Oliver was born just outside of Grand Rapids, MI, and he grew up in a dance studio where he fell in love with storytelling through movement. He has loved dance since he was three years old, and his passion for learning and being part of a dance community was nourished through the wonderful privilege of travelling to dance conventions for all of his teenage years. In high school, he also discovered a love for theater, so he moved to Chicago after graduating to study musical theater performance and dance. He graduated with his BFA in 2022, and since then, he has continued performing and training in New York City. As an openly trans artist, he hopes to propel the performance community toward a place of innovation, compassion, and togetherness.
Photo by James Jin.
Photo by Chollette.
Oliver believes that the way the human body can move is nothing short of miraculous; as a dancer and athlete, nothing he does should really be anatomically possible, and yet he gets to express love through movement each day. In addition to performing, Oliver has a NASM-CPT certification, and works with a mindful, compassionate approach to help his clients find ways that they enjoy movement, too. He is endlessly grateful for the gifts of having a body that is so attuned to expression, agility, and athleticism.
Overall, though, when it comes down to performing, he believes in making powerful and honest art, in celebrating all parts of the creative process, in being the one to say a friendly hello to the person standing by themselves in the classroom, and in prioritizing kindness above all else.