For Matthew Olver, Christmas has always been a season filled with laughter, family and a touch of rock and roll. As a child, one of his most cherished memories was spending the holidays in Ottawa at his grandparents’ house, surrounded by extended family. Another unforgettable moment came at age 12, when he unwrapped a gift that every music fan dreams of… tickets to his very first rock concert! The band? None other than KISS. The best part? He went with his mom.
Fast forward a few decades and Matthew’s favourite gift looks a little different. These days, he treasures the time to slow down and spend Christmas with friends and family. That mix of fun and heart is something he also brings to the stage this season in Cow Patti’s production of Ethan Claymore’s Christmas.
With about 40 years in show business (which he jokingly calls “just a blink of an eye”), Matthew brings a wealth of experience to the Tin Roof Event Centre. Over the years, he has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the business, including the Academy Award-winning Jeremy Irons. Whether it’s performing, collaborating, or teaching, his career has been marked by a love of craft and a knack for creating connection.
Matthew’s Christmas tastes are as eclectic as his career. His favourite song is The Little Drummer Boy, and every year he and his wife, Lisa, watch Scrooged (with Die Hard a close second). On the holiday dinner table, it’s the stuffing that steals the show… no contest. And when it comes to Christmas morning, Matthew is clear that sharing it with Lisa is what makes the day complete.
Outside of the theatre, Matthew loves both cats and dogs, wide-open spaces, and Alberta’s breathtaking mountains. He’s also currently reading Stephen King’s 11/22/63, a time-bending story that proves he’s never far from a good narrative. His advice to his younger self? “Don’t forget to stretch!” It’s a tip every performer, and perhaps every holiday shopper, could use.
This season, audiences can look forward to seeing Matthew Olver bring his trademark warmth, humour and experience to Ethan Claymore’s Christmas. From his rock concert roots to his love of Christmas classics, Matthew embodies the spirit of joy and connection that makes this time of year so special.