In Memorium/Testimonials

Stories

My sister Paula and Me by Debby Davies
From the minute I was born, Paula always loved me and wanted to show me that there was a bigger world outside of Queens, NYC (aka the uncivilized world). She was 12 years older than me, and as she was our PAULA — she had a lot to show me!
One time she took me to The Russian Tea Room next to Carnegie Hall when I was still quite young. I'm sure it cost her everything she had for rent that month, but she had her priorities! And I was definitely one of them.

We had escargot which I actually liked, and soaked in the old world, opulent atmosphere along with what I am sure of was lots of laughs.
We always could have a good laugh together, even through our tears over the years.
I know for sure that she is sitting here in the chair next to me as I write this, being my champion and supporter as always —a true friend and sister, even from the other side."

My short time with Paula by Gloria Johnson
I became acquainted with Paula J Riley through Steve Hill who I met in the hallways of Mary Manning Walsh nursing home. I took a fall after a stroke and was receiving rehabilitation for my arm, shoulder and leg. At the home I was having problems with a very disagreeable roommate so I spent a lot of my time away from her in my wheelchair in the hallways.
So I got to know Steve over the two months I was there. I told him about my past lives as an opera singer and entertainer before I became a New York real estate agent. He asked if I would like to visit his wife, Paula in the next room. He thought we would have a lot in common.
However, Steve said Paula was entering a period where she was losing the ability to speak. But when I caught sight of Paula something came over me that I can't explain. Everything that had been recently bad was bright and shiny, and my world took on a new perspective. I was the old "Gloria" again, the old "optimistic and happy Gloria." At that moment I fell in love with Paula.

Steve said I could visit Paula anytime. But the nurse’s aids would often wheel me out me if I stayed longer than a half hour.
      Because of my past stroke my emotions are very heightened. I would often cry when they would make me leave Paula’s room.
    I’ve never had a conversation with Paula but I felt I knew her all my life. I would just sit by her bed and hold her hand while she slept. And when I would sleep I dreamed of her and she was with me.
    When it was time for me to return to my apartment in Gramercy Park, I was torn. I was so happy to be able to go home and sleep in my own bed but I knew I would miss Paula. Steve said he would keep me posted on her progress and asked me if I would like to write something about my time
with her.
    My fingers don’t work like they used to so I have a hard time typing. Paula touched something inside me and made this time in my life memorable and very special.

Thank you Paula by Stuart Aion
Few people have impacted my life the way Paula has—my love for Paula has no bounds. Paula managed to open up a part of my heart that had been closed for so very long. Her contagious positive personality and energy sweeps you away to a better place where imagination runs wild and love is honored and embraced.
I have performed with Paula and was directed by her many times. I have been a part of Paula's Spiral Theatre creation from the inception. Paula has always managed to find places within my soul that others cannot even approach. She does that in such an unassuming and compassionate way; she helps me to become a more layered, intimate and spontaneous actor, as well as, a better person.

     On a personal note, Paula has become an integral part of my life and a sanctuary for me on many levels. I always feel "safe" when I am near her and within her calming aura. I visit Paula every week and my heart aches just watching her. It is truly a cruel injustice to have a woman with such a spark for life to be trapped within a body that has "gone the distance". This raises questions about a "loving and forgiving God". Who would want a woman who has soothed, cultivated and encouraged countless people, to suffer so? Ya got me on that one!
    I want to thank Paula for being the type of person the world needs more of, and for adding such happiness, encouragement and love to my life. I could never find a way to thank her enough. Paula will live on in my mind and heart forever.

Destiny by Denise B. Flemming
I’m an actress and playwright, and I’m always looking for connections. In early December of 2014, I emailed Paula J Riley about my one-woman show and that I was looking for a theater and director. On December 12, 2014 she responded, ”Very powerful writing and performing of terrible facts. I am a believer in the use of theater as a means of imperative communication about the world we live in. We are like-minded. Please stay in touch.”
In 2016 I was applying for membership in the League of Professional Theater Woman. I had to have two sponsors (members) to have my name put into possible membership. I attended a mixer where I was told I had to network in search of a second sponsor.

