J O H N R E A D

dancer | singer | actor

Backyard Broadway...

Originally from Skaneateles, NY, John's passion for music, love of learning, and extreme shyness somehow led him to pursue musical theater against all odds. His foray into performance began at the age of five when he played Glinda, using his backyard swing set as the bubble, and Scar, using his parents tall bed as the canyon (which led to an ER visit when his sister (Mufasa) pushed him off-true story).

John is excited to be graduating this spring with a BFA in Musical Theatre from SUNY Fredonia. Some of his favorite credits include Goran (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), Andrey/clarinet (Great Comet of 1812), Wolf (Into the Woods), Baritone Sailor (Anything Goes) and Dance Captain (Legally Blonde). He has also performed as a parade dancer at Valleyfair Amusement Park in Minnesota.

Outside of theater, John's interests are varied and kind of strange. Growing up without cable TV/internet turned him into an avid board game player (Wingspan #1 fan) and nature enthusiast. He loves learning about and studying practically anything (whether its theme park history, public policy, or vocal pedagogy). Don't worry, he also likes to have fun, and does so with a great sense of humor, a passion for dinner parties, and the ability to nap anywhere at any time.

What's New!

Upcoming: College Graduation!

In May, 2025 I will be graduating from SUNY Fredonia with a BFA in Musical Theatre.

I'm super excited for this next step in my journey and all the opportunities that my future holds!

Upcoming: The Sound of Music

In May, I will be playing the role of Max in The Sound of Music for the SUNY Fredonia Commencement Eve Concert. The entire length script and score will be performed alongside the Western New York Chamber Orchestra in a concert style staging.

I'm ecstatic to be able to perform one of my favorite musicals that I've loved since I was a kid, and I can't wait to hear this gorgeous music with a full live orchestra right behind us onstage!

Fall 2024-Legally Blonde at SUNY Fredonia

As the perfect end to my college theatre experience, I was able to perform in Legally Blonde as ensemble/dance captain.

Super meta to perform a show about graduating college while graduating college! I had an absolute blast living out my cheerleader fantasy every night.

Summer 2024 at Woodstock Playhouse

The summer before my senior year I performed in the entire season at Woodstock Playhouse, doing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Goran), Anything Goes (Baritone Sailor), and Escape to Margaritaville (featured dancer).

Despite the fast paced rehearsal process, I found moments to enjoy the beautiful nature in the Catskills and it was gorgeous! Super grateful for the team, cast, and crews who helped make this summer a success.

Fall 2023-Great Comet at SUNY Fredonia

When I first saw this show on Broadway, it quickly became an obsession and never in a million years did I expect to get to be in it at college. I was Andrey and played the clarinet in my ensemble track.

Getting to play an instrument during a musical was a first for me! I learned so much from performing this show in an immersive way (like how to run up the whole aisle in 5 seconds) and so enjoyed the experience!

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