John Olive, Acting Instructor

John grew up in Michigan and was introduced to theatre in High School. He immediately participated in his local community theatre and was inspired to learn all aspects of Theatrical Arts. After graduation from Western Michigan University he pursued a career in the performing arts. He has the opportunity to work at the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre, one of the largest Community Theatres in the country, as their Volunteer Coordinator/Educational Director.

In 1990 John was hired by the Lakewood Playhouse as their first Artistic Director where he produced over 3- productions in a five year period. He designed all but two shows, directed a lion's share of the productions and taught a s series of adult acting studios.

After leaving the Lakewood Playhouse John pursued professional opportunities working as an actor (both stage and commercial), director, and scenic designer. In 2010 John received an MFA from Minnesota State University, Mankato where he taught acting courses as part of his assistantship. He had the opportunities to teach at Southwestern Minnesota State University and Gustavus Adolphus College, both in Minnesota, while his talented wife Patricia was the Prop Master at the Guthrie Theatre.

John is very happy to be back in the Puget Sound are and excited to be back at the Lakewood Playhouse where he will be directing next season's opening production of Brighton Beach Memoirs.