      As I made my way into the crowded room, I noticed a woman walking towards me with a beautiful smile. I extended my hand and introduced myself. She extended her hand and said “I’m Paula J Riley.”
     We shared wonderful conversations. I asked if she would be my sponsor. She flashed that beautiful smile and agreed.
     Working with Paula as dramaturg and director on my one-woman show was an experience I will always treasure. Her knowledge and demands forced me into several re-writes. Very powerful!
    We were destined to meet and share as artists. I will keep that beautiful smile in my heart … forever.

Here Again with Paula by Jacqueline C. Chester
In February of 2016, on a rainy day in New York City in Times Square, I met Paula. As we walked towards each other, she smiled and I smiled and we stopped right there on 42nd Street to talk. We were strangers to each other but here I was talking to this petite lady and she was telling me how she enjoyed living in New York and her involvement with theater. I was impressed with her passion and enthusiasm. We exchanged phone numbers and parted. I had no reason to believe we’d ever talk again for I was leaving for home in Atlanta the next day.
Months later, in April, I submitted the script of my play Here Again to a New York summer festival and was accepted with a stipulation that the actor’s had to be New Yorkers. I almost backed out because I knew of no New York actors, and where would we rehearse, and how could I afford to live in the city until the play opened that September?

But this is where Paula J Riley came in. I gave her a call. She remembered our meeting in February and after explaining my situation she said those magic words, “I’d love to be your director!”
      Paula put heart and soul into Here Again. When I called her and on those occasions when I flew to New York she was always in rehearsal with Here Again. She amassed amazing actors for the various roles. I couldn’t have been more pleased when I saw it on-stage on opening night!
      Unfortunately six months later Paula called to tell me she had been diagnosed with lung cancer. I was devastated because she had become a treasured friend. Paula said no funerals and flowers—only that we might extend a smile to each other. I think I can do that.
     Ah, that sounds so much like Paula! RIP, my friend!

In Memorium

Friends, we don't realize how fragile and temporary all of this is when we've got our nose to the grind. We're always in a rush and working hard. That's fine but please do take the time to stop the mental noise and just relax... and enjoy the company of your family and friends. LOVE THEM LIKE THERE'S NO TOMORROW!
     On July 1st we lost a very dear friend in the business. We are truly heartbroken. Some of you may have known her. I'm talking about a sweet soul who had a true passion for life and who was a huge supporter of actors at her theater. Her name, Paula J Riley. Bernie Furshpan

Paula was an amazing woman with an incredible spirit, and I owe her a great deal for the short time I got to know her. She instilled great confidence in me at a tough time—though she was not really aware (though I'm sure she sensed it!). She came into my life at just the right time, and made me believe that you should never give up--new projects, new adventures, keep creating!--and my life has improved from knowing her. She was kind and giving and an absolute inspiration.
     My wife and I are making a donation to the Statera organization on behalf of Paula. If you are not familiar with Statera, it is an organization dedicated to the positive advancement for women in the arts. It’s a perfect way to honor Paula, we think. Several friends of mine started it. www.staterafoundation.org   Chris Mixon

I was saddened and shocked to hear of Paula's passing. She was such a vibrant soul and indomitable spirit. I loved her too.
     I must have meet her around 2004 or so and she directed one of my plays in the Bad Plays Festival. Then she did that wonderful production The Fiascoes at Baruch College.
     She truly was a force, never gave up on her vision and helped many including me express their vision. We were all privileged to know her. I still can't believe that someone as vibrant as Paula is gone ... well, not truly gone. I was just in Greece at an ancient healing temple in Epidaurus with an adjacent theater, a butterfly kept circling around me and someone said that someone I knew had reincarnated as a butterfly and was giving me a message. I wouldn't doubt that it was Paula. The message was to live at a higher level than the average—and that's what Paula did.
Frederick Timm

