Ria Pavia is a multi-talented and award-winning director, boasting an impressive résumé that spans the realms of film, television, and theater. Her directorial debut, Second Team, garnered over a dozen accolades on the festival circuit between 2020 and 2021, solidifying her position as a rising star in the industry.
In addition to her directorial endeavors, Pavia also works as a dialogue and acting coach, providing private coaching sessions to numerous actors in preparation for auditions. Prior to this, she honed her skills as a stage director, helming over 20 plays and musicals, where she had the privilege of collaborating with renowned actors such as Jennifer Aniston, Noah Wyle, and Mark Ruffalo.
Pavia's foray into film and television represents a new chapter in her career, following a background that includes working as a "punch up" writer for feature films and staff writer on Ask Harriet, starring Ed Asner, as well as Pauly, starring Pauly Shore. Her extensive experience in the industry has also seen her working as a casting associate on classic movies such as Twister, Dead Presidents, and Flirting with Disaster.
Pavia's journey began as a commercial actor, where she secured her "big break" with a memorable gymnastics performance in a tampon commercial in the 1980s. She went on to recur on hit TV shows, including sitcoms like Who's the Boss and The Hughley's, as well as the soap Santa Barbara, before transitioning behind the camera.
Pavia's creative education commenced at Interlochen Arts Academy as a Theatre Major, followed by studies under the renowned Sanford Meisner in the West Indies. She completed her education at UCLA, focusing on theatre, TV, and film. Outside of her professional pursuits, Pavia is a devoted mother to three spirited children: Adrianna (20),Dominic, and Rocco (17). She currently resides in Los Angeles.
