Matthew Cusick

Matthew grew up in the sport of gymnastics and excelled at his passion since the age of five. He competed in the USAG program until he was seventeen years old and six feet tall. Despite his success in the sport, competition was no longer as intriguing to Matthew as its performance aspect. Seeking to find his way, he began to teach and coach other young gymnasts while diversifying his own skills and increasing his knowledge of the sport. As a high-level coach Mr. Cusick led others to full scholarships and elite level competition.

Matthew's dream to perform was still strong, and he succesfully auditioned for Cirque du Soleil, where he trained intensely for four months. Although Cirque did not turn out to be the ideal company for him, the exposure he received from the incident brought attention to an important subject to mainstream America.

» Read more about the Cirque du Soleil story.

Broadway Bares

Other companies who seek similarly talented performers also took note. One such company is the New York City based Aerial Performance Team AntiGravity, New York's "on-the-go" answer to Cirque. One event that they have helped champion for the past twelve years is Broadway Bares, an annual benefit for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids in which many of the top performers on Broadway come together to help raise awareness and money for HIV/AIDS. To honor Matthew's will to perform; AntiGravity's 2004 production number was built to feature Matthew. Ironically, it would prove to be his first opportunity ever to perform in front of an audience. The sold-out event, held at Roseland Ballroom in New York City raised over $500,000 in one evening, the Anti-Gravity number, which featured Matthew, was the hit of the night with much money being raised as a result of his appearance.

2004 Fire Island Dance Festival   Source: http://www.moodypics.com

The overwhelming response led to another opportunity to perform with AntiGravity, at the 2004 Fire Island Dance Festival, a prestigious benefit featuring dance numbers by the leading dance companies in New York City. This event was produced by DRA: "Dancers Responding to AIDS". AntiGravity Directors Christopher Harrison and Alex Schlempp worked with Matthew to create a solo acrobatic performance art piece that used gymnastics skills and spoken word to give the audience a glimpse of Matthew's life up to his performance debut. At the end of the piece, Matthew received the only standing ovation of the spectacular evening. The NEW YORK TIMES press called it "12 best parties of the year".

Chicago Gay Games opening ceremonies   Source: http://www.planetout.com

Since his termination, Matthew has spoken at many events, including The 2004 United States Conference on AIDS, HIV Pharmaceutical Company's product launches, HIV fundraising benefits, Lambda Legal functions, AIDS Walks, and Pride events motivating others with his story in the hope that they may as well be active in the fight against, and the courage to stand strong in the face of HIV/AIDS discrimination. He continues to pursue his performing goals. He has co-developed , an acrobatic strength and balancing act with Ken Berkeley.

Matthew was the lead featured performer for all four numbers at the 2006 Gay Games Opening Ceremonies in Chicago.

» Visit Matthew's website
» Send an email to Matthew