I ran into Paula about a year ago and learned about what she was going through. She was truly an immensely spirited and passionate woman with determination! Years and years ago I remember her telling me about this idea that she had for a theatre company….and look how much she accomplished since then.
     My heart is broken to learn of her passing. She will be sorely missed by all the many, many people in her life whose hearts she touched.
     With much sympathy.   Shery Acker

I’m so sorry to hear of Paula’s passing. Thanks for the links/stories.
    Steve’s eulogy was moving, and definitely tissue inducing.
    The differences between designers and actors ring true—so much more comfortable (and controlling) to stand behind our creative work than be the creative work!
    I remember when Steve first met Paula. They moved in together kinda quickly. He knew a good thing.
     And yeah, Paula was all Smiles ’n Sweetheart ’n Honey.
David Feinberg

Paula J Riley coaching testimonials

There are far too many acting coaches out there looking to take your money and run. Paula J Riley thankfully does not fall in that category. She is unbelievably kind, honest and nurturing. Paula is a skilled actress and a gifted teacher. I've been studying with Paula for nearly two years. I decided to take her scene study class (two separate classes for beginners and advanced students). I walked away with a ton of information about myself, the craft and the commitment it takes to reach your goals. I've been studying privately with Paula for a year. She has helped me get a few monologues under my belt. Her PPA process (Primary Principles of Acting) and her emphasis on improvisation has made a huge difference on how I approach any character. Working with her brings a tremendous amount of clarity to my work. I can go on and
on and on for days about her incredible work ethic and dedication, but
you get my drift. If you're looking for an AMAZING acting coach,
look no further! Lenna Parisyan, Actor

To me, Paula is unforgettable. It was the first time I worked with someone where the time was actually taken to allow the full development of a character, making it one of the richest roles I've ever played. She allows the actor to work to his/her potential and not "type". For that, I will always be grateful. Camille Delgado, Actress

Paula has really helped sharpen my skills through her unique blend of acting techniques. She has challenged me to keep the stakes high while working from moment to moment. Training with Paula has improved my confidence, and encouraged me to make stronger acting choices.
Sherri Robinson, Actress

To all that cross this path —take advantage!
Paula J. Riley has been a great force in my auditions and performances. She directed me in both theatre and cabaret for which I received critical acclaim. She has given me tools, and moreover made me aware of the “business” of theatre. Her insight into the art as well as into the individual is a gift worth giving yourself.   Marshall Simon, Actor/Model/Cabaret Performer

On a recent visit to New York from London I was looking to take some acting classes and after email contact with various coaches, Paula fitted the criteria; i.e. honest, professional, experienced and reasonably priced! My expectations were far exceeded; it was clear from the beginning that Paula was not only a very skilled and intuitive acting teacher but someone that cares deeply about nurturing each individual actor so that they may set off, or indeed continue, on the path to realizing their true potential. Paula is interested in a long-term investment with the actor, this is something that was new to me and very welcome —there isn't really such an emphasis on the individual in the UK! My only regret is not being able to stay longer in NYC for more sessions with Paula —they were truly inspiring, helping to cement a self-belief that I am in the right profession with a renewed focus and direction. Many thanks Paula and I very much look forward to working with you again soon.   Archie Whyld, Actor

Paula is a wonderful coach. I had a great time working with her. She taught me more than I've learned since I graduated from conservatory. And as well as teaching me new and valuable craft, She also made me feel cared for.    Chance Parker, Actress

I have always adored Paula as an actress for her creativity and courage, and was delighted to see that she brings that same energy to the stage, as a director.   Linda S. Nelson, Actor, Producer/Shotgun Productions

How does one possibly find adequate words to describe a dynamo like Paula J Riley? She took a vision and the love of a very unique stage and made them into a thriving reality in NYC —The Spiral Theatre Studio —where she directs and puts on plays and musicals that are relevant, tackling difficult issues we all face or will struggle with, that will inspire and lift you up. And she's created all of this on the back of sheer determination and resourcefulness. Especially gutsy about Paula is that she has not been afraid to give new works and new playwrights a shot and it’s paid off. All one has to do is look at the success of her Salt & Pepper Series. Ah, Paula, such a privilege and joy to know you and be touched by your contagious enthusiasm, talent, and undaunted spirit!
Judge Billie Colombaro (Ret.)

