When Emmy Chan first stepped through the doors of the Illinois Conservatory for the Arts, she was a bright-eyed student with a passion for storytelling and a spark that lit up every stage she touched. Today, she’s bringing that same spark to audiences across the country as Little Cosette / Young Éponine in the national tour of Les Misérables.
Emmy joined ICA’s pre-professional training programs with an eagerness to grow and a deep love for musical theater. Through IMPACT: Musical Theater and masterclasses with Broadway professionals, she received the rigorous, personalized mentorship that helped her sharpen her technique—and believe in herself.
“ICA taught me how to be brave, how to take risks, and how to work hard,” Emmy says. “The faculty believed in me—and that changed everything.”
While Emmy’s talent was undeniable, it was her work ethic, openness to feedback, and hunger to learn that set her apart. She credits ICA’s unique blend of professional-level training and emotional support with helping her grow as both a performer and a person.
Now, as she travels the country in one of Broadway’s most iconic musicals, Emmy’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when students are given access, opportunity, and belief.
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