ABOUT ME

Growing up, Rissa Lavilla was drawn to storytelling in all its forms. Her career began in the music industry, expanded into television post-production, and evolved through writing and creative development before finding a lasting home in theatre. These varied paths have shaped her multidisciplinary approach and deep understanding of how stories move from idea to audience.

Today, Rissa’s work centers on producing across theatre and film/TV, while also managing her soon to launch parent production company “House of Lavilla” and Velure, her talent management company. Alongside her creative work, she is actively engaged in entertainment law advocacy.

Rissa proudly represents her multicultural identity as Hawaiian, Filipina, and Spanish, and is passionate about championing diversity, inclusion, and social change within the entertainment landscape. She believes storytelling has the power not only to reflect culture, but to reshape it.

She is an active member of several organizations aligned with these values, including:

  • The Off-Broadway League Supporting and advancing Off-Broadway theatre while serving as a collective voice for its membership.

  • The Drama League

    The preeminent creative development home for directors and their collaborators worldwide.

  • NYCLU Artist Ambassadors Engaging and empowering artists at the intersection of art and social justice.

  • PEAK Pasifika

    Redefining entertainment by uplifting Melanesian, Micronesian, and Polynesian voices through innovative storytelling.

  • Maestra / RISE Theatre Directory Increasing visibility and access for women and nonbinary musicians and theatre professionals.

  • MUSE

    Advancing racial equity in theatrical music departments through mentorship, access, and systemic change.

Through her work, Rissa remains committed to creating spaces where artists are supported, stories are told responsibly, and the industry continues to evolve toward a more inclusive future.

Check out the highlights from Sing Out for Freedom 2023 featuring performances by the NYCLU Artist Ambassadors and more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DPCkVhmaWg

Find out more about these organizations below: