Olivia Candocia, MA
A playful and whimsical spirit.
Hi! I’m currently a drama therapist at a behavioral hospital and a counseling intern at Effective Artistry. Before that? So much soul-searching. After being inspired by the movie Patch Adams, I packed my bags and studied commedia dell’Arte and clowning at Accademia dell’Arte in Tuscany, Italy—dreaming of becoming some sort of clown doctor. I created my own projects centered on joy and human connection, taught early childhood education, and worked so many random gigs that I can’t even remember them all. Through it all, I was desperately searching for a place where I felt inspired and like I truly belonged.
Soul Searching Projects:
those are my purple nails in the first shot
CHICAGO PLAYBACK THEATRE COMPANY
Founding Member · Conductor · Performer
Chicago Playback Theatre Ensemble is an improvisational performance group that transforms real stories shared by audience members into dynamic onstage theatre using movement, music, and unscripted storytelling.
Whether profound or everyday, joyful or painful, every experience is honored and brought to life with empathy, creativity, and respect. CPTE creates a space where all voices are seen, heard, and valued.
THE 2020 CLEANSE
Created in collaboration with Sarah Ford
Born during a time of global uncertainty, The 2020 Cleanse offered a daily dose of care, connection, and intention throughout December 2020. Each day, participants received a self-care or pay-it-forward challenge designed to inspire reflection, generosity, and joy.
At the end of each week, those who completed every challenge were entered into a raffle for a chance to win a feel-good prize. More than just a month-long event, The 2020 Cleanse blossomed into a heartfelt community—one that honored vulnerability, celebrated small wins, and reminded us we weren’t alone
THE SEEDS WE PLANT
A multimedia journey into human connection.
The Seeds We Plant is a personal travel blog and multimedia project that captures the heart of what connects us all. As I journeyed across the wilderness states, I interviewed strangers about the metaphorical “seeds” planted in their lives—the experiences, people, or ideas that shaped them—and the legacies they hope to leave behind.
The project features a mix of written and filmed interviews, available on Instagram and YouTube.
THE KINDNESS CONFETTI PROJECT
Founded and Created from the Heart
The Kindness Confetti Project was born during my junior year of college with one simple mission: to spread joy and kindness in everyday moments.
Each Monday, I would set up a table with over 50 “uplifting items” (goodies) and a list of simple acts of kindness for anyone passing by. Students and community members of all ages joined in—blowing bubbles, snacking on chocolates, popping bubble wrap for stress relief, and hiding smiley stones around campus to brighten someone’s day.
Beyond the public fun, the project also included a more intimate, supportive circle—a private group of ten individuals seeking love and encouragement. Each member received occasional care packages and tailored kindness prompts based on a survey they filled out, making the experience deeply personal and meaningful.