Meet the New Sierra Madre Playhouse Artistic and Executive Director

Matt Cook (Photo courtesy of Matt Cook)

Matt Cook, a Grammy Award-Winning Percussionist, has been named Artistic and Executive director of the award-winning Sierra Madre Playhouse.

By News Desk

Matt Cook, who has extensive experience as both an innovative arts leader and Grammy Award-winning performer, began his tenure on September 1, 2023. His appointment was announced by Board President David Gordon. The Playhouse next year celebrates its 100th anniversary since opening as a movie theater in 1924.

Cook, most recently served as executive director of the Los Angeles-based Blue 13 Dance Company. Previously, he was executive director of the noted Pacific Opera Project and held development and production positions with the critically acclaimed Wild Up new music ensemble. In the dance field as a producer and artist, he has collaborated with Martha Graham Dance Company, Akram Khan Company, Heidi Duckler Dance, among others.

“Matt Cook has the talent, knowledge, and experience to succeed brilliantly in the dual role of artistic and executive director of the Playhouse as he leads our transition into becoming the leading small space performing arts and cultural center in the region,” says Gordon. “The board looks forward with excitement and anticipation to partnering with him on this journey.”

Matt Cook said:

I am stepping into the role of Artistic and Executive Director at the Sierra Madre Playhouse to expand the playhouse into a full performing arts center as it heads into its 100th year anniversary. I am truly thrilled to lead this remarkable space that weaves together art, culture, and community. My passion for connecting communities through the timeless art of storytelling has found a perfect home here. I am excited to collaborate with our talented team and engage with diverse voices, fostering an environment where stories unfold, conversations ignite, and the magic of the performing arts binds us all.”

A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Cook holds a BA from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, an MFA from the California Institute of the Arts, and a certificate in Marketing Strategy from Cornell University. He is married and has two children.