NEW YORK, NY – The New York theatrical landscape is about to receive an injection of fresh energy and talent with the directorial and producing debut of Venezuelan artist Valentina Avila, a multifaceted creative who is redefining the role of the modern theatre-maker. Freshly graduated from the prestigious Stella Adler Acting Studio and holding a BFA in Acting and Directing from Central Michigan University, Avila introduces herself to the New York audience with *The Wish*, a collection of scenes that harnesses live theatre as a transformative force in the face of recent sociopolitical shifts.
Valentina is not just an accomplished actress with credits including Ophelia (*Hamlet*) and Mrs. Soames (*Our Town*), but a technical and academic powerhouse. Her extensive background encompasses experience in lighting design, sound design, and stage management, complemented by prestigious accolades such as “The Bettisworth Endowed Scholarship in Directing” and an Irene Ryan Award nomination for acting.
Avila is the epitome of the complete artist: a creative force with deep academic roots and a bold vision for the future of theatre. Her ability to pivot from interpreting iconic roles to leading the technical and artistic vision of a production is what establishes her as a truly exceptional talent.
The Wish: A Punk Reflection on Crisis and Community
*The Wish* marks the launch of Fruit Fly Theatre Company, a new company co-founded by Ávila alongside fellow Stella Adler alumnae, Valentine Alvarado and Naomi Orange. Rooted in the “collaboration and stage art” punk ideology, Fruit Fly Theatre is dedicated to creating a safe space for telling the stories of underrepresented voices and using theatre to address “modern struggles, both global and domestic.”
The play is an urgent and creative exploration of how people cope with the aftermath of major political climate changes in recent years, examining the fragility of certain rights. *The Wish* breaks the mold with a vibrant mix of humor, personal narratives, dance, poetry… and spells!
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
• Play: The Wish
• Dates: November 15 and 16, 2025
• Venue: Pluto’s Loft, Manhattan, New York
• Company: Fruit Fly Theatre Company (Debut)
• Team: An international cast of 11 and a production team of 15, led by Valentina Avila (Director/Producer), Naomi Orange (Assistant Director/Actor/Producer), and Valentine Alvarado (Actor/Producer).
*The Wish* is not just a debut for Ávila and her company; it is a statement of intent. It is a call to action and community, demonstrating that live theatre remains a powerful tool for change and self-expression in times of uncertainty.
Key Highlights on Valentina Avila
• Comprehensive Artist: Mastery in acting, directing, lighting, and sound design.
• Elite Training: Graduate of Stella Adler Acting Studio (NY) and Central Michigan University (BFA in Acting and Directing).
• Audacious Leadership: NYC directorial and producing debut, heading her own theatrical company, Fruit Fly Theatre Company, with a “punk” and inclusive philosophy.
• Academic Recognition: Multiple awards, including a Directing scholarship and an Irene Ryan award nomination for acting.
