Matt Schuurman has been a fan of Rapid Fire Theatre since he participated in the Nosebowl Theatresports Tournament in 2001.

Since being hired as Artistic Director in 2015, he has been focused on expanding the programming of Rapid Fire Theatre to include a broader selection of improvised and semi-scripted shows. These efforts have resulted in the creation of dozens of performer-led productions that have challenged the ensemble in exciting new ways while giving the performers more ownership of the work that RFT produces.

He has taught, performed and directed improv all over the world including such places as Milan, London, Dubai, Berlin, Toronto, Vancouver and St. Albert.

In 2019 he commissioned the creation of The Blank Who Stole Christmas, a semi-scripted holiday show designed to become an annual tradition. In its inaugural year, this show was met with critical acclaim, record-breaking attendance, and a nomination for a Sterling Award (Edmonton Theatre Award).

Matt has served the performing arts community either as a volunteer or staff member with a number of organizations including The Arts Touring Alliance of Alberta, The Professional Arts Coalition of Edmonton, Alberta Partners for Arts and Culture and The Sterling Awards. He has also been a television producer, an advertising executive and a 7-11 employee. In 2019 Avenue Magazine named him one of Edmonton’s Top 40 under 40, in recognition for his inclusion & diversity work at RFT.