meticulous preparation cannot be overstated. Whether you're a seasoned actor or just starting your journey in the industry, mastering the art of self-tape auditions is a crucial skill that can set you apart from the competition. 1. Preparation, Preparation, Preparation: The key to a successful self-tape audition lies in meticulous preparation. Begin by thoroughly understanding the material. Dive deep into the script, analyze your character's motivations, and explore the nuances that make your performance unique. This groundwork not only ensures an authentic portrayal but also boosts your confidence during the audition. 2. Take Your Time: Rushing through the audition process can lead to missed opportunities. Take the time to digest the script, internalize your character, and rehearse until you feel a strong connection to the material. This extra effort will shine throu...
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The Importance of Training as an Actor: Cultivating Skills, Taking Risks, and Creating Opportunities

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The Importance of Training as an Actor: Cultivating Skills, Taking Risks, and Creating Opportunities Introduction: In the world of acting, talent alone is not enough to guarantee success. It is the continuous training and cultivation of skills that sets actors apart and prepares them for the opportunities that come their way. In this blog, we will explore the significance of training as an actor, the importance of taking risks and embracing failure, and the idea of creating opportunities rather than waiting for them to come knocking. 1. Cultivating Skills: Just like any other craft, acting requires constant honing of skills. Training allows actors to develop their craft, refine their techniques, and explore different styles and approaches. Whether it's through acting classes, workshops, or working with a mentor, training provides actors with the tools they need to excel in their performances. It helps them understand the nuances of character development, emotional range, and effec...
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