Richard's remarkable professional odyssey commenced at the impressionable age of twelve in the picturesque region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where he made his auspicious debut as a thespian in a captivating production of the critically acclaimed play "That Championship Season", expertly directed by the illustrious Pulitzer Prize winner Jason Miller, who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship to the young Richard as he embarked on his thrilling journey in the world of acting.
He embarked upon an undergraduate academic journey at West Virginia University, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors, before making a pivotal career move to the vibrant and rapidly evolving independent film scene in New York City during the 1990s.
Richard's academic endeavors persisted as he pursued higher education at the esteemed New School for Social Research, a renowned institution that offers a unique blend of social sciences and arts, and the Actors Studio Drama School, a prestigious school that has produced some of the most talented and acclaimed actors in the industry.
Richard's impressive academic credentials served as a springboard to a distinguished professional career, with a notable stint as the Head of Operations at the esteemed Signature Theater Company in New York, where he worked under the visionary direction of James Houghton for a period of two years.
He subsequently accepted a prestigious senior administrator position at The New School/ASDS, where he dedicated himself to spearheading the strategic expansion of the institution's Repertory season, television show, and campus infrastructure.
Richard, a visionary entrepreneur, co-founded the renowned Epic Repertory Theater in the bustling metropolis of New York City, where he spearheaded an impressive production slate of nearly 24 Off-Broadway plays within a remarkably concise three-year timeframe.
This remarkable achievement was marked by the premieres of several notable works penned by esteemed playwrights, including the celebrated David Auburn, the accomplished JT Rogers, the distinguished Romulus Linney, and the respected Lee Blessing.
Through his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, Richard played a pivotal role in bringing these remarkable stories to life, solidifying his reputation as a driving force in the world of Off-Broadway theater.
As his professional trajectory continued to unfold, he embarked upon a series of esteemed leadership positions at the esteemed Eugene O'Neill Memorial Theatre Center, where he served as Associate Artistic Director, Interim Artistic Director, and ultimately, Producing Director.
During his tenure at the esteemed institution, he is credited with successfully revitalizing the center's national programs, thereby restoring confidence and prestige to the organization. This notable achievement was largely attributed to his astute decision to bring on board a talented team of individuals, including the accomplished Michael Bush, the accomplished Wendy C. Goldberg, and the acclaimed Oz Scott.
Richard's tenure at the O'Neill Theatre Center was marked by the development of a diverse array of projects, with a notable focus on innovative and boundary-pushing works. Two of the most significant productions to emerge under his leadership were the musical "In the Heights" and the critically acclaimed "{title of show}", both of which have had the privilege of premiering at nearly every major regional theater in the United States, a testament to their enduring appeal and artistic merit.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of "In the Heights", has gone on to become a household name, with his work on the musical and other projects earning him numerous awards and accolades.
Richard's illustrious career has been marked by a profound association with the esteemed institution of The Actors Studio, an organization that has played a pivotal role in nurturing his artistic growth and development as a thespian.
The cinematic endeavors of this individual have resulted in a lasting and significant contribution to the esteemed Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) Collection, a testament to his enduring influence on the world of film.
In addition to his illustrious career in the entertainment industry, this remarkable individual has also demonstrated a profound commitment to global humanitarian efforts, having served as a vocal advocate for the United Nations and the Universal Forum of Cultures in Barcelona during the pivotal year of 2004.
Richard is a prominent figure within the esteemed organizations of the Dramatists Guild and The Stage Directors and Choreographers, a testament to his dedication and expertise in the world of theatre. Furthermore, he has taken on a vital role as a mentor for the Kennedy Center's Arts In Crisis program, where he lends his guidance and support to individuals navigating the challenges of the arts industry.
