Stealing the Show
Santa Fe University of Art and Design set the stage for Matthew D. Wiggin’s career in theatre.
By Christine Van Dusen
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| Alumnus Matthew D. Wiggin (’10) |
January 2012—Starting at age 5 when he went to the ballet, pointed at the stage, and said, “I want to do that,” Matthew D. Wiggin’s life had led up to one moment. It was a callback for one of the leads in the musical Chicago, staged at Santa Fe University of Art and Design.
As the only freshman in the room, he was understandably nervous. A few days later, he learned he was one of only three freshmen cast in the production. The director and choreographer, Campbell Martin, told Wiggin he had a promising future ahead of him. That encouragement marked the beginning of a long and fruitful mentorship.
Since his 2010 graduation with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre, Wiggin has launched a successful theatre career that has taken him from Santa Fe to Florida, Arizona, and New York City. He has played Richie Cunningham in a production of Happy Days, Larry in A Chorus Line, and Billy Crocker in Anything Goes. This fall, he toured with a production of Legally Blonde. In an interview, he shared what motivated him to enroll at Santa Fe University and pursue theatre.
What is it about theatre that appeals to you?
I love being on stage. I love transforming myself into someone else. There is nothing like knowing you’re changing people’s lives, making them smile, and giving them good entertainment. I also really enjoy traveling. It’s incredible to see other places, experience different cultures, and meet amazing, creative artists.
What was the moment that kick-started your career?
Attending New England Music Camp, a summer camp for musicians aged 11 to 18. It’s always been a very big part of my life. My great-grandfather started the camp in 1937, and the entire staff works to share their experiences and knowledge, including one-on-one attention.
I chose to attend Santa Fe for similar reasons. I needed to become more independent. Being so far away from home in a place that fosters the arts enabled me to do that. I also knew I would get personal attention from faculty members in the Performing Arts Department because the classes are so small. I developed the independence I needed to launch my career.
What challenges you to seek new opportunities?
It took me almost a year to book my first job, but things blossomed from there. It’s a constant struggle to travel and search for work, but I love it. In the summer of 2010, I debuted in the New York City production of Assassins. In that same year, I also took part in Collaborative Arts Project 21’s NYC Showcase and Practicum. After those experiences, my career took off.
What wisdom can you share with fellow alumni?
Be proactive and put yourself in the position to get work. Spend a lot of time researching theatres, submitting to them, and getting your name in their books. Half the shows I’ve booked I landed after sending in my headshot, résumé, and a video. Getting work in our business comes in three parts: talent, luck, and who you know. You have control over two, and need to make luck work in your favor. My education at Santa Fe University taught me to be independent and to stay focused on what I want. I learned I can do it.