The Spiral Theatre presented a fantastic New York premiere of my play, Stories My Grandmother told Me under the direction of the talented Paula J Riley. The quality of the production was excellent and the commitment and dedication of Ms. Riley and the actors were sensational. I believe strongly in the vision of the The Spiral Theatre Studio and think that it is an extremely valuable cultural asset to the city's (and the American theatre's) cultural scene. Ted Swindley, Playwright

It has been such a pleasure working with Paula J Riley and the The Spiral Theatre Studio. I am especially excited about the Salt & Pepper Series and playwright Robert Benjamin. This series looks closely at senior issues, with humor and insight and targets a demographic largely ignored in American theatre today.   Wendy Merritt, Actor/Director

The Spiral Theatre Studio has done an immense service by providing a venue for the voice of the older playwright in NewYork City. Their Salt & Pepper Series is, I believe, unique in the city.
Alyce Mott, Playwright/Producer/Director

Dear Paula J Riley, thank you for your fearlessness and enthusiasm and mentorship and ambition; for paying me one of the greatest compliments I've ever heard; for inspiring in others so many of the beautiful qualities you lived. Thank you for being my teacher at a time when I needed one and the happy accident that brought me into your fold. It'll be a human thing I do if I miss you for the moment, but it won't be long before I remember you and get back to work being and doing and loving and sharing like you always did with me. Thank you for the light on my path. Jesse May

I had the incredible pleasure of getting to work with Paul J Riley in my college years. She was a wonderful gifted soul who was full of life. She lived and breathed for her love of animals, and spent her entire life up until the day she no longer could, fueling her passion for the theatre and the arts. She taught my peers and me how to live fearlessly, be vulnerable, and never give a shit what anyone thought. Her loving partner Steve’s eulogy is a testament to who Paula truly was.
     May she Rest In Peace and her soul be elevated to a beautiful place. If I had to make a guess, I would suspect she is entertaining everyone over at the white pearly gates and working on her next script.   Shari Brittany

Although I knew her only briefly, she made a big difference in my life. Her work lives on with us at Thrown Stone.
    The Spiral Stage’s donated equipment is an essential part of our theater as we present our second season, and the wonderful modular stage system is slated for loan to the other brand new Equity theater here in Ridgefield, for their summer theater camp—to introduce a new generation to the art we all love so much.
    I think of her and your generosity to us every day.   Cyrus Newitt

I've just learned that Paula J Riley has passed away. When I was in NYC, I had a group of performance artists called The Thespian Collective and we would meet every Tuesday and rehearse together and go over techniques. Paula came by when we were at the Theatre for The New City and shared her expertise with us, free of charge. She was kind, patient and caring. R.I.P." Tegan Flanders

Paula was full of wonderful spirit and inspiration and endless creativity. Without her kindness I wouldn’t have had the encouragement to persevere. She was more than an acting coach. She nurtured and believed, and gave me opportunities at a point when I was really down. Thank you, Paula J Riley (PJ). I’ll always be grateful for your guidance, positivity, and having known you. Shannon Van Esley

Ohhhhh, how my heart breaks for our beloved Paula. I thought back to our times together with Devil Dog Six, and what a great spirit she had and how we finally brought it all together in such a terrific production thanks to her faith, talent, energy and perseverance.
      Paula and the Spiral Theatre were such a great, inspired concept, and I'll pray to my angels she's ascended a great spiral staircase to the Gates of Paradise Theatre where she is looking down from the balcony on the rest of us plodding on without her.
      Oh, how she will be missed!! Fengar Gael

