Gracious Mattson

About Me

I grew up in Northern Utah as the oldest daughter of a creative family. I knew I would spend my life in the arts when, after years of singing in church, I was cast in a community theatre production of Annie. From the moment the lights shined on my face…I was hooked!

But I wanted more. I saved all my money to be in theatre productions and to take classes—I babysat for voice lessons and taught piano in exchange for dance lessons. In high school, when opportunities to perform felt few and far between, I took matters into my own hands. I wrote scripts and roped my friends into readings, I made music videos, and I even did a basement production of my own adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women!

After graduating from high school, I found my new home for the next four years tucked away in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains: a small, liberal arts college–Southern Virginia University To my surprise, success found me quickly at SVU. My second semester there, I landed a lead role in Sense and Sensibility! After this smashing performance, the world went still from the COVID-19 pandemic, and so did the stage. But I didn’t stop learning! I continued singing and acting, even if it was for a camera in my bedroom. Upon the re-opening of everything, and upon completion of my courses and performances, I graduated with a BA in Theatre and a concentration in Vocal Studies!

I am now located in Lancaster, PA, a place rich with artistry! I wear many hats–I work at the Strasburg Railroad as a performer and music director, I run a piano and voice studio out of my home, and I host an educational theatre podcast with my husband (The Third Act—check us out!). My days are kept busy, but I am cherishing each moment I have to connect with the theatre professionals in this area! I travel up and down the East Coast for auditions regularly, and I can’t wait to find my next golden opportunity!