Basic Information
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matt August |
| Education | B.F.A., University of Colorado; M.F.A., California Institute of the Arts |
| Specialties | New plays & musicals, Shakespeare, comedies, holiday classics |
| Professional Base | Los Angeles & New York City (Matt August) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @mattaugprods (3,200 followers) |
| Recent Premiere | Bob & Jean: A Love Story (Arizona Theatre Company, May 2025) |
Early Life and Educational Foundations
From his first college workshop to commanding regional stages, Matt August has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to theatrical excellence. He earned his B.F.A. in Theatre Arts at the University of Colorado, where he directed student productions ranging from modern comedies to Greek tragedies. Pursuing deeper mastery, he completed an M.F.A. in Directing at the California Institute of the Arts—an incubator for experimental performance techniques and collaborative creation. These formative experiences instilled in him both a respect for classical texts and a desire to champion new voices.
Career Highlights and Industry Recognition
By mid-career, Matt August had already made his mark with a string of acclaimed productions. In 2016 he was named a finalist for the prestigious TCG Alan Schneider Directing Award, recognizing his visionary approach to staging new works. His productions have garnered nominations and accolades from:
| Award | Year | Production |
|---|---|---|
| TCG Alan Schneider Directing Award (Finalist) | 2016 | Multiple New Play Productions |
| Ovation Awards (Nominee) | 2018 | Holiday Classics Reimagined |
| Helen Hayes Awards (Nominee) | 2019 | Shakespeare in the Park |
| Helpmann Awards (Australia, Nominee) | 2020 | Contemporary Musical Premiere |
These honors reflect August’s versatility—equally adept at breathing new life into Shakespeare’s language and guiding world-premiere musicals from page to stage.
Notable Productions and Media Features
August’s work transcends the proscenium arch. His holiday spectaculars have appeared in The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and have been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The Wendy Williams Show. In a landmark event, he directed a special staged reading at the White House, showcasing his ability to blend entertainment with cultural significance. Major publications such as the Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and NPR’s KQED have repeatedly included his shows on their year-end Top Ten lists, affirming his status as a national theatrical influencer.
Recent Work: Bob & Jean: A Love Story
In May 2025, the Arizona Theatre Company unveiled its new world-premiere musical, Bob & Jean: A Love Story, under August’s direction. Previews began May 27th, with the official opening on May 31st, drawing sold-out audiences for its inventive staging and heartfelt narrative. BroadwayWorld praised his deft pacing and emotional clarity, noting that August “weaves nostalgia and innovation into a seamless theatrical tapestry” (BroadwayWorld).
Directorial Style and Creative Philosophy
At the core of August’s approach is collaboration. He partners closely with playwrights, designers, and composers to cultivate a shared artistic vision. His rehearsal rooms are known for open dialogue, rigorous text analysis, and playful experimentation. Whether crafting the comedic timing of a farce or the emotional arcs of a new drama, he tailors his methods to serve the story and the ensemble. His hallmark is an “actor-centric” process: he prioritizes character development and authenticity, ensuring that each performance resonates with contemporary audiences.
Public Image and Social Media Engagement
Matt August maintains a robust but focused social-media presence. On Instagram (@mattaugprods), he shares behind-the-scenes photos, rehearsal videos, and director’s notes, cultivating a following of 3,200 theatre professionals and enthusiasts. His posts offer rare insight into the directorial process—storyboarding staging concepts, discussing scenic design collaborations, and highlighting cast chemistry. By balancing professional insight with personal reflection, he fosters a community of emerging artists and informed patrons.
Comparative Perspectives in Theatre and Film
While August focuses on live performance, his peers in adjacent fields offer complementary viewpoints. For instance, film director and producer Amy Hart Redford directs narrative storytelling on screen, illustrating how directorial craft adapts across mediums. Together, their careers underscore the expansive potential of narrative arts, whether on stage or camera.
Legacy and Future Directions
With over two decades of artistic leadership, Matt August continues to redefine contemporary theatre. Upcoming projects include a reimagined Shakespeare cycle at a major regional festival and the development of an original musical slated for New York City in 2026. His ongoing commitment to nurturing new playwrights and composers ensures a dynamic pipeline of fresh theatrical works. As audiences seek both innovative narratives and timeless classics, August’s bold direction and collaborative ethos position him at the forefront of America’s theatre renaissance.
FAQ
What training does Matt August have?
He holds a B.F.A. from the University of Colorado and an M.F.A. in Directing from the California Institute of the Arts.
Which major awards has he been nominated for?
He was a 2016 finalist for the TCG Alan Schneider Directing Award and has received Ovation, Helen Hayes, and Helpmann Award nominations.
Where can I see his recent production?
His world-premiere musical Bob & Jean: A Love Story ran at Arizona Theatre Company in May 2025; details are on BroadwayWorld’s site.
How does he engage with his audience online?
On Instagram (@mattaugprods), he posts rehearsal insights, production stills, and director’s commentary to foster an engaged theatre community.
Who is Amy Hart Redford?
Amy Hart Redford is an American film director and producer known for her narrative and documentary work, exemplifying the breadth of directorial craft.
