For 25 years, Matthew Shaffer has been cultivating conversations and sharing stories across stage, film, and television as a performer, director, choreographer, and writer. His nonfiction books – So You Want To Be A Dancer And Dancing Out Of The Closet – extend that storytelling to the page, exploring identity, artistry, and the pursuit of connection. With an interdisciplinary MFA background, Shaffer believes that research and exploration thrive through collaboration, encouraging experiential learning to foster an environment that is curious and equitable for everyone involved. Credits include: Giordano Dance Chicago; The Radio City Spectacular NYC; Crazy Ex-Girlfriend; Broad City; and Wet Hot American Summer. Whether directing and choreographing large-scale productions like Matilda The Musical or working with emerging artists in community centers, theaters, and festivals, Matthew crafts creative spaces for stories rooted in the belief that emotion transcends gender, and that we all seek connection and validation. He is currently a teaching artist with Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Musical Theatre West, and on tour with Fluid Dance Convention. He is also the co-founder and Producing Artistic Director of The Collective Troupe in Los Angeles, CA. Follow his journey across social media platforms: @funnyshaffer.