Biography
Rina Maejima – Singer | Actor | Dancer | Instructor
Rina Maejima is a classically trained singer, actor, dancer, and voice/English instructor (specializing in Japanese students) based in New York. Known for her charming stage presence and vocal versatility, she has captivated audiences in productions such as A Chorus Line, Miss Saigon, The King and I, The Tempest, and CHUSHINGURA 47 RONIN (Off-Broadway), along with various original musicals and plays. As a soprano, she has performed with the production group on Viking Cruise Ships and at the Opera Gala Concert at Carnegie Hall. Her warm yet powerful voice, combined with her natural comedic flair, effortlessly entertains audiences.
Born in a bayside town in Tokyo, Japan, Rina grew up surrounded by the magic of American Golden Age musicals, thanks to her father’s deep love for the arts. Naturally, she fell in love with musical theater and began her artistic journey with classical ballet at the age of three—though she doesn’t quite remember it—before expanding into tap, jazz, theater, and hip-hop.
After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Classical Voice from Tokyo University of the Arts, she set her sights on New York City, where she received two scholarships to attend the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA). There, she fully immersed herself in their rigorous musical theater program.
In 2023, Rina had the honor of performing the American National Anthem at Citi Field for New York’s annual Japanese Heritage Night.
Beyond the stage, Rina has always embraced lifelong learning, a philosophy inspired by her mother’s wisdom:
“Understanding your own culture is essential when living abroad.”
Her curiosity has led her to explore Japanese traditional arts, including kabuki and the tea ceremony, as well as Tate (traditional Japanese sword fighting), Capoeira (Brazilian martial arts), and film action combat.
Rina is also passionate about enriching the performing arts scene in Miyako Island, Okinawa, Japan, where she feels a deep connection with her heritage through her mother’s family. She loves sharing music and theater with the community and has not only performed her own solo concert but also produced live shows, lectures, and even her own radio programs to keep the arts thriving.
At 4’10”, this powerhouse performer continues to grow, push boundaries, and bring her passion for storytelling to audiences worldwide.
Videos
Rina Maejina – No Onoe Else Audition:
Rina Maejina – Singing Reel:
Rina Maejina – American National Anthem