Where storytelling and art meet community

John A Johnson is a Poet/Playwright and native Washingtonian. He is the founder and creator of Verbal Gymnastics Theater Company. Mr. Johnson holds a B.A in Theater Arts from The University of the District of Columbia. He has worked as a drama therapist in partnership with the District's Youth Services Center.  Mr. Johnson is a published author, who  has written and produced six plays that reflect and celebrate the culture of his native city Washington DC. He is a three-time Artist Fellow of the DC Arts Commission.  His most recent contribution is to a radio project at American University WAMU 88.5 in conjunction with the Association of Independent Radio call “Anacostia Unmapped”, which captures the narratives of local residents in rapidly changing communities “East of the River” in Washington D.C. Mr. Johnson uses innovative forms of theater/storytelling to foster meaningful discussions about race, cultural preservation,  and the effects of economic development in Washington, D.C.