Dan O’Connor

Actor

Writer

Director

Teacher

Improviser

Improvisation is being present for each other and the task at hand. When we take care of each other and focus on listening and helping the other person we help to remove ego and self-doubt. What’s more is that our partners feel seen and heard. That is collaboration.

“Make your partner look good.” Keith Johnstone

Dan O’Connor is a multi-faceted actor, improviser, writer, director, and teacher.  He is the founder and former producing artistic director of the critically acclaimed Impro Theatre in Los Angeles. 

He is a co-founder of BATS Improv in San Francisco and LA Theatresports. Dan has been professionally performing and teaching improvisation all over the world since 1986. He has developed engaging methods of narrative improvisation to create visceral unscripted theatre and applied improvisation techniques to create more understanding and communication among collaborators.

He has been fortunate enough to train and work with some amazing teachers and talent including Keith Johnstone, Phelim McDermott, Lee Simpson, and Wayne Brady. He has performed with The Groundlings, The Second City, and theatre companies from Auckland to Oslo and almost everywhere in between.

Dan has co-authored two books with Dr. Jeff Katzman on improvisation for leading a happier and more connected life. He has taught these skills to everyone from novice acting students to NBA players and CEOs.

Life UnScripted -Using Improv Principles to Get Unstuck, Boost Confidence, and Transform Your Life

and

Ensemble! Using the Power of Improv To Forge Connections in a Lonely World

Published by North Atlantic Books and available through Penguin Random House

Graduate of the Teacher Development Program of National Alliance of Acting Teachers

Webby Award winner for Creative Direction

Dan lives in Los Angeles with his wife Edi Patterson.

REP

Theatrical:

O’Neill Talent 818.566.7717

Commercial:

AKA 323.965.5600

Voice Over:

RSA Vanessa@rsatalent.net