Ola B. Johannessen is a Norwegian actor, director, and theater manager, educated at Statens Teaterskole (the National Academy of Theatre) and under Polish director Henryk Tomaszewski. Johannessen made his stage debut in 1961 in "Historia om Vasco" at Det norske teatret (The Norwegian Theatre), and has served as artistic director at Trøndelag Teater, Den Nationale Scene, Fjernsynsteatret (Television Theatre), and at Nathionaltheatret. He has also been the leader of Det norske Shakespearselskap (the Norwegian Shakespeare Company). In 2012, he was appointed Knight 1st Class of the Order of St. Olav for his contribution to Norwegian theater and performing arts.
In 2024, Ola celebrates his 85th birthday with several touring productions dedicated to the literary heritage of Ibsen and Garborg, featuring works such as "Terje Vigen" and "Haugtussa" on the program.