Raphael Louis Buenaventura

“Raphael Louis Buenaventura is a Bay Area-based Production Stage Manager, director, and occasional actor with over five years of experience in live theatre. With a foundation rooted in collaboration, clear communication, and intuitive problem-solving, Raphael brings an adaptive and deeply human approach to every project. They have stage-managed a wide range of productions, from intimate new works to ensemble-driven performances, and are especially passionate about queer-centered and community-based theatre.

Recent credits include The Radicalization of Rolfe (JT Presents), Cursebreaker (Bindlestiff Studio), and DemoniAc (Schaeffer Nelson), among many others. Known for his calm under pressure and capacity to support artists while holding the larger vision, Raphael thrives in fast-paced environments where flexibility, care, and precision are essential.

Beyond stage management, Raphael is an emerging director whose work centers curiosity, emotional nuance, and the strengths each actor brings into the room. Their recent directorial projects include Cursebreaker, a new work developed through Bindlestiff’s “Queer As F*ck” festival. With a background in acting, Raphael understands the craft from multiple angles and fosters rehearsal rooms rooted in safety, play, and exploration.

He currently serves as Executive Director of SF Eagle Players, a new queer theatre company based out of Eagle Bar SF, and are committed to cultivating inclusive, artist-led processes that amplify underrepresented voices. Whether backstage, onstage, or behind the table, Raphael remains devoted to creating meaningful and impactful live performance experiences.