Joel Veenstra

Joel Veenstra is a Professor of Teaching and Chair of Stage Management at UC Irvine's Claire Trevor School of the Arts. He serves as Vice Chair of Production and Head of Stage Management, teaching applied improvisation and production courses. With an MFA in Drama from UCI and BA from Calvin College, Veenstra has stage managed for Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Pasadena Playhouse, and celebrity galas honoring figures like Tom Hanks and Rita Moreno.

His research explores improvisation applications in healthcare, business education, and intergenerational communication. He founded the Global Improvisation Initiative Symposium and Coup de Comedy Festival, and produced documentary shorts on improvisational theater.

Awards include the Chancellor's Award for Undergraduate Research mentoring and Kennedy Center theatre education honor. He practices Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and mindfulness techniques.