Countertechnique, Modern, Improvisation

Omar Olivas was born and raised in Santa Ana, California, and has built a distinguished career as a performer, choreographer, and educator. He holds a Master’s degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Physiology) from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance from the University of California, Irvine. He is a full-time professor in the Theater and Dance Department at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a certified Countertechnique Teacher.

Omar’s career has taken him across North America, Europe, Mexico, Colombia, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Australia, where he has worked as a performer, choreographer, and educator. His choreographic works have been commissioned and produced by prestigious institutions, including Singapore’s Esplanade Da:ns Festival, Brigham Young University, Webster University, Salt Contemporary Dance, ATREK, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Utah Valley University, and Orange County High School of the Arts.

As a performer, Omar has had the privilege of working with renowned companies such as Diavolo Dance Theater, Backhausdance, LA Contemporary Dance Company, and Neglia Ballet. With a passion for movement, education, and artistic innovation, he continues to inspire the next generation of performers through his teaching, choreography, and research.