We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rissa Lavilla. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rissa below.
Rissa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
Growing up I was always drawn to the arts in general. I learned early on I am definitely not a drawer or painter etc. but learned that I am musically inclined- It was easy for me to pick up an instrument and learn to play. I actually wanted to pursue music growing up but that all changed once I figured out other forms of art like videography and video editing. Time consuming and tedious sometimes, but I had a passion for it. That was when I decided to get in the tv/film production route. Ultimately something led me to theatre though and is probably the reason why I get to do this interview today. During the pandemic when Broadway reopened I saw my first ever show and it was Waitress. I am a huge fan of Sara Bareilles so it was exciting to see her in the musical she wrote. After watching Waitress something clicked in my mind and I started asking myself how do I do this? How do I get to become a part of that and be able to contribute to put something on stage like this. How can I make people feel the ways I did watching Waitress? I kind of pondered that thought for a year and then this whimsical Off-Broadway show called Between The Lines came out and that’s when I took action. That musical is about living the story you want, if it’s not the one you’re currently in and that resonated so much that I decided what the heck am I waiting for and basically started pitching myself to the theatre community. Theatre gave me a rush that previous jobs never gave me- I kept trying and trying until I got somewhere. I’m wouldn’t say right now I “made it” yet, but I know I’m not where I was and I should be proud of that. I guess that’s what made me pursue all the routes I took up until now.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
The way people get into the entertainment or theatre industry in general are all going to be different. As mentioned previously, I really just got in by marketing myself to people in the industry. As much as cold emails and calls go- that’s exactly the stuff I did to get my foot in the door at places and with people. There will be a lot of people who say no, ignore you, in fact maybe even be annoyed by you- but there will the be people that honor your ambition and drive. There will be people who say yes. You need to have thick skin to be in this industry and just keep going.
As a Producer I get to work with many people in the creative and production side working alongside directors, casting, talent, lighting, videographers, etc the list really goes on and on since Producers put’s it all together. I think what everyone learns quickly about me is I really value inclusion. I really try to create space for underrepresented communities in any production or show I do. I understand being looked at and treated different. Everyone deserves a fair chance and personally going through this as a Queer woman of color, it’s hard sometimes. I’m very appreciative of the communities that Amplify these voices.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Oh wow. VERY pertinent to right now but looking back when I first started to do anything in theatre, I got taken advantage of a few times. But even being aware of that, I kept going. I still feel like there’s a lot to learn as I’ve only been in theatre for 3 years now, but I’ve learned to advocate when needed and honestly where to and who to give my energy to… I’ve learned if it disrupts your peace and/or happiness, whatever it may be, it is not worth your time. And not everyone deserves to know all parts of you. There may be people who are jealous or have ill intention with you and that’s definitely something to look out for- but find your community. Find your people. They’re out there and they’re going to love you just as you are.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I think the most rewarding aspect about being a creative is connecting with others in the industry. If you asked me would I be working with so and so a few years ago, I would’ve laughed. Like no way I would be able to meet these talented beings let alone work with them or be their friend! Fast forward to the present, anything is actually possible. There’s something about seeing an artist work whether it be on stage or screen and being able to connect off that then eventually create/collaborate on something together. It’s also rewarding and I speak for many others when I say this, is seeing the final product. All the hard work, long days, and countless nights are worth it once it’s the day of opening or premiering the show.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rissalavilla.com
- Instagram: @rissalavilla
Image Credits
Thomas Mundell, Manuel Perez, and Robert Quiles