Stranger Things Star Gaten Matarazzo to Teach Acting and Singing Classes in Indianapolis
For fans of the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things,” the chance to see a cast member in the flesh is always exciting. While the show’s eerie and nostalgic setting of Hawkins, Indiana, may be fictional, the opportunity to meet one of its stars is becoming a reality for fans in the Hoosier State. Gaten Matarazzo, who plays the loveable and quick-witted Dustin Henderson, is set to bring his talents to Indianapolis this August.
A Unique Opportunity with Discovering Broadway
The appearance is part of an initiative by Discovering Broadway, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to nurturing creative talent in central Indiana. This organization invites Broadway professionals and other creative teams to the heartland to develop musicals and share their expertise with the local community. It’s not every day that Hoosiers get the chance to learn from a Broadway star, let alone one who also has a prominent role in a beloved TV series.
Matarazzo is scheduled to lead two classes—one focused on acting and the other on singing—on August 16 at Butler University. He will be joined by Nathan Salstone, another Broadway talent with credits in “Sweeney Todd” and “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” Together, they will guide participants through the intricacies of acting and vocal performance, offering insights drawn from their extensive experience on the stage and screen. Unfortunately for those eager to join, tickets for these classes have already sold out, reflecting the high demand to learn from these accomplished artists.
Samantha Pauly: Dance Classes on the Horizon
For those who missed out on Matarazzo’s classes, another exciting opportunity is just around the corner. Samantha Pauly, a Broadway actress currently starring in “The Great Gatsby” musical, will be teaching dance classes on August 22. Pauly is no stranger to the Broadway spotlight, having been an original cast member of the musical “Six” in 2021. Her portrayal of Jordan Baker, a high-society golfer in “The Great Gatsby,” has been met with critical acclaim, making her dance classes a must-attend event for aspiring performers in the area.
Pauly’s classes will be held at Grace Church in Noblesville, a northern suburb of Indianapolis. Unlike Matarazzo’s sessions, there’s still time to reserve a spot in Pauly’s classes by visiting Discovering Broadway’s official website. Whether you’re a dancer looking to refine your skills or a fan eager to learn from a Broadway star, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
Stranger Things: A Phenomenon Filmed Far from Indiana
“Stranger Things,” which first captivated audiences in 2016, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show’s combination of 1980s nostalgia, supernatural horror, and compelling characters has earned it a dedicated global fanbase. Despite the Indiana setting, the show is actually filmed in Georgia, where locations like the Hawkins National Laboratory and the town’s eerie woods are brought to life.
As the show approaches its fifth and final season, set to premiere on Netflix in 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of this beloved story. Over the years, Indiana has hosted several “Stranger Things” events, including public appearances by stars Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven) and David Harbour (Sheriff Hopper) at the Indiana Comic Convention in 2017 and 2018, respectively. These events have helped cement the show’s connection to Indiana, even though the cast rarely visits the state.
Gaten Matarazzo: From Broadway to Hawkins
Gaten Matarazzo, at just 21 years old, has already built an impressive resume. Born in Connecticut, Matarazzo began his career on Broadway, where he starred in the 2014 production of “Les Misérables” as Gavroche. His Broadway credentials don’t end there; he also played Tobias in the 2023 revival of “Sweeney Todd.” These roles highlight his versatility as a performer, seamlessly transitioning from the Broadway stage to the small screen.
In addition to his acting career, Matarazzo is also a musician. In 2019, he was scheduled to perform with his rock band, Work in Progress, at the Hoosier Dome in Indianapolis. Unfortunately, the show was canceled when Matarazzo fell ill while on tour. Despite this setback, his involvement in both acting and music continues to thrive, making him a multifaceted artist who’s always on the move.
Conclusion
Discovering Broadway’s initiative to bring stars like Gaten Matarazzo and Samantha Pauly to Indiana offers a rare chance for local performers and fans to learn from the best. Whether you’re honing your acting, singing, or dancing skills, these workshops are invaluable opportunities to grow under the guidance of industry professionals. As “Stranger Things” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, events like these bring the magic of the show—and Broadway—closer to home. For Indiana’s aspiring actors, singers, and dancers, the opportunity to learn from these stars is nothing short of extraordinary.
