RiffRaff NYC, a trailblazing theater company in the heart of the bustling, ever-evolving landscape of New York City, is capturing attention with its unwavering dedication to amplifying immigrant voices and celebrating cultural diversity through the art of storytelling. Co-founded by the dynamic duo Dorothea Gloria and Joe Staton, this innovative company embodies the transformative power of theater, using it as a medium to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and shine a light on the multifaceted experiences of immigrants.
At the core of RiffRaff NYC’s mission is the commitment to feature at least 50% immigrant actors in every production, a bold and necessary step towards inclusivity and representation in an industry where opportunities can often seem scarce for those hailing from diverse backgrounds. This dedication not only enriches the company’s productions with authenticity and depth but also provides a platform for talented actors to shine, share their stories, and connect with audiences on a profoundly personal level.
The company’s latest endeavor, a fundraiser for their first production of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” is a vibrant embodiment of their mission. The production promises to be a groundbreaking event, showcasing the talents of a cast composed of 50% immigrant actors. This initiative is not just about putting on a show; it’s a bold statement about the importance of diversity in the arts and the power of inclusive storytelling to challenge perceptions and build bridges.
In the lead-up to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” RiffRaff NYC is also presenting a showcase titled “Immigrants in New York” at the Court Square Theater from March 8th to 10th. This showcase, featuring five original short plays, serves as a poignant celebration of the immigrant experience in New York City. From the trials and triumphs of British immigrants in Francesca Bolam’s “Dream Card” to the touching exploration of memory and familial bonds in Russell Legaspi’s “Funland,” each play offers a unique lens through which to view the complex tapestry of immigrant life in the city.
The diversity of the showcase’s themes—from the symbolic encounter between a Venezuelan immigrant and the Statue of Liberty in Nicholas Bompart’s “Lady Liberty” to the clowns grappling with disillusionment in Kevin Rios’s “Raw”—reflects the vast spectrum of immigrant experiences. These narratives, rich in emotion and nuanced in perspective, invite audiences to engage with the stories behind the statistics, the personal journeys behind the headlines.
Behind the scenes at RiffRaff NYC, the personal journeys of co-founders Dorothea Gloria and Joe Staton are as inspiring as the narratives they bring to the stage. Both bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision that is deeply embedded in the company’s ethos.
Dorothea Gloria, hailing from Manila, Philippines, has made significant strides in New York’s theater scene, not only as a performer but also as a teaching artist and a resident artist for renowned theater companies. Her journey from acting school to becoming a playwright and producer showcases her desire to create theater on her own terms, embodying the resilience and proactive spirit that RiffRaff NYC stands for. Her accolades, including BroadwayWorld’s Best Featured Actress, and her practices in Bryant Park, where she hones her juggling and flow arts, add a unique dimension to her leadership at RiffRaff NYC.
Joe Staton, with a rich background from the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York and the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London, brings an international perspective shaped by his upbringing in France and Spain. His recent roles in productions like “Romeo and Juliet,” alongside notable actors, and his experience with classical and Shakespearean roles in England, underline his profound impact on the theater company. Staton’s commitment to the craft and his seamless collaboration with Gloria reinforce the idea that like-minded individuals can indeed create something extraordinary.
Together, Gloria and Staton’s combined experiences and skills forge a dynamic partnership at the helm of RiffRaff NYC. Their mutual dedication to amplifying immigrant voices and fostering inclusivity in the arts is what makes RiffRaff NYC not just a theater company, but a movement towards a more diverse and empathetic world of storytelling.
As RiffRaff NYC continues to grow and evolve, its impact extends far beyond the stage. By providing a space where immigrant voices can thrive, the company not only enriches the New York theater scene but also contributes to a larger dialogue about diversity, representation, and the immigrant experience. Their productions are more than just entertainment; they are a call to action, a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the universal language of art.
In a world where the arts are more vital than ever as a means of connection and reflection, RiffRaff NYC stands as a pillar of hope and a source of inspiration. Their commitment to amplifying immigrant voices and celebrating cultural diversity is not just commendable; it is essential. As they prepare to bring “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” to life, one thing is clear: RiffRaff NYC is not just making theater; they’re making history.
For those interested in supporting this vibrant theater company and experiencing the magic of their productions firsthand, tickets for the “Immigrants in New York” showcase are available for purchase here, and donations for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” can be made through their fundraising campaign here. Join RiffRaff NYC in their celebration of diversity, talent, and the enduring power of storytelling. Explore more about RiffRaff NYC on their website and follow them on Instagram to stay updated on their latest projects and initiatives.
