“All the explanation you need to know is in her face and body language.” FILM THREAT

“Affirming and harrowing at the same time…Oliva’s incredibly affecting performance, a rich, intense and moving short film which is impossible to tear your eyes away from… well-crafted gem…ferocity and nurturing tenderness shines through every frame.” UK FILM REVIEW

“Oliva beautifully portrays the hunted wariness and demeanor of a woman grappling with abuse, but she also has the resolute determination and fierce love of a parent doing everything in her power to safeguard her child's safety and innocence.” OMELETO

Provocative straight shooter holding it together with scotch tape

Award winning bilingual, first-generation actress born in Milwaukee.

My favorite roles have been those with edge, daring and boldness. I love creating works that are pure unbridled guts, vitality and courage. I’m all about getting gritty and messy while embracing vulnerability and awkwardness; all with heart and (sometimes vulgar) wit. In short - tender and ruthless.

I recently received critical acclaim for the short film “Lioness”, which I wrote, produced and acted in. I was awarded “Best Actress” at the Georgia Shorts Film Festival, and nominated for Best Performance by the SOHO International Film Festival and First Glance Philadelphia Film Festival.

“Lioness” has been an Official Selection and screened at over 60 festivals, including Academy Award®, BAFTA, BIFA and Canadian Screen Qualifying.

Onstage, I garnered critical acclaim for my performance in the World Premiere of The People Downstairs at American Stage. My performances in both A View From The Bridge and Top Girls were named “Best of the Year - Critics’ Pick” by The Orlando Sentinel.

My Chicago credits include Northlight Theater, Mary-Arrchie Theater, Lifeline Theater, The Artistic Home, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and many others. In New York I performed the role of Sicinius in Shakespeare in the Parking Lot's Coriolanus ( NY Times Critics Pick. ) Regionally, I have performed at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, GableStage, American Stage, The Berkshire Theater Group, Orlando Shakespeare Theater (Playfest), Orlando International Fringe Festival, and many others

I received my MFA in Acting from Brandeis University, where the focus was in the Suzuki Martial-Arts Actor Training. A avid traveler and unapologetic Leo, my biggest pride is being a mama to a lion-hearted, ass kicking daughter. (Literally. She’s a black belt)