From First Climb to First Professional Contract: Celebrating Soleil Chang
There are moments as a teacher when you get to stop, look at a young artist you have watched grow, and think: Look how far she has come.
From Rehearsal to the Spotlight
Soleil Chang Reflects on Her Professional Circus Contract at Dell Dinner Theatre
FADCA alumna Soleil Chang has taken another exciting step in her professional career with a circus contract at Dell Dinner Theatre. From daily rehearsals to meeting audience members after each performance, Soleil shares what she has discovered about trust, collaboration and the extraordinary work that happens behind the scenes.
Becoming Part of the Magic
Rehearsing for this show has been such a special experience. There is something incredibly fulfilling about walking into the theater every day and watching all the pieces slowly come together.
Being part of the professional process alongside so many talented artists has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. It has reminded me to remain curious and present—and to take something new from the experience every day.
I haven’t felt much pressure because I came into this opportunity knowing that if I could simply be myself and remain willing to learn, everything would unfold as it should. That is exactly what has happened.
Everyone involved in the production—from the directors and cast to wardrobe, stage management and the technical team—has been incredibly supportive and excited to create together.
One thing that has surprised me is just how much goes into what the audience eventually sees. The wardrobe and set details, lighting, technical elements and moments of trust between performers all work together to create the magic. I am so grateful to be one small part of making that magic possible.
One of my favorite parts of the experience is the meet-and-greet after each show. Guests have the opportunity to see that behind the costumes, makeup and performance, we are real people too.
I have been deeply moved by the connections we make during those moments—and by seeing how much a smile, a conversation or even a few minutes of our time can mean to someone.
