Performing Arts Spotlight: Xinfei “Winnie” Meng, From the GAA Stage to Off-Broadway

For Grade 8 student Xinfei “Winnie” Meng, the stage has become a place to grow, challenge herself, and pursue a passion that continues to take her to exciting new heights.

Most recently, Winnie brought the colorful and mysterious Caterpillar to life in GAA’s production of Alice in Wonderland, adding another memorable role to a performing journey that began on the GAA stage several years ago.

Her love of musical theatre has since extended well beyond school: last summer, Winnie performed the lead role of the Match Girl in an Off-Broadway production in New York, and this summer, she will take another significant step in her development as a performer by attending the Broadway Artists Alliance (BAA) Summer Intensive, a selective pre-professional musical theatre training program.

From school productions to the New York stage, Winnie’s journey reflects her growing confidence, dedication, and love of storytelling through performance. In this student spotlight, she shares how it all began, the role GAA has played in nurturing her passion, and what she has learned along the way.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and when you joined GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi?

My name is Xinfei (Winnie), and I joined GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi in January 2023, when I was in Grade 4. My family had just moved from Beijing, China, to Abu Dhabi, so everything was new to me.

I still vividly remember watching the Elementary School musical production of Aladdin during my second week at GAA. I was amazed by the talent, confidence, and energy of the students on stage. As I watched the performance, I remember thinking, “One day, I hope I can be up there too.”

Joining GAA helped me settle into a new country, make friends, and discover even more opportunities to pursue my passion for the performing arts. Looking back now, it feels incredible that I went from sitting in the audience watching Aladdin to performing in GAA productions myself and continuing to grow as a performer.

What was your first experience performing in a GAA school musical?

My first GAA musical experience was very exciting. I played Moana’s mother, Sina, in the Elementary School production of Moana in January 2024, when I was in Grade 5. I remember feeling both nervous and excited because it was my first time performing in a school production in a new country. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive, and being part of the cast made me feel connected to the school community. It was the moment I truly felt at home at GAA.

That experience gave me the confidence to continue pursuing musical theatre at GAA. The following year, after moving up to Middle School, I was honored to be selected for the lead role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast. Looking back, my first GAA musical was the beginning of an incredible journey that has continued to shape me as a performer.

Since joining GAA in Grade 4, how has your confidence as a performer grown?

My confidence has grown tremendously. When I first joined GAA, I was still adjusting to a new environment. Through school productions, class presentations, and the support of my teachers, I learned to trust myself and become more comfortable performing in front of large audiences. Every role has taught me something new and helped me become a stronger performer.

You recently played the Caterpillar in Alice in Wonderland. What did you enjoy most about bringing this character to life?

The Caterpillar was such a fun character to play because of her unique personality and mysterious nature. I enjoyed experimenting with different movements, expressions, and vocal choices to make the character memorable. One of my favorite parts was performing the Caterpillar’s solo and interacting with Alice on stage. It was exciting to see the audience react to the character and become part of the story.

In addition to playing the Caterpillar, I also performed as a member of the ensemble, playing one of the Cards. For me, every role is important, whether it is a featured character or part of the ensemble. Each role contributes to telling the story, and I always try to give my best performance, regardless of which character I play. Taking on both the Caterpillar and an ensemble role allowed me to experience different sides of the production and appreciate the importance of teamwork in musical theatre.

When did you first discover your love for musical theatre?

I discovered my love for musical theatre when I was very young. I have always loved being on stage, singing, acting, and storytelling, and musical theatre combines all of those things. I gave my first public stage performance in China when I was nine years old, and that was when I realized how much I enjoyed bringing characters to life and sharing stories with an audience. Since then, my passion for musical theatre has only continued to grow.

Last summer, you performed the lead role of the Match Girl in an Off-Broadway production in New York. What was that experience like?

It was an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of my performing journey so far. Playing the lead role of the Match Girl challenged me both as an actress and a singer. I was honored to be selected by Broadway director Greg Ganakas for the production and to perform alongside talented professional Broadway artists.

Performing for public audiences in New York inspired me to work even harder. I learned a great deal about professionalism, teamwork, and storytelling, and the experience strengthened my dream of pursuing musical theatre at a higher level.

How has GAA supported your passion for musical theatre?

GAA has given me incredible opportunities to grow as a performer. The school offers high-quality productions, talented directors and teachers, and a supportive environment where students are encouraged to pursue their interests. Every musical has helped me develop new skills, and my teachers have always believed in me and encouraged me to take on new challenges. I am very grateful for the opportunities GAA has provided.

What advice would you give to younger students who are thinking about auditioning for a school production?

I would tell them to be brave and just go for it! You do not need to be perfect. Auditions are about showing your enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and love of performing. Every performer starts somewhere, and the best way to improve is to step onto the stage and give it a try. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

What makes you most proud of your journey so far?

I am most proud of how much I have grown since moving to Abu Dhabi. Starting over in a new country was a big challenge, but through GAA and musical theatre, I found confidence, friendships, and opportunities that I never imagined.

Looking back, I am proud that I kept pursuing my passion, worked hard, and continued to believe in myself. I am especially grateful that my journey at GAA has helped open doors to experiences such as performing Off-Broadway in New York and being accepted into the Broadway Artists Alliance Summer Intensive. I am excited to see where this journey will take me next.