Stage manager Charlette San Juan: ‘I believe in the talent of Asian comedians’

Theater manager Charlette San Juan, is making waves in the Chicago theater scene, championing Asian talent and paving the way for their representation on stage and behind the scenes.

Since moving to the U.S. in 2019, Charlette San Juan has worked on a variety of productions at theaters such as the Second City, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Broadway in Chicago, and Laugh Factory.

In addition to her work as a stage manager, Charlette is also a passionate advocate for Asian representation in the comedy scene. She is the producer of “The Model Majority,” an all-Asian stand-up inspired and created in honor of the hardworking and persevering immigrants who pursue a path in comedy, theatre, and the arts.

“I believe in the talent of Asian comedians, but more importantly, in the significance of providing them a platform to tell their stories,” said San Juan when reached by The FilAm. “I want to see more AAPI stories on stage and more AAPI artists working in all aspects of theater. I believe that everyone deserves to see themselves represented on stage, and I am committed to making that happen.”

Charlette holds degrees in Master of Arts Management from Columbia Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. While in graduate school and new to the city of Chicago, she decided to take improv classes at Second City to get a better grip on American English. This is when she fell in love with comedy. 

Charlette says she got most of her humor from her dad, who lives to make her three daughters laugh.

“With school, and my aspirations with my career, life can be stressful, but improv has reminded me that I shouldn’t take life too seriously. Having humor is the best asset you can have!” she said.

Throughout her career as a stage manager, she has worked with several notable theatre personalities like Lea Salonga, Tony Mabesa, and Dolly de Leon and as she emerges in the comedy scene, she aims to work with high-caliber Filipino comedians as well. Currently, she is a producer for the show “Model Majority: An All-Asian Stand-up Comedy Show”, a vibrant and inclusive celebration that brings together the comedic talents of Asian comedians to create an evening of laughter, cultural exploration, and unforgettable entertainment. It celebrates the diversity of Asian cultures while fostering a sense of unity through humor.

Charlette was inspired by the diversity in Chicago when she started producing shows in the city.

“Working at Laugh Factory, I was instantly inspired by the humor and stories of Asian-American comedians. They can talk about the struggles of being an Asian in America and approach it with humor. I believe my role in this community is to create platforms for them to tell their stories, share their experiences, and make sure we pave the way for the youth.” 

As a stage manager, she is known for her meticulous planning, attention to detail, and ability to bring out the best in her collaborators.

“Charlette is one of the most talented and dedicated stage managers I know,” said Brian Beak, producer and manager at Laugh Factory Chicago. “She is always prepared, always organized, and always has a positive attitude. I am grateful to have her as a colleague and friend.”

To learn more about Charlette and her work, visit charlettesanjuan.com. To support the “Model Majority: All-Asian Stand-up Show,” follow them on IG: @model.majority