ǿմý

Matthew Andersen '27

Matthew Andresen

Class Year

’27

Hometown

Greenfield, Wisconsin

Major(s)

Musical Theatre

Minor(s)

Public Relations

Matthew Andresen ’27 has enjoyed performing since a young age and gained early experience as a performer at Six Flags Great America before enrolling in college. As a musical theatre major at Carthage, Matthew has appeared in the College’s productions of “On the Verge,” “To the Growth Edge,” “Head Over Heels,” and “Bright Star.” He has also participated in several off-campus productions, including “Love at First Fright,” “ADRENAL!NE,” “KINETIC,” and “The Holidays Bake Me Crazy.” More recently, he performed with BrightSide Theatre in Naperville, Illinois, appearing in the ensemble for “Pippin” and “Phantom in Concert.” For Matthew, musical theatre is both a discipline and a form of expression: “Musical theatre challenges me to be disciplined and collaborative, and it is constantly evolving. It gives me the opportunity to express myself in powerful and meaningful ways.” 

Matthew not only enjoys performing on stage but also takes pride in the behind-the-scenes work that goes into developing and promoting musicals. Utilizing his skills from his public relations minor, he currently works as a social media manager for the Office of Visual and Performing Arts, where he promotes events to drive ticket sales and attract prospective students. Additionally, he is involved with the theatre fraternity , through which he has choreographed two 24-Hour Musicals. Matthew sees his time at Carthage as an opportunity to expand his skills and develop new strengths thanks to the College’s many opportunities. “These experiences pushed me as both an artist and choreographer, challenging me to think quickly, communicate clearly, and create strong work under pressure,” he says.

Learn more about Musical Theatre at Carthage

Apply Now

“From the start, I could see how Carthage could support my growth and help me move confidently toward my goals.”

Matthew Andresen, ’27

Why Carthage?

“I chose Carthage for its welcoming faculty, the strength of its training, and the clear sense that I belonged here. From the start, I could see how the musical theatre program would support my growth and help me move confidently toward my goals.”

Faculty mentors

“The Carthage faculty have played a huge role in my journey. My relationships with professors go far beyond the classroom — they offer industry connections, support on the tough days, and even advice on crafting the perfect 32-bar cut for auditions.”

Favorite class

“My favorite class at Carthage has been Musical Theatre Techniques IV: Duets and Trios, taught by Professor Molly Fuller. It brought together everything I’ve learned in voice, acting, and dance into one collaborative space. Getting to build fully realized scenes with partners, complete with blocking and choreography, pushed me to think and perform at a higher level. Prof. Fuller is an active professional in the industry, and her mentorship challenged me to step outside my comfort zone with roles I never would have considered. She also pushed me vocally, elevating my technique and confidence. It was a demanding class, but thanks to her guidance and support, it became one of the most impactful experiences of my time here.”

Campus involvement

“I am involved in our theatre fraternity, (APO). I love connecting with like-minded, theatre-driven people who share the same passion and energy for this work. Through APO, I’ve had the opportunity to choreograph two of their 24-hour musicals, “Footloose” in 2025 and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in 2026. These experiences pushed me as both an artist and choreographer, challenging me to think quickly, communicate clearly, and create strong works under pressure.”

Internships or campus employment

“I am currently a social media manager for the Carthage Office Visual and Performing Arts (VPA). I oversee the promotion of all events, including musical ensembles, theatrical productions, and the Performing Arts Series. I plan, create, and schedule strategic content to drive ticket sales, increase audience engagement, and attract prospective students. This is a great way to connect my love of the arts with my public relations skills. Additionally, I am the student recital coordinator. I manage all Carthage Music Department student recitals, coordinating logistics such as programs, publicity, and event support to ensure each recital runs smoothly.”

Career goal

“I’m hoping to pursue a range of opportunities, including performing on national tours and cruise ships, and directing and choreographing for high school programs and show choirs. Of course, making it to Broadway would be a dream. Ultimately, my goal is to share my love of performing with others and inspire the next generation of artists.”

Advice for other students in your major?

“My biggest advice is to stay hungry for opportunity, say yes to projects, take risks, and put yourself out there even when it feels uncomfortable. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Build strong relationships with your peers and faculty, stay open to feedback, and trust the process. The more you invest in your training, the more you’ll get out of it.”

What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?

“My 8-year-old self would be completely over the moon and not surprised. I already loved performing, putting on little shows, and dreaming big as a kid, so getting to study and pursue musical theatre would feel like a dream come true. I think he’d be excited to see that I never let go of that passion and that I’m still chasing it, just on a bigger stage.”