Suggestions
Matthew Poulson
Specialty Toy Retailer
Professional Background
Matthew Poulson is a highly experienced professional with a decade of robust engagement in Arts Administration, showcasing a versatile career across various positions, including Marketing, Operations, Audience Services, Development, Facility Management, and Public Relations. His diverse background spans a wide spectrum of theatrical environments, allowing him to hone his skill set and adapt to the dynamic nature of the arts sector.
Over the years, Matthew has thrived in multiple prestigious organizations, ranging from small fringe theaters to full-fledged Off-Broadway professional theaters and esteemed regional Lort theatres. His rich experiences include impactful tenures in Seattle at well-respected institutions such as Theater Schmeater, Seattle Children's Theatre, and Intiman Theatre. His journey has also taken him to Madison, Wisconsin, where he made significant contributions to organizations including The Bartell Theatre and the Madison Repertory Theatre. Furthermore, Matthew enriched the cultural landscape of New York while working with the Signature Theatre Company, further emphasizing his extensive reach within the arts community.
Education and Achievements
Matthew Poulson pursued his higher education at the University of Wisconsin, where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree and a Master's degree (M.A.). This academic foundation equipped him with valuable knowledge and insight into the arts, which he has successfully translated into his professional endeavors.
In addition to his hands-on experience, Matthew has also participated in various roles that showcase his adeptness in development and operational management. For instance, he has held the position of Development Assistant at The Ronald McDonald House of Southeastern Wisconsin and worked as a Grants Manager at Skylight Music Theatre, where he effectively managed funding proposals and facilitated artistic projects. His role as the Percent for Arts Coordinator at the Wisconsin Arts Board highlights his commitment to fostering arts and culture within communities.
Achievements
One of Matthew's notable achievements is his role in enhancing audience engagement and operational efficiencies in the organizations he served. His strategic approach to operations and marketing led to elevated audience services, ensuring that patrons had enriching experiences at the theatres. As the Operations Manager at Signature Theatre Company and Manager of the Jose Quintero Theatre, he played a crucial role in overseeing the seamless execution of performances, thereby contributing to the theaters' overall success and reputation.
Moreover, as a business owner and co-creator at Ruckus & Glee LLC, Matthew continues to employ his vast experience in managing creative projects while strengthening his entrepreneurial skills. His commitment to the arts is matched by his adaptability, having previously assumed the essential role of a Stay at Home Dad, which speaks to his versatility and dedication to family values alongside professional commitments.
Matthew's career reflects a passion for the arts complemented with strong operational and management capabilities. His impressive portfolio reveals a deep understanding of the various facets of the arts sector, making him a sought-after expert in Arts Administration. He continues to inspire and contribute to the arts community, leveraging his extensive background to empower the next generation of creative professionals and facilitate meaningful public engagement with the arts.
