Matthew Johnson Harris
Deliberate Creator
Work
"I’m drawn to stories that elevate individual lived experiences and embrace intersectionality. As a Black gay man raised in the evangelical South, my perspective shapes every aspect of my storytelling—grounded in authenticity, identity, and nuance. I’m deeply curious about the human experience, and the choices and circumstances that define who we are. " -MJH
Matthew Johnson Harris is a director, choreographer, writer, educator, performer, and developer—but above all, he is a deliberate creator. His role may shift from project to project, but his purpose remains constant: to create with clear intention and thoughtful execution. His work is rooted in message-driven storytelling that invites others to reflect, feel, and connect.
As a director, Matthew began his Broadway journey as the Black Theatre Coalition Directing Apprentice on the Tony-nominated Hangmen, and later served as Associate Director on the Tony-winning revival of Parade. In an era when reimagining masculinity is essential, his current projects—Without Walls by Alfred Uhry, Anonymous Skin by Cris Eli Black, and Did Everyone Have An Imaginary Friend or Just Me? by Jay Ellis—explore themes of intimacy, identity, and the lasting effects of toxic masculinity across generations and gender identities.
As a choreographer, Matthew recently premiered The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre and choreographed Take Me To The World: A Tribute to Stephen Sondheim at Carnegie Hall. His work spans live performances, galas, workshops, and music videos.
Mission
"I believe that how we create art is just as important as the art itself." MJH
In 2023, Matthew helped design the sensitivity framework and cultural dramaturgical resources used in the Tony Award-winning revival of Parade. The Broadway production’s website includes a dedicated resource page featuring materials he created to help guide the cast through the show’s sensitive and complex subject matter.
👉 Click here to watch a video highlighting Matthew's work with the company, and check out this article for a deeper look at the process.
Matthew is also the creator and host of The Art and Soul Video Podcast—a series of thoughtful conversations that delve into self-care, ARTivism, and the distinction between accomplishment and fulfillment. Each episode features guests from a range of lived experiences, faith traditions, and creative disciplines.
Season One includes conversations with Alfred Uhry, Tituss Burgess, Zhailon Levingston, Warren Adams, Charles Randolph-Wright, Skylar Fox, Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis, Rabbi Joshua Stanton, Georgia Stitt, Anthony Wayne, Keenan Scott II, Aisha Jackson, James Sampliner, Molly Kerns, Hailee Kaleem Wright, and others.
Outreach
Matthew is a core instructor at The Alvin Ailey Extension, where he strives to create a space where students of all levels can challenge themselves and leave feeling stronger, more confident, and empowered. As a movement instructor, Matthew has been featured in multiple fitness publications and appeared on camera as a lead trainer for Daily Burn, as well as in campaigns for major fitness brands like BowFlex.
With multiple certifications under his belt, he has had the opportunity to teach at top fitness and wellness institutions, including Equinox, NYSC, Reebok Sports Club, The JCC, Flywheel, BeFitNYC, Core Rhythm Fitness, West End Fitness, and more.
Click here to book a class with Matthew at The Alvin Ailey Extension.
Beyond the studio, Matthew's commitment to outreach and equity led him to found The Mosaic Project in 2016, in collaboration with Middle Church. This initiative raises funds for nonprofits supporting marginalized communities and fosters interfaith dialogue through concerts and productions featuring Broadway performers.
The Mosaic Project has produced 13 performances, showcased over 100 Broadway artists, and raised more than $100,000 for organizations doing vital, justice-driven work.