From 88 Auditions to Broadway

I’ll never forget the moment it all began. I wondered: This is amazing. How could I possibly be on that stage someday? That question, simple as it was, changed everything.

Hi, I’m Minami Yusui—Broadway performer and founder of YU-Project. My journey in the entertainment industry began in a way that might surprise you: it took 88 auditions just to land my very first job. And it wasn’t Broadway—it was a performance internship. Not glamorous, but deeply meaningful.

The first “YES” came after 87 “No's”. 

Even though it wasn’t glamorous, I felt on top of the world. Yet, it would take me 10 more years to make my Broadway debut. Looking back, I am grateful for every single step—the struggles, the setbacks, and the lessons along the way.

I grew up in a small town in Kanazawa, Japan, where no one around me had ever even seen a Broadway musical. I didn’t speak English. I had no formal training in musical theater. I didn’t look like the typical showgirl—and I was short. But one evening, watching the Tony Awards on TV, I felt something shift inside me. I asked myself that question: “This is amazing. How could I possibly be on that stage someday?

That question sparked a journey of exploration, trial, and failure. I stumbled, made mistakes, and experienced awkward, humbling moments. I doubted myself more times than I can count. But through it all, I never stopped showing up.

Here’s what I’ve learned, and what I want to share with you:

• You don’t have to wait until your dreams come true to feel proud of yourself.

• Confidence doesn’t need to come before you start—you grow it along the way.

• Joy is possible even when no one is clapping.

  
  

This is what YU-Project is about: supporting you to embrace every step of your journey and open the door to unlimited possibilities.

If you’re navigating a career transition, feeling too different to belong, or sensing there’s more inside you—more to give, more to create—you are in the right place. Here, you’ll find stories, tools, and guidance to own your voice, move through fear and rejection, and create a life of purpose, impact, and joy.

You don’t have to do it alone. Let’s rise together—joyfully, confidently, and unapologetically. Because no matter how limited your current circumstances may feel, your life, your choices, and your potential are unlimited.

I’m Minami Yusui, and I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome to YU- Project.

You are Unlimited.

✨If this resonated, you’ll love the full video — watch it here 👇

🎭 Go Behind the Scenes

Ever wondered what it feels like to step into the magic of Broadway?✨ Watch Minami backstage at My Fair Lady and catch a glimpse of her world beyond the spotlight:

👉 Watch on YouTube