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...
54 Below
Making her New York City debut (outside of college) in 54 Holds Space. With more appearance's coming soon! Known for her comical belt she is a performer you'll have trouble forgetting. Taking her first tiny step into the big shoes of Broadway's living room. If you have seen me on 54th street or online performing; feel free to connect with me below.
Starting Arts
My journey with Starting Arts began when I was just 12 years old, and it's a profound honor to now return to my roots as an arts educator collaborating with them. I teach acting and music classes across Bay Area school districts and direct musicals and plays 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 completing my primary education, I embarked on my professional journey with the American Conservatory Theater, immersing myself in a world of stage exploration. Through their esteemed conservatory, the San Francisco Semester, and various workshops, I was able to flourish and lay the foundation for the professional career I am so proud of today.
MARYmount Manhatten college
I’m so excited to be at Marymount Manhattan College pursuing my BFA, where I am double majoring in Acting and Directing with a minor in Playwriting. I was drawn to MMC to dive deeper into my passion for performance and directing, and to really focus on growing as an artist across multiple areas of theater-making. I can’t wait to develop my skills, collaborate with new people, and get inspired by everything the NYC arts scene has to offer.
TECTONIC THEATER PROJECT
I had the opportunity to intern with the Tectonic Theater Project through the Tectonic Institute, where I studied Moment Work as a collaborative method across multiple disciplines and worked alongside a community of more than 100 artists from across the country. In this work, I assisted theater-makers including Moisés Kaufman, Leigh Fondakowski, and Barbara Pitts, gaining insight into Tectonic’s collaborative process and the development of new work. I continue to work with the company as an assistant on Casa Cushman by Leigh Fondakowski.