Who are you, where you are from, and how did you start in this field?
Rivera at Schoodic Point
Tell us something you know that we may not know, about yourself or the world.
If every American switched to a mostly vegetarian diet, we could end world hunger. I also have a twin sister, a younger sister, AND twin brothers!
What inspires you and keeps you motivated?
When I tell a story, I see people break open to beauty and majesty, laughing and crying with the exquisite experiences we live through. People heal from sufferings, leap into new ways of perceiving the world, and leave the theater filled with joy at being alive.
Share with us something funny that has happened to you recently.
I was in a grocery store and someone called out, “Oh my god, you’re-” Yes, yes,” I preened, “that nationally touring performer/playwright who performs thirty-plus characters to standing ovations from coast to coast”. The person looked at me funny, “Uh . . . I was going to say, ‘you’re Marada’s twin sister. How’s she doing?” Well, yes, I am that too. Humility goes a long way.
How do you bridge the financial gap between what this profession pays and making a living?
I inspire people to get into the theater AND bring all their friends! I live simply while I am home in Taos, NM. Drive into town once a week, and enjoy walking in the desert. I also share my stories in books that people can buy online or in person.
What’s the best advice for the creative person that someone has given you?
Communicate. Take all your crazy wildness, and find a way to move people in their hearts and souls.
What projects are in the pipeline for you? Do you have a ‘dream’ project?
Two new solo shows are in the hands of our composer who is working on the music for them. A third original play I wrote “Hope at the End of the World” will be debuting in California this winter. My dream project is a Broadway Music about a dawning of spiritual awakening and revolution in American society.
Would you like to share your contact information? How can readers find out more about you?
Check us out online www.risingsundancetheater.com or connect with us through Facebook! Or call us: (575) 776-3973