Welcome to RiffRaff NYC, where the spotlight shines on diversity, creativity, and the vibrant tapestry of immigrant stories.
We are a passionate New York-based company dedicated to producing professional and high-quality theater and film, with a special focus on amplifying the voices of immigrant actors.
Our Mission: Empowering Through Art
At RiffRaff NYC, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling. Our mission is to create a space where immigrant voices can thrive, providing a platform for talented actors who may face barriers in the industry. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive community that embraces the richness of cultural diversity.
We firmly believe in the power of representation. In every production we undertake, RiffRaff NYC is committed to featuring at least 50% immigrant actors. This dedication ensures that the narratives we bring to life are authentic, reflective of the world we live in, and resonate with a broad audience.
Our Collaborative Approach: Bringing Stories to Life
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We work closely with talented writers, directors, and actors to produce compelling and thought-provoking performances. Through our projects, we aim to challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and spark conversations that matter.
A Home for Actors Between Gigs
RiffRaff NYC is more than a production company; we are an actor's gym, a haven for those in between gigs. We understand the challenges that artists face when navigating the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. Our doors are open to actors seeking a creative outlet, a supportive community, and opportunities to hone their craft.
News and Events
NEWSRogue Theatre Festival & RiffRaff NYC
Immigrants in America Festival. It's the collab you never knew you needed! We've got 10 brand new short plays coming your way this December with one lucky winner being guaranteed a free slot in the fully staged performances of Rogue Theater Festival in 2025.
UPCOMINGRiffRaff FilmFest
“Immigrants in New York” Showcase
PAST
Core Members
Dorothea Gloria. Co-founder / Co-artistic director
Dorothea is an artist from Manila, Philippines. She is currently a teaching artist in several New York city schools as well as a resident artist for Spellbound Theatre and Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre. She has performed for La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club, Rattlestick Playwrights, Lucille Lortel Theater, and …
Joe Staton. Co-founder / Co-artistic director
Joe is an alumnus of the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York and the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. Originally from Minehead, Somerset in the UK, he spent most of his childhood growing up in France and Spain. He just completed a run of Romeo and Juliet, starring Aria Shaghasemi of the TV series …
Amandalyn McLellan. Core member
Amandalyn McLellan is an award-winning actress, director, and singer-songwriter, originally from a small coastal town in Massachusetts. She began acting at the age of eight and continued to passionately pursue her craft, leading her to NYC. She is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts and has attended both The Stella Adler Studio of Acting and Stonestreet Film Studios.
Mila Besson. Core member
Mila is a French and Italian actress, director, writer, based in New York City. Graduated from The Cours Florent in Paris and The Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City, she performs for the stage and the camera in French, Italian, English and Spanish. Her recent credit for theater are ‘Not My Circus’ by Duncan Pflaster at The Chain Theater ; ’Falling’ by Bill Bowers …
Blog
Welcome to the Vibrant World of RiffRaff NYC
RECENT POSTJanuary 3, 2024DOROTHEA GLORIA
JOE STATON
Welcome to the vibrant world of RiffRaff NYC, where we invite you to join us on a creative odyssey that celebrates the diverse voices of immigrant actors in the heart of New York City.
As actors, directors, and producers, our journeys have traversed continents and cultures, shaping a collective vision for RiffRaff NYC. Our paths converged at the prestigious Stella Adler Studio in New York City, igniting a shared passion for storytelling and a commitment to giving a voice to those who, like us, have known the challenges and triumphs of being immigrants.
The name "RiffRaff" is drawn from a hilarious line spoken by Jason Isaacs in the film "Dragonheart": "I should have known… foreign riffraff." Despite its hilarious delivery, it also encapsulates the essence of our mission — to amplify the stories and experiences of immigrant actors, celebrating the richness they bring to the world of theatre and film.
Get Involved: Join the RiffRaff NYC Community
Whether you're an actor, writer, director, or simply a lover of powerful storytelling, there's a place for you at RiffRaff NYC. Join us on this exciting journey as we celebrate the strength and resilience of immigrant voices in the world of theater and film.