Matt Hawkins

Matt Hawkins is an Associate Professor of Theatre at the University of Notre Dame’s Department of Film, Television, and Theatre within the College of Arts and Letters. He serves as Director of Musical Theatre and Creative Producer of the New Works Lab. His roles include fight choreographer, movement director, and director of theatre productions across Broadway, regional theatres, and educational institutions. Hawkins has collaborated with renowned organizations such as The House Theatre of Chicago, Steppenwolf, Goodman Theatre, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Education: B.F.A. in Acting from Southern Methodist University (recipient of Greer Garson Award, Bob Hope Scholarship) and M.F.A. in Directing from the University of Iowa (Iowa Arts Directing Fellow).

Research focuses on Musical Theatre History, Performance Techniques, and innovative production methods. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary storytelling, as seen in his acclaimed productions like Red Noses and MY HEART SAYS GO, which explore themes of family, identity, and perseverance. Hawkins’ projects often involve youth engagement, highlighted by his direction of the Chicago Public Schools’ production honored by Michelle Obama.

Notable accolades include 17 Jeff Award nominations (5 wins), recognition as one of Time Out Chicago’s ‘Top Five Prolific Artists of the Decade,’ and leadership in national theatre initiatives to foster new musical creation.

Advising & Grants: Spearheaded the Faculty Research Support Program-funded development of MY HEART SAYS GO with Jorge Rivera-Herrans. Collaborates across institutions to produce educational theatre, such as What The Constitution Means To Me tours in Indiana. Active in training emerging artists through workshops and labs.

Labs/Teams: Founder of Notre Dame’s New Works Lab; affiliated with Strawdog Theatre, 500 Clown, and The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.