Most Influential 2014: Oanh Nguyen
by Paul Hodgins
Age: 41
Job: Founding artistic director, Chance Theater in Anaheim Hills
Bio: Nguyen, who came to Orange County as a young refugee from Vietnam with his parents, is an accomplished actor whose Hollywood roles include “Rush Hour 3,” “Two Brothers” and “Clockstoppers.” The Anaheim resident launched the Chance Theater in 1999.
Why he’s an influencer: Under Nguyen’s leaderhsip, the Chance is in the midst of an ambitious expansion. In February, the company opened its new theater building, which is twice the size of its predecessor. In October, the Chance announced plans to unveil a second stage in 2015, which will enable it to present 11 productions next year, up from seven this year. To fund this growth, Nguyen helped land some big-money donors, including Wylie and Bette Aitken, who gave $250,000.
Biggest challenge: “We’ve had 50 percent growth in subscribers since unveiling the new theater. As we move to the midsize, we’ve seen the benefits of having a subscriber base. So we are working hard on keeping that base growing. We’re hoping for another 15 percent growth this year. That’s very important to our plans.”
Work philosophy: “I grew up here. I came here in 1975 from Vietnam. I feel very lucky and grateful to have come to Orange County. This is my home. I want to stay here and create the best theater I can for the community.”
Inspiration: South Coast Repertory founders David Emmes and Martin Benson. “Martin has been a strong supporter of our theater and a valued adviser.”
Can’t do without: His board members. “They’ve all been so dedicated and so generous. They made this all possible.”
What’s next: Completing phase two of the expansion, putting on more plays (Chance recently added a Theater for Young Audiences season), and offering performances in a relaxed environment for those who find traditional theatrical settings too formal and challenging.
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