Devin Veras: NYC, Identity, and Broadway
Devin Veras performing in Chasing Dreams
Today, we're honored to sit down with Devin Veras, an incredible Afro-Latino artist from San Antonio, Texas, who is fiercely pursuing his dreams in New York City. From training at the New York Conservatory of the Dramatic Arts to booking national commercials and making his Off-Broadway debut, Devin's story is one of determination, authenticity, and a mission to redefine representation in the arts. Join us as he shares his challenges, his biggest lessons, and the big Broadway dream that keeps him motivated.
CD: Tell us about yourself. Where are you originally from, and what led you to New York City?
D: I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. I first got involved in theater when I was ten and discovered my love for musical theater in seventh grade. Five years ago, I came to New York with nothing but a fire in my heart and a passion for the craft. In 2021, I was accepted into the New York Conservatory of the Dramatic Arts, where I trained and graduated with an Associate’s Degree in MT performance in 2023. Since then, I’ve been here pursuing my dream, and every audition, class, and performance is a step closer to the career I’ve envisioned since I was four years old.
CD: Your roots are unique—can you tell us more about your cultural background?
D: Absolutely. My grandmother is from Monterrey, Mexico, and my grandfather is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. I’ve always loved being able to tell my story and relate with other Afro-Latinx performers. Ultimately, thinking about my younger self, the kid who first dreamed of New York at almost four years old, keeps me motivated. I’m doing this for him and for my family.
CD: Beyond your work in dancing, singing, and acting, do you pursue any other creative careers?
D: Yes, I actually became a professional model. I had always focused on theater, but I recently got into modeling. I never expected it to take off, but it did! Last year, I signed with an agency, Steps Model Management. Although I’m no longer with them, that relationship led to me booking a national commercial.
CD: What was the experience of shooting a national commercial like?
D: It’s a crazy process—something I will never forget. You basically wake up at like four in the morning to get on set. You get to collaborate with so many other creatives and artists. Honestly, it was one of the coolest things I’ve ever experienced in my life.
CD: What were the biggest challenges you faced moving from Texas to the intense pace of New York City?
D: The biggest challenge was definitely adjusting to the rhythm of New York. Visiting family here is one thing, but living here is a whole different pace. You really have to learn how to adapt and move with the city’s flow. Another major challenge was being away from my immediate family and loved ones back in Texas. But even when it was tough, I knew exactly where I wanted to be: here in New York, pursuing my dream.
CD: How would you describe the difference in drive between the theater scenes in Texas versus New York?
D: The difference is clear: people in New York really, really want it. This is their goal, their dream, and you can tell that. In Texas, the commitment was a mix; you could tell people enjoyed doing it, but it wasn’t necessarily their all-consuming passion. In New York, people come here specifically to pursue this—it’s what they’ve always dreamed of.
CD: What are the biggest lessons your journey has taught you so far?
D: I would say I’ve learned that my voice matters. As an Afro-Latino artist, I use my craft and my perspective to tell stories that challenge expectations but also celebrate my authenticity, my authentic story. My goal is to break barriers within our industry—honoring the past while redefining what representation looks like today.
CD: What does being a part of communities like Chasing Dreams, which aim to generate visibility for Latinx and international performers, mean to you?
D: I’m so happy I discovered Chasing Dreams. I feel like I’ve been able to find my community of other Latinx artists, people who understand the journey, the struggle, and also the immense pride that comes with pursuing a career in the arts. It reminds me that I’m not doing it alone and that there is absolutely space in New York City for my culture, my artistry, and my authenticity.
CD: Auditioning is famously difficult. What is that process like for you, and how do you stay grounded?
D: It’s one of the hardest things to do because it requires putting yourself out there, being out of your comfort zone, and allowing yourself to be seen. It’s also important to be able to train constantly for it. I ground myself through affirmations and prayers so that when I walk into a room, I know I am supposed to be there—it’s for a reason.
CD: What are your current projects, and what can we look forward to next?
D: I just finished filming a music video two days ago, and I have a show coming up at Don’t Tell Mama on September 28th, which is super cool! Last year, I made my Off-Broadway debut in a show called Found Project, thanks to my school, the New York Conservatory.
CD: What dreams are you chasing next?
D: The big goal, of course, is Broadway. Beyond that, I just want to keep creating—whether that’s through dance classes, voice lessons, or performances—anything that sharpens my craft and gets my foot in the door. I just need to stay true to my authentic self. My biggest dream is to play Aladdin on Broadway. Something about his story and journey within the musical resonates so hard with me. After watching it, I envisioned myself in that role so clearly that I know one day I’m going to get there.
CD: Do you have a final message for young artists starting out?
D: I want young artists to know that their voice matters and that they don’t have to change who they are or abandon their authentic self just to succeed in this industry.
Devin’s journey, fueled by his passion and his commitment to his authentic identity, is truly inspiring. His message—that your voice matters and authenticity is the key to success—is one every artist needs to hear. We thank Devin for sharing his experiences, his biggest lessons, and the clear vision he has for his future with us. Be sure to follow his career and watch this dream take flight!
