Like many theatre freelancers I wear a number of different hats throughout my working life and have a wide range of skills that make me suited for a number of roles. I’m always interested in meeting new collaborators, I have the knowledge and skills to support and develop your project and help to make it a reality. I am particularly passionate about new writing, community theatre and theatre made by and for neurodivergent people. My fees are based on industry standards and are fair given me experience and knowledge, I am happy to negotiate fees based on the scale and budget of your project.
Teaching & Workshop Facilitator
I have ran creative writing and drama workshop with young people for the National Trust, University of Birmingham Classic Outreach, Wolverhampton Grand Arena Youth Theatre, Women & Theatre, Ricnic, ALRA Drama School and a facilitator for Writing West Midlands’ Sparks’ Young Writers.
I am experienced in making co-created work. Including Murder on the Dancefloor for Wolverhampton Grand Arena, Pandora Unleashed part of the Myth Today Project and Puss in Boots a co-created pantomime made with older adults and carers at risk of social isolation as part of Women & Theatre’s Community Performance Club.
“Workshops were fantastic and the students really enjoyed themselves, as did I! I hadn’t expected them to enjoy it quite so much, so thank you for a very enjoyable and useful day.“
Memoona Akhtar, Head of English, Rochdale Girls’ School
Dramaturgy
I also support other writers as a dramaturg, supporting writers in the early development of their scripts through to rehearsed readings and full productions. My approach is based on placing the script at the centre of the creative process and supporting the writer develop the play into what they envision for it. Whether you want a one of script report or something more long term, I’m always happy to talk to writers. I have an MRes in playwriting studies and have strong knowledge of dramatic practice and theory.
“Matt was the perfect fit for our project. Not only did he come to our sessions extremely well prepared, but was able to adapt to our individual pace and needs. He brought to the table prompts for fresh ideas and specific technical playwrighting knowledge to help re-structure the play. Matt was extremely flexible with his schedule to fit our project timeline and has a great sense of humour.”
Ruth Mestel co-writer of Eco-Ball
Marketing, Fundraising & Project Management
As well as my creative practice I also work within the industry helping to facilitate art and cultural projects. I have ran several successful marketing campaigns for theatre shows working for venues, festivals and small arts organisations which have resulted in the sell out runs. Since 2018 I have been working at Birmingham based theatre company Women & Theatre, my current role is Projects Manager and I work on a range of community led projects across the city and wider region.
As a fundraiser I have strong track record of applying for Arts Council England both for my own work and others, as well as several charitable trusts, foundations, sponsorship, individual giving and crowdfunding campaigns.
Matthew Gabrielli 