Matt is no stranger to GCT. This is his second show with us after being in last spring’s production of Baby with the Bathwater.

Matt is delighted to be back performing with GCT.  His recent performances include John in Baby With The Bathwater (GCT) and Sean in Halfway There (RCCP).   He is humbled to work alongside so many talented artists and excited for you to see such a resonant and impactful story.  Matt extends his sincere thanks for your support of the Goochland arts scene, and hopes you enjoy the show!

What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?

The better question is “What isn’t?”. Achieving authenticity for so many different characters is probably at the top of my list. They each have their own unique and important story to tell, and telling each one well is my sacred duty as an actor.

Why did you want to be involved in this production?

So many reasons! 1. It is truly an honor to share Matthew’s story and enduring legacy with others. 2. I yearned to work alongside the amazing friends I met/made this time last year with GCT, as well as those I am so fortunate to meet and work with during this production. 3. This is the greatest challenge I have yet to undertake as an actor. Each year I try and find new ways to push myself past my comfort level to further my journey of self-discovery and improvement.

Who should not come see this show?

Children should not. Otherwise, everyone can benefit from seeing this show.

As you play many characters, can you tell us which one is most like you and which one is least like you?  And why?

I certainly hope I have the least in common with Murdock Cooper. I cannot imagine trying to justify murder, period, let alone his homophobic approach. Jon Peacock is probably the character I identify with the most. We both had the luxury of growing up neither constrained nor judged by society, religion, or law for our sexual preference. Through maturation, education, and vulnerability we were able to see more clearly the immense struggle others must endure to enjoy the same privileges in love and life.

If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?

Matt Galloway. I have always secretly admired the way bartenders, the truly talented ones, can so swiftly glide up and down the bar while seamlessly crafting & catering to all types of spirits they find throughout their shift. Galloway was very introspective on Matthew Shephard’s death, holding himself accountable for not doing more that night to realize the threat. Although Jamie knocks it out of the park with their portrayal of Matt.

What will the audience be thinking about in the car as they drive home after this show?

That we all deserve to love and be loved, without exception. We should all work harder to push hate and ignorance closer toward extinction.

How is this production bringing something, if anything, new to this story?

Every performance is unique, within every production, across every cast, crew, and audience member. New life is breathed into this story whenever such a collection of determined individuals share the same theatre.

Why should audiences be excited for this show? 

Goochland deserves a growing scene for the performing arts, and your presence can help make that happen!