Jim Poulos

Class of 1990

Concert Choir • Jazz Choir • Show Choir • Drama • Musical Theater

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For Jim Poulos, San Marin Performing Arts was where talent, opportunity, and preparation came together to launch a lifelong career. From the stages of San Marin to Broadway, national tours, and acclaimed regional theaters, his journey is a reminder that big dreams often begin with a single opportunity—and the willingness to keep showing up prepared.

After graduating from San Marin High School in 1990, Jim continued his theatrical training at the Pacific Conservatory for the Performing Arts before launching a professional acting career. More than three decades later, he continues to work as both an actor and web developer while collaborating with his wife, acclaimed director Melissa Rain Anderson, on productions that reflect their shared passion for theater and storytelling.

Photo Credit © Peter Wochniak

Career Highlights

Jim's work has taken him to stages across the country, performing everything from contemporary musicals to Shakespeare. After an open audition for RENT, years of dedication paid off when he was cast in the Broadway company. He would go on to perform the role of Mark Cohen for more than two years before continuing a career that has included national tours, Shakespeare festivals, and acclaimed regional theaters across the country.

His credits include the national tour of Little Shop of Horrors and acclaimed productions of Hamlet and Amadeus at The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, the Henry VI trilogy at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, and Company at Geva Theatre Center. Along the way, the performing arts also introduced Jim to his wife, director Melissa Rain Anderson. Together, they've built a lifelong creative partnership, continuing to collaborate on productions while sharing a passion for bringing stories to life.

To explore more of Jim's work and career, visit jimpoulos.com

Jim with Emily Gates in front of the Emily Gates Performing Arts Center

REFLECTIONS & ADVICE

When asked what has stayed with him since his time at San Marin Performing Arts, Jim didn't mention a favorite role or standing ovation. Instead, he reflected on the lessons that shaped him:

Ensemble. Discipline. Creative freedom. Friendship. Fun.

Those values became the foundation for a life devoted to the performing arts and continue to guide him today. One of Jim's favorite memories is of longtime choir director Emily Gates.

"Emily Gates. The only person I'd get up at 7:00 a.m. to sight-sing Bach chorales for."

He also treasures returning to San Marin to join fellow alumni in singing "The Lord Bless You and Keep You"—a tradition that continues to connect generations of performers.

"The tradition of singing The Lord Bless You and Keep You with the alumni is a holy experience."

For students dreaming about a future in the arts, Jim's advice is both simple and enduring:

"Be willing, prepared and kind. It's a marathon, not a sprint. Find the people you enjoy making things with."

Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang.