RACHEL RIVERA
ACTOR DIRECTOR CREATIVE
Born and raised in the Bay Area and now based in New York City, I strive to create and collaborate in work that pushes the boundaries of theater. I focus on new work with a devised approach to make stories through collaboration. I am drawn to theater that is progressive, representative, and reflective of the world we live in.
I am a lesbian, gender nonconforming artist committed to storytelling that expands perspective and invites dialogue. My dream is to make theater for my communities, to begin difficult conversations and to help my people heal each other.
Where we may have met...
Starting Arts
My journey with Starting Arts began when I was 12 years old, and it’s a profound honor to return to my roots as an arts educator collaborating with them. I teach acting and music classes across Bay Area school districts and direct plays and musicals for students of all ages. It is my greatest passion to inspire the next generation of performers, just as my own teachers once inspired me.
American Conservatory Theater
After high school, I began my professional journey with the American Conservatory Theater, immersing myself in a world of stage exploration. Through their conservatory, the San Francisco Semester, and a range of workshops, I was able to flourish and build the foundation for the career I am so proud of today.
Northeastern University
I’m pursuing my BFA at Northeastern University in New York City (formerly Marymount Manhattan College), double majoring in Acting and Directing with a minor in Playwriting. I’m here to grow across every part of making theater, from performing to directing to writing, and to collaborate with artists across New York.
TECTONIC THEATER PROJECT
I interned with Tectonic Theater Project through the Tectonic Institute, where I studied Moment Work as a collaborative method across disciplines alongside more than 100 artists from across the country. I assisted theater artists including Moisés Kaufman, Leigh Fondakowski, and Barbara Pitts, gaining insight into how Tectonic develops new work. I continue with the company as a production assistant on Casa Cushman by Leigh Fondakowski.