Matthew J. Wilks

Since his stage debut at the age of seven in the original musical Gods Pure Lamb, Matthew has been seen onstage in over 25 theatrical productions. Most recently he appeared in Weathervane Playhouse’s first annual play festival originating the role of Michael in the new play Bear-ly Legal: A Love Story. Other recent credits Postmortem and Gods Favorite for which he was awarded a “Merit in Acting” award from the Ohio Community Theatre Association (OCTA).

Matthew is a recent graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City where he studied film and theatre from October 2009 to May 2011

In 2004 Matthew made his diner theatre debut with the not-for-profit theatre group The Galaxy Players in their production of The Music Man. The proceeds from the show were donated to The Society of Handicapped Citizens Inc. and Lets Make a Difference, a program to build self esteem in children. The following year would see Matthew reuniting with the group in the show Red, Hot, and Cole a musical based on the life and songs of Cole Porter.

In early 2006 Matthew Took part in a reading of the original musical Warm Spanish Men by Milian France at Weathervane Playhouse in Akron. He was cast as a member of the ensemble as well as several character parts throughout the show.

After many years playing a slew of character parts Matthew made is lead role debut in the Medina County Show biz Production Over The River and Through The Woods. He played Nick Cristano to positive reviews. Several years later he re-teamed with Show Biz in their production of The Nerd playing the supporting role of Axel Hammond.

In 2008 Matthew was cast in North Canton Playhouse’s groundbreaking production of The Laramie Project. The show enjoyed an extended run with performance in Canton and Akron. The show played its final performance on the ten year anniversary of Matthew Shepard’s death. Following the performance a cast and audience talkback and a candlelight vigil was held to honor victims of hate crimes.

In 2002 Matthew made his television debut with That’s a Rap! An entertainment news and panel show where he served as creator, producer, and writer in addition to co-host. The show, which ran for two seasons on Wadsworth Community Television (WCTV), was nominated for a Clapper Award at the end of its second season.

In addition to his wok in theatre Matthew has also appeared in several films including Wallfower (short), and Putzel (independent feature). He most recently appeared in an industrial training video for Sterling Jewelers Inc.

In January of 2012 Matthew will made his touring debut in The Mirrorman playing the title role. The tour is set to open in January and run through June of the same year. The tour is organized by the Illusion Factory; an Akron based professional not-for-profit children’s theatre touring company.