The Gammage Residency

Christopher Rivas is a Rothschild Social Impact Fellow and one of today’s most dynamic storytellers as an actor, author, filmmaker, podcaster, and playwright. Born and raised in Queens, New York—home to 138 different spoken languages—Chris draws inspiration from his upbringing to create art and tell stories that bridges cultures and creates spaces of belonging.

His first book, “Brown Enough” explores what it means to be Brown in a Black/white world (it is now required reading and curricula in schools across the country). His second book, “You’re A Good Swimmer,” is an inclusive exploration of conception, reminding readers that being born is the biggest win of all. His writings have been featured in The New York Times, Boston Globe, The Emancipator, Zocalo, and Tricycle, the Buddhist Review to name a few. 

His live shows tour all over the world. His films have been featured in The New York Times, Outside Magazine, and have won festivals across the nation. Chris hosts two podcasts: Brown Enough, which parallels the themes of his book through engaging interviews, and Rubirosa, a documentary based on his solo show, The Real James Bond Was Dominican! It investigatesPorfirio Rubirosa, the Dominican inspiration behind James Bond. On TV, Chris is known for his role on the Fox series Call Me Kat, starring opposite Mayim Bialik.

Across his work, Chris weaves cultural reflection and personal insight to create art that heals, empowers, and inspires. In November Chris will be premiering his work, How To Get Free at Gammage as a part of the Beyond series. 

Visit his website www.christopherrivas.com
Instagram: @christopher__rivas

Throughout the 2025-2026, 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 academic years, Rivas will perform, teach and model excellence and connect communities on and off ASU campuses.