(Entertainment-NewsWire.com, May 30, 2014 ) Los Angeles, CA -- Los Angeles actor/producer Riva Di Paola is passionate about nurturing new artists and creating innovative new work.
So she formed a nonprofit organization called FRESH PRODUCE'd ((official website)official website),which provides a forum for up-and-coming screenwriters, playwrights, actors and directors. Founded in New York City two years ago, Riva brought together actors and directors from the top theatre schools in the country to help fledging writers develop original and experimental new work. FRESH PRODUCE'd now has a branch in Los Angeles.
“It’s a platform for the next generation of playwrights and storytellers to have their voices heard,” explained Di Paola.
Each month, new writers submit original pieces that are performed live on the FRESH PRODUCE'd L.A. stage. The organization’s staff combines its core cast members with local guest actors and works with directors to develop the piece. Three new short plays or screenplays hit the stage on the third Thursday of every month.
Since the new branch opened, FRESH PRODUCE'd L.A. has produced 36 new works, collaborated with more than 200 artists and helped to promote the work of dozens of writers from all over the country.
“We welcome works in all phases of development,” said Di Paola. “We work closely with writers to tailor the rehearsals and performances to the needs of their pieces, from staged readings, to modestly-staged productions.”
FRESH PRODUCE'd L.A. monthly workshops offer screenwriters and playwrights valuable feedback from industry professionals as well as their peers. In addition, they offer actors and directors a community to grow in. and a place to be seen by casting directors and producers.
Part of the revenue necessary for running this operation comes from the modest $5 suggested donation for performances and workshops. It takes a lot more money, however, to produce and stage events. Di Paola is looking to raise $10,000 to keep FRESH PRODUCE'd L.A. active and growing.
Toward that end, she has launched a Kickstarter campaign, which can be viewed at the Kickstarter site.
Donations of any amount are welcome. For contributions of $50 and more, backers can receive T-shirts, opportunities to perform onstage and sponsorships.
In a short period of time, FRESH PRODUCE'd L.A. has developed a strong local following. Performances and workshops have been held in front of enthusiastic, standing-room-only crowds.
“This is a wonderful way to discover new talent,” said JV Lombardi, creative executive at Quadrant Pictures.