I’ve had the honor of being part of The Spiral Theatre Studio since the beginning. I am so impressed with the passion, dedication and inspiration that Paula J. Riley has created in this theatre. Her high standard of excellence permeates every facet of the The Spiral Theatre Studio performances, exude the heart and soul Paula instills in her work. I am so looking forward to watching The Spiral Theatre Studio grow for the good of the community and for its highest good!
Dede Lyons, Founder, Feel Good Express/Mind Body Spirit Lifestyle

I’ve had the extraordinary pleasure of working with Paula J. Riley and her vision, The Spiral Theatre Studio. Before her grand opening, Metropolitan Room hosted several of her events and shows. My wife and I had the opportunity to see a show at The Spiral Theatre Studio in its permanent location in the last year and we were very impressed with how Paula had made a reality of her vision. The Spiral Theatre Studio offers opportunities to playwrights and producers who wouldn’t ordinarily have an opportunity to share their work with an audience. Paula’s work is truly a calling and I honor and support her.
Bernie Furshpan, Managing Partner/Metropolitan Room

When I saw Paula's picture on her website I felt that there was something very special and nurturing about her. And everything I've experienced with her continues to affirm my first impression. Even in the short time I worked with her I feel such a difference in how I view and approach the entire process, knowing I was before just exploring the tip of the process. That is why I referred other actors to her. I felt confident that they too would see and feel the possibilities with Paula at the helm of our development. Paula is truly a soothing voice amidst a sometimes chaotic world. Ed Smith, Actor, "Primary Principals of Acting" student

I've had the pleasure of working with Paula J Riley as an actor at The Spiral Theatre Studio and enjoyed the experience totally. I admire her particular attention to a much needed demographic, our seniors, and her focusing particular attention on the Salt & Pepper Series which sheds some much needed light on the theatrical experience and lives of seniors. Looking forward to her new home.
Judy Stadt, Actor, Radio Host, "Lunch and Judy Show"

Paula just gives you the confidence to believe in your craft and most importantly yourself. She teaches with patience, love and a graceful passion. I met Paula at ActorsFest two years ago and knew right away that she was the one. I was fortunate enough to have made one of the best decisions of my life."
Rene Lopez, Actor, "From Scratch To Script" student

Paula is a teacher and mentor. She has an amazing technique that grounds you in your work and makes you feel like anything is possible. Since I have been working with Paula I have increased confidence when approaching monologues, a better grasp of character development and a better understanding of who I am as an actor.
Ami Martino, Actor working with Bobby Holder

During the fast paced pilot season, Paula really helped me find a way to connect to the material that was thrown at me at a moments notice. In addition, Paula’s improv experience is invaluable.
Elaine Marco, Actress, Dancer, "A Chorus Line"

Paula is wonderful to work with and has helped me a great deal with my Acting work in the US. She is a natural Director and brings out the best performances in her Actors. The Spiral Studio is an exciting and innovative space to work. Fiona Aldridge, Actor

The idea that good things come in small packages has never been more true then when it is applied to Paula Riley’s Spiral Theatre Studio. I had the pleasure of working with Paula this summer on Martin Halpern’s play No Moves Back and so enjoyed the whole undertaking. She is a knowledgeable professional committed to providing a meaningful theatrical experience for both artist and audience. And, with limited resources she was nonetheless able to achieve remarkable results. Her goal of serving the too often neglected “seasoned citizens” audience is important and she does it with style and grace. William Shuman, Actor/Playwright

Cheers for The Spiral Theatre Studio —dedicated to plays featuring the Salt & Pepper and beyond generations. Cheers for The Spiral Theatre Studio —for its minimal sets, costumes and props that enhance the play, the actor and the audience’s experience. Looking forward to acting once again with the company in future productions.
Vivian Meisner, Actor

I am well acquainted with Paula J. Riley and her work with The Spiral Theater Studio. Over the last two years, I have enjoyed her work and am always pleasantly surprised by the professional productions, the caliber of the actors and the focus on senior citizen topics. There is clearly a need for these kinds of productions for an audience deserving to be served.
Earl Wilson, Jr., Songwriter/Playwright