Viva Theatre Company

Formed in January of 2016, VIVA has brought together local talent from different backgrounds to create work to be produced in VIVA's upcoming seasons as well as smaller produced workshops and events.

Our writers meet regularly, working on projects independently or prompted by VIVA writer's group leaders.

If you are interested in becoming a part of the group and are over the age of 21, please contact us. No experience necessary. We are happy to help you find your voice.

Email VIVA at vivatheatreco@gmail.com

or contact us on our Facebook page for details on locations, and meeting dates.

MISSION

To use dramatic dialog and performance art to ignite creative and social impact on the community voicing ideas, themes and issues that prove to be important to a collective us;

Both locally and universally transform our society and its members to act more conscientiously and responsibly through their actions and intentions.

Make an impact on future generations by providing real working, social and practical skills through apprenticeships, internships, and experiences related to the staging of dramatic performance art, as well as learning experiences through classes and workshops for the community

Promote social responsibility and engagement through acts of peace, respect and acceptance through the understanding of cultural similarities and differences.å

The Artists

Karen Arredondo-Starr (via Viva)

Karen Arredondo-Starr

Co-Founder: Multi-Disciplinary Artist:

Karen has been working professionally in theatre for about 13 years in various roles. She currently works with the Alamo Colleges having worked in several departments throughout the district. Currently she is at Northeast Lakeview College serving as the Technical Director for the Drama Department. Previously, she has worked with the Tobin Center as their first Head of Carpentry, Wardrobe and Props; Contract Scenic artist/Designer for Classic Theatre of San Antonio, The Overtime, UTSA, The Guadalupe, Jump-Start as well as companies in Austin, Houston, Dallas and Chicago. Karen received her BFA from Texas State University.

Vanessa Rae Garcia (via Viva)

Vanessa Rae Garcia

Co-Founder: Director/Producer

Vanessa has been actively involved in theatre over the past 20 years. She was a co-founder of New York City’s Lone Star Theatre Company. Vanessa acted as a Literary Manager, Producer, and Managing Director for Lone Star. Lone Star is a theatre company designed to give voices to new and emerging Texas artists in New York City. She produced cabarets showcasing original songs of several working artists. In 2013 Vanessa served as an Asst. Stage Manager in Emily Comisar’s Track Twelve as part of the NYC Fringe Festival. Vanessa is a member of the San Antonio Film Society. Some of her film credits include,Wolf by Ya’ke Smith, Lilia, and Squeezebox. She currently serves as a Production Manager/ Co-Owner of Screenville Films, alongside Sam Lerma, and has been teaching theatre for over 8 years.

Holly Clifford (via Viva)