OUR MISSION
At Blended City, we strive to support underserved, New York City based artists in film, theatre, and music through workshops, mentorships, networking, and performance opportunities- fostering growth, connection, and creativity.
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With a strong commitment to uplifting Latinx, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and female-identifying creators, we champion a diverse and inclusive artistic landscape where individuals of all races, genders, sexual orientations, social classes, and physical abilities can boldly share their lived experiences. We bring this mission to life by curating, producing, and developing original films and plays, alongside a range of dynamic in-person and virtual multi-arts events, staged readings, showcases, open mics, performance festivals, film screenings, and educational workshops.
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Our in-person programs activate performance venues, arts centers, and outdoor spaces across NYC’s five boroughs, while our virtual offerings extend our reach globally through platforms like Zoom. As fierce advocates for the transformative power of storytelling, theatricality, and self-expression, we ensure our programming remains accessible- offering free or low-cost opportunities that empower artists and connect communities.
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Blended City is more than a platform; it's a movement that amplifies voices, builds bridges, and reshapes the artistic world
- one story at a time.
CORE VALUES
Blended City’s core values distinguish us from the rest of the industry because we like to keep things on TRACK. We take pride in our values since they are the pillars of our organization, relationships and community.
TRANSPARENCY
Honesty and communication leads to understanding and when we understand one another, we can effectively and efficiently work together to get things done.
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RESPECT
When dealing with different types of individuals, artistries and cultures; we have to actively keep a level of decency and reverence in order to do our work and provide a safe space to create and collaborate.
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ATTITUDE
The right mind set, the right energy and the right vibes keeps things fresh and fun, so we can move forward gracefully in a more just, sustainable and progressive society.
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COMMUNITY
Teamwork and collaborations help define an organization and we at Blended City strive to connect and support artists to build a genuine network of relationships, audiences, and community members we serve.
KNOWLEDGE
Learning from others and others learning from you is a beautiful step in growth and building yourself to be a better you. We are always striving to obtain more than what we knew yesterday, so we stop, listen and learn.
MEET THE TEAM
Ashley L. Canfield (she/her)
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Ashley, a Bronx-born Puerto Rican, is an award winning producer, director, and writer. Her play 'Dirt is Where Flowers Grow' premiered in NYC in 2017 at Teatro La Tea. She has also co-produced and directed notable stage plays like 'Happy Tuesday' with Columbia University's Living Lab and 'Rough Magic' by Robert Aguirre-Sacasa with The Nuyorican Poets Cafe. In 2023, Ashley launched Wyld Child, a production company dedicated to creating films that explore universal human experiences and resonate with diverse audiences. Her film credits include 'POKENO' (2022), 'Papi' (2024), and 'Closure' (2025). Ashley holds a certification in Nonprofit Leadership and Governance from the University of Buffalo.
Omar Gonzalez (he/him)
Programming & Partnerships Director
Born in the Bronx, Omar is a first-generation Queer, Puerto Rican and Dominican, art enthusiast. From a young age, he always enjoyed various artistic disciplines, ranging from theater and music to composition. With a professional background in hospitality, specializing in Marketing, Brand Development, and Community Building, Omar brings his expertise to our team. He aims to expand our community, orchestrate diverse events throughout the year, and develop programs that achieve our annual fundraising objectives.
Edward F. Canfield (he/him)
Technical Director
Edward is a Brooklyn-born producer, general contractor, and Technical Director at Blended City. With over 15 years of experience in construction and creative production, he blends hands-on expertise with a passion for storytelling and innovation. Edward is the founder of Innovators Service Company, a design-build firm specializing in high-end renovations across NYC, and executive producer of the short films Papi and Closure. A trusted collaborator and problem solver, he brings craftsmanship, clarity, and a community-centered approach to every project.
John Anthony Torres (he/him)
Creative Development Manager
John Anthony Torres is an award-winning actor, writer, and producer working across film, television, and theatre. He stars as Aiden in Marvel’s Ironheart (Disney+) and has appeared in The Perfect Murder (ID Network), Moments of Youth (with Cheri Oteri), and a national Amazon holiday commercial. On stage, he made his Off-Broadway debut in I Carry Your Heart at 59E59 and earned a BroadwayWorld nomination for SCAB. He recently starred in the award-winning short films Papi and Closure, both co-produced with Blended City. A Juilliard MAP and Rudolf Steiner School alum, John brings depth, discipline, and heart to every project.
Daydrian Love Soto-Rivas (he/him)
Community Engagement Manager
Hailing from from Manhattan's Lower East Side, Daydrian Love Soto-Rivas, known as DAYLUV, balances a career at Amazon with a passion for music. As an Associate Partner in PXT Human Resources at Amazon, he drives HR strategies, collaborates with various teams, and leads employee engagement initiatives.
Outside of Amazon, Daydrian is a singer-songwriter, lyricist, audio engineer, and entrepreneur. He holds a Bachelor’s in Recording Arts (2011) and a Master’s in Entertainment Business (2017) from Full Sail University.
Olivia Lewis (she/her)
Executive Assistant
Olivia Lewis graduated in Spring 2025 from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, TX, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music with minors in English and Writing. She currently serves as the Executive Assistant at Blended City and aspires to build a career in grant writing. A passionate musician, Olivia sings soprano and plays the viola, bringing creativity, precision, and a strong sense of communication to everything she does.
OUR VISION
Bridging the cultural gaps of the world through representation in art.
Jevon Foster (he/him)
Board Chair
Jevon Foster (aka Baghdad BrooK) is a multi-disciplined creative with over a decade of experience as a community builder and event producer. A proud father of two, he credits his growth to the invaluable lessons of patience, problem-solving, and multitasking that parenthood has gifted him. His deep passion for the arts drives his commitment to fostering inclusive and dynamic creative spaces. As a dedicated advocate for artistic expression, Jevon has found the perfect synergy in his work with Blended City, where his vision and expertise continue to shape vibrant, community-driven experiences.
Rodelsi B. Acevedo (she/her)
Board Member
Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Rodelsi has always been passionate about music and dance. With a degree in Business Management, she currently works as a financial specialist for high-profile actors, writers, and producers. Rodelsi is dedicated to supporting the arts and fostering creativity, bringing a unique perspective, where she aims to bridge the gap between business and artistry.
Michael Bennett (he/him)
Board Member
Michael Bennet is a comedy writer based in Brooklyn, passionate about film and television. His goal is to create stories that make people laugh, and reflect everyday life through a comedic lens with characters that audiences genuinely care about. He is an experienced Brand Manager with a strong background in marketing and advertising. He has worked on social strategies for several critically acclaimed and award-winning television shows, as well as a diverse array of multimedia companies. Michael holds a Bachelor's Degree in Film/Video and Photographic Arts from the School of Visual Arts. Currently, he serves as the Social Media Manager for the award-winning digital media platform Her Agenda.