Matthew Elliott

Matthew Elliott is a Lecturer in Applied Performance and Global Challenges at the School of Performance and Cultural Industries, University of Leeds. His work bridges applied theatre practice with interdisciplinary research in global health, mental health, and social change.

• Key affiliations: Mental Health Research Network (University of Leeds), Centre for African Studies (University of Leeds), Participation Research Group, Pedagogic Research Group.

Research focuses on the political potential of applied theatre, particularly in health contexts in East Africa. Projects include collaborations with NGOs and theatre companies like Equator Ensemble, addressing mental health, masculinities, and reproductive health through arts-based interventions.

His work has received funding from the Wellcome Trust ISSF Fellowship, AHRC Follow on Fund, and ESRC Impact Acceleration awards.

• Honors/Awards: Wellcome Trust ISSF Fellowship.

Matthew leads the MA Applied Theatre and Intervention programme and teaches modules on theatre history, research methods, and collaborative practices. He holds a Practice-Based PhD, MA, and BA in theatre disciplines, alongside a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching in Higher Education.