Camila Figueiras Meriggi: Beyond the Spotlight

Behind every powerhouse performance and sold-out show is a visionary steering the ship. In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Cami Figueiras Meriggi, the Executive Producer and driving force behind Chasing Dreams. From the logistical hurdles of producing in the heart of Manhattan to the deeply personal mission of elevating international voices, Cami pulls back the curtain on what it takes to build a global stage in New York City. Join us as she reflects on the growth of the collective, the upcoming shows and why building a home for immigrant artists is the most rewarding "dream" she’s ever chased.

As the Executive Producer, what was the specific 'aha!' moment or gap in the New York industry that made you realize Chasing Dreams absolutely had to exist?

At the time we were both latinx artists trying to find a spot in the industry, we had a lot of international friends and colleagues who were struggling to find jobs just because of where we come from, because of our accent and the way we look. There were few chances for international artists to show themselves. Due to this, we felt the need to create something for us to raise our voices and fight for the dreams we all came to chase. Chasing Dreams needed to exist to help all these people.

You manage a team and cast spread across different time zones and countries. What is the biggest challenge—and the biggest reward—of producing a high-caliber NYC show with a global remote team?

The biggest challenge is the time difference. Finding a time in which we are all available and awake is hard, but we make it work. The biggest reward is looking back and seeing how many shows we’ve done so far. Moreover, the feedback from the artists is the most rewarding thing among all, that works as a booster to keep doing what we do. People reach out to thank us for the space and for inspiring them to keep chasing their dreams and never give up. Afterwards, when we see our artist thrive, I feel like a proud mama.  I love going  to sleep knowing that we make a change in the industry. 

New York City is constantly changing, especially for the international community. Why do you feel that a platform like Chasing Dreams is more essential in 2026 than it was when you first started?

I think it remains essential because we proved that there was a need which is still there. Although we might be covering this need now, it needs to be constantly covered. The first artists in Chasing Dreams were emerging artists and nowadays they are having successful careers. It’s essential for us to keep working to be the best versions of ourselves as a company and keep helping them. 

Looking back at the very first Chasing Dreams show to where you are now, what is the biggest way you’ve grown as an Executive Producer—and what has stayed exactly the same about your mission?

I would say that what stayed the same made me change. I never lost my essence, my personality or values. We (team) have a very clear mission and goal. This hasn’t changed through the years. It keeps us fighting to make it work and happen. The biggest lesson was accepting that every mistake is an opportunity to learn and keep growing. I learned how to be an executive producer by being one. Everything I learned was from my mistakes. There were “situations” in which I had to deal with so many stressful things and somehow I managed it because at the end of the day I had tools and my personality also helped a lot to manage those things and solve the problems. That is basically my main job, to solve problems. I have to be on top of everything to ensure that the show goes on, but I also rely on my team. Every show has different challenges. 

Beyond the logistics and the spreadsheets, what is the single thing you love most about being part of the Chasing Dreams family on a personal level?

It  connects me with my passion for performing. It fills my heart with so much happiness. I am the happiest person when we do this because I know how many people we are helping with it. I’m very proud of how far we’ve come. 

Production in NYC is notoriously difficult, especially for international creators. What is one piece of 'executive' advice you would give to another immigrant artist looking to produce their own work in the city?

Do it! We all have ghosts in our heads or people that without realising cut our wings and we do not dare to fly and go beyond. Listen to your inner voice, if you feel that you have the desiree and tools to do it, try it! At least try, you will learn a lot by trying. No matter how big or small the dream is, chase it. Trust the process.

You said you learnt a lot from your journey with Chasing Dreams. What is your favorite memory?

Fun fact, It was the most stressful show we’ve ever made. It was during one of our shows in Argentina. We arrived at the venue to learn that the manager forgot to book our date, we were not on their schedule. You can imagine that nothing was ready. The tech person was not even there until halfway through the show. I don’t know how we did it. I was like “There’s no way we are doing this show”, but long story short we ended up doing it and everything was fine, we just started extremely late. 

Another favorite memory is my last show in New York. I miss performing there so much, feeling the energy of that room. It was our last show together as a team, so I will always remember it. 

Finally, Would you like to say something to the Chasing Dreams Community?

Thank you! Thank you for trusting us and being part of our family. Our doors are always open for everyone who’s been part of this project and those who would like to join us. Thank you for sharing your passion and heart with us. We wouldn’t be here if it weren't for all the international artists who believe in our goals.