Our Team

At Moonriver Theatre Company, our team is the heart of everything we create. United by a deep love for storytelling and a shared belief in the power of compassion, we come together as artists, collaborators, and community builders. Each member brings their own voice, passion, and purpose, but we are bound by a common goal: to create meaningful theatre that uplifts, connects, and inspires. At Moonriver, we don’t just make art—we cultivate a space where creativity flows freely, kindness leads the way, and every story is treated with care.

John paul rivard

CO-FOUNDER & ARTISITC DIRECTOR

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John Paul Rivard is a director, performer, and multidisciplinary theater artist with nearly three decades of experience in musical theater. With 27 years as a performer and over 25 years working as a director, choreographer, costume designer, and wig designer, he brings a deeply holistic and actor-centered approach to storytelling.

Originally from the Bay Area, Rivard is a graduate of the Solano Actors Training Program and has trained extensively in voice, movement, classical text, and theatrical design under respected mentors across disciplines. His wide-ranging background informs work that is visually intentional, emotionally grounded, and ensemble-driven.

Since 2017, Rivard has contributed to more than 40 productions throughout the Reno–Tahoe region, collaborating with organizations including Western Nevada Musical Theatre Company, Reno Little Theater, Brüka Theatre, Truckee Community Theater, TMCC, and others. His directing and choreography credits include A Chorus Line, Into the Woods, Once on This Island, White Christmas, and Side Show.

As a founder and Artistic Director of Moonriver Theatre Company, Rivard is committed to creating an inclusive artistic home rooted in belonging, courage, and radical self-expression. His work centers emotionally honest storytelling and the belief that when artists are seen, supported, and free, their voices have the power to change the world.

rose sambrano

CO-FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

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Rose Sambrano has been immersed in the art of theatre throughout her life, with a passion that has deepened and flourished over the past fifteen years. A director, prop master, and performer, she approaches each production with a visionary eye, a collaborative spirit, and a profound respect for the storytelling process.

Rose’s work is guided by the belief that theatre is a powerful force for connection, transformation, and illumination of the human experience. As a director, her credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, King Henry V, Christmas with the Crawfords, Side Show, and Ride the Cyclone, each reflecting her commitment to emotionally grounded performance and imaginative world-building.

As a founder and creative leader of Moonriver Theatre Company, Rose is dedicated to cultivating bold creativity, meaningful connection, and a welcoming artistic home. She strives to create spaces where artists feel supported, challenged, and inspired—where imagination and community flow together in harmony, and where theatre becomes both a mirror and a bridge between people.