ABOUT DAN

What a story is “about” is to be found in the curiosity it creates in us, which is a form of caring.” - George Saunders

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. 

He 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 between collaborators. In addition he has also 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.

In addition to being a well traveled improviser he has been a successful actor and director in Hollywood. He has been lucky 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 about using improvisation to lead a more happy and engaged life.

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

Dan lives in Los Angeles with his wife Edi Patterson and their cat Veruca.