HarmonyWaves, a local non-profit 501c(3) organization, in partnership with Wilton Manors Business Association (WMBA) is proud to present the Annual Wilton Manors Holiday Spectacular, featuring Tony Award Winner Matt Doyle, on Monday, December 11, at 7pm at Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve located at 1937 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors.
Matt Doyle is an American actor and singer best known for his work on Broadway stages. He won a 2022 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, for his work in the acclaimed revival of Company on Broadway. Doyle made his Broadway debut at the age of 19 in Spring Awakening and appeared in several hits including War Horse and The Book of Mormon.
The Annual Wilton Manors Holiday Spectacular is an outdoor evening concert in the park. The event will be hosted by television and radio personality FayWhat?!, and Stoli USA National LGBTQ+ Ambassador Patrik Gallineaux. Additional entertainers include Christopher Hamblin, Delta Miles, Eytan Deray, Jennifer McClain, João Santos, Jonathan Hawkins, Julia Lemigova, LeNora Jaye, Matthew Darren, Miss Bouveé, Qya Cristál, Roxy Pops, Synergy Twins, Tina Burner, and Yoli Mayors.
At what age did you begin performing?
I started performing when I was 12 years old, as my family moved out to California. I was dealing with a lot of bullying at school and a lovely woman, Marilyn Izdebski, pulled me out of my class and found community theater for me. She really saved my life in a lot of ways.
What was your first paid gig and how much did you get paid?
My first paid gig was with a small semiprofessional company in the show “Into The Woods” in Marin county. I played Jack and got to sing one of my favorite songs in musical theater…Giants In The Sky.” I was paid $50 bucks a week.
When did you know performing would be your career?
I think I knew I wanted to pursue it when I was a sophomore at Redwood high school in California. They provided a safe space to teach kids about the performing arts and I realized I had a deep passion for it.
In 2022 you won the Tony Award. Can you tell me what it was like when you heard your name being called?
It was the most utterly surreal experience in my life. If you could bottle that feeling, people would be absolutely rich. It was the most blissful payoff I will probably ever experience in my life. I didn’t know if we would come back after the Covid shut down so to see it pay off that way was absolutely miraculous.
How was it to work with the icon, Patty Lupone?
I admire her so much because she says whatever is on her mind. There are a lot of difficult men that get away with that behavior, but a woman is called a diva when she does that. I love and respect her so much and she was so good to me. She is also the biggest ensemble member I have ever met in my life; she is a team player! I was floored by her collaboration and support.
What has been your favorite role so far?
Oh gosh, I guess it would have to be what I am playing now, Frank Sinatra in Frank Sinatra the musical. I am playing someone a bit more out of my comfort zone, so to emulate him and that time has been thrilling.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but want to)?
I think my fantasy is to create something completely original. That would be a dream come true.
After dating for 8 years, you got engaged to Max Clayton in April. What makes Max the perfect guy for you?
Max and I balance each other perfectly, we really are polar opposites. I calm him down and ground him and he brings me out of my shell and makes me more social. He is the most supportive guy, and I am the same for him. He always tries to lift me up and never tries to bring me down.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Tenacious, anxious, and passionate.
What do you do for fun?
Nothing makes me happier than being at home with my dogs. I am also a really big gamer and I have a big community online to play with. I also build PC’s/computers. I am the biggest nerd tech in the world.
What should our readers expect from your performance at the Holiday Spectacular this Monday, December 11?
They should expect a mix of Broadway and holiday songs and they also get to see a preview of my Frank Sinatra. In addition, I always bring personal stories to my shows as I feel that’s a way for my audiences to get to know me beyond the stage and the roles I have played.
Is there anything I didn’t ask you that you want to talk about?
I am just so thrilled to be back in South Florida, as it’s so absolutely beautiful.
General admission tickets to Holiday Spectacular are $39; VIP tickets are available for $99, which includes complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are now on sale at HarmonyWaves.org.
