John Johnson is a native Washingtonian and is the founder of Verbal Gymnastics Theater Company. He uses an innovative approach to storytelling that gives voice to community through Playback Theatre.

Mr. Johnson is a director, actor, public radio contributor, arts educator, and father of two. He holds a B.A. in theater form the University of the District of Columbia and uses his background in theater to create unique, interactive experiences when writing and performing. Mr. Johnson has worked as a drama therapist with a partnership with the District’s Youth Services Center. Some of Mr. Johnson's early career accolades include being a published author of a book of poetry called “Love for Her. He has written and produced six plays that reflect and celebrate the culture of his native city, Washington DC. He has also been a three-time Artist Fellow of the DC Arts Commission. Other honors include participation in Sounds of the Underground, DC HIP HOP Theatre Festival one-act plays. One of his most recent contributions is to a radio project at American University WAMU 88.5 in conjunction with the Association of Independent Radio called “Anacostia Unmapped,” which captures the narratives of local residents in rapidly-changing communities “East of the River” in Washington D.C.