RiffRaff NYC, the dynamic theater collective known for its bold reimaginings of classic works, closed out 2024 with a sensational run of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Directed by co-founder Joe Staton and featuring a stunning nightclub setting designed by Hayley Pace, the production captivated audiences and critics alike. The entire cast delivered exceptional performances, with standout portrayals by Australian actress Liz Cooper as Helena, British actress Danielle Kendler-Rhodes as Hermia, and American actors Patrick-Troy Brandt and Juliana Wheeler as Theseus/Oberon and Hippolyta/Titania. Frank Pagliaro’s Bottom was another highlight, bringing humor and heart to the stage. Every member of the ensemble contributed to the production’s phenomenal success, making it a perfect way for RiffRaff to end the year on a high note.
Kicking Off 2025 with Meaningful Art
The company wasted no time diving into the new year with Love-Letter Through History, a one-night event at Tiny Baby Black Box Theatre in Greenwich Village. This intimate performance, held just before Valentine’s Day, featured a diverse cast (in keeping with RiffRaff’s commitment to casting at least 50% immigrant actors) performing real love letters from historical figures. The evening was filled with unforgettable moments, including Max Johnsson’s charismatic delivery of a Pablo Picasso letter, Valentine Smith-Vaniz’s bilingual performance of Juliette Drouet’s words to Victor Hugo, and Jon-Mykul Bowen’s moving recitation of F.O. Matthiessen’s heartfelt correspondence.
Other stand-out performances: Liam Ashizawa brought the audience to tears with a heartbreaking letter from a Japanese kamikaze pilot to his mother, while Liz Cooper gave a deeply personal reading of an Australian hospital patient’s love letter—written by her own grandmother to the nurse she had fallen in love with. Alessandro Yokoyama delivered a stirring performance of Nelson Mandela’s love letters from prison, leaving an undeniable impact. Given the overwhelming success of the event, RiffRaff is eager to produce more intimate, historically inspired performances like this in the future.
Much Ado in the Vietnam War Era
Looking ahead, RiffRaff NYC is now preparing for its next major production: Much Ado About Nothing. This time, the Shakespearean classic will be set against the backdrop of the final year of the Vietnam War, embracing the spirit of the era with hippie counterculture, free love, and a soundtrack filled with iconic ‘60s and ‘70s hits. The production will be produced by Joe Staton and Amandalyn McLellan, and RiffRaff is currently raising funds to bring this ambitious vision to life. With their signature creative spin, the company aims to deliver a fresh, immersive take on one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. Anyone interested in supporting the production can contribute to their GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/4fca6b6b
The Shape of Her Voice
In addition to their theatrical productions, RiffRaff NYC is also exploring new artistic mediums. On Saturday, April 12th, they will present The Shape of Her Voice, a dance piece featuring RiffRaff co-founder Dorothea Gloria. This production will take place at the Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre as part of the Asian Culture Performing Arts Showcase. Known for its commitment to diverse storytelling, RiffRaff’s foray into dance promises to be just as powerful and thought-provoking as their theatrical work. Tickets for this performance are available here: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36934/production/1233022?performanceId=11608991
Engaging with the Community
Beyond the stage, RiffRaff NYC is also focusing on interactive experiences with theater enthusiasts. In March, they hosted a live Zoom Q&A with the accomplished actor Kevin McNally, best known for his roles in Pirates of the Caribbean, Doctor Who, and The Crown. McNally shared insights from his career, behind-the-scenes stories, and valuable advice for aspiring performers. This event marks the beginning of an exciting series of Q&A sessions that RiffRaff aims to produce in the coming months.
As we step into the fourth month of 2025, one thing is clear: RiffRaff NYC is making waves in the theater world with its innovative productions, diverse casting, and meaningful engagement with audiences. If their past success is any indication, their upcoming projects promise to be nothing short of extraordinary.