Mattilyn's remarkable musical journey commenced in her hometown of New Jersey, where she initially gained experience as a gospel soloist, providing harmonious accompaniment to her father's sermons, thus laying the foundation for her future success.
As her talent and confidence grew, Mattilyn's performances soon transcended local boundaries, as she took center stage as the lead singer with Up With People in Europe, bringing her unique voice and charisma to international audiences.
Her travels did not stop there, as Mattilyn went on to perform with Big Band Beat in Asia, where she captivated crowds with her powerful vocals and infectious energy.
In addition to her impressive performance resume, Mattilyn is also the co-founder of Journey to Freedom, a non-profit organization that has made a significant impact in Africa and beyond. This remarkable initiative brings together talented high school students from around the world, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and engage in meaningful public service projects.
Through Journey to Freedom, Mattilyn has not only shared her passion for music with others but has also played a vital role in fostering cross-cultural understanding, community development, and personal growth among the young people involved.
Mattilyn's entry into the world of cinema commenced with a notable debut appearance alongside the esteemed Oprah Winfrey in the film Beloved, subsequently followed by a string of critically acclaimed performances in various independent films. In addition to her work in film, Mattilyn has also made a significant impact on the small screen, with appearances on a range of prominent television shows, including Law and Order: SVU, Boardwalk Empire, Cold Case, and The District.
Furthermore, Mattilyn was featured in the PBS series Beyond the Color Line, where she engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with the renowned Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. alongside other notable figures, including the celebrated authors Maya Angelou and Morgan Freeman.
Mattilyn's extensive theatrical experience has spanned numerous productions, including Sheila's Day at Lincoln Center and A Raisin in the Sun in Los Angeles, showcasing her remarkable versatility as a performer.
In addition to these notable roles, Mattilyn has also had the opportunity to star in several highly acclaimed self-written one-woman shows, a testament to her impressive writing and performance skills.
These artistic endeavors have garnered Mattilyn a plethora of accolades, including nominations for the prestigious Philadelphia Barrymore Award, the esteemed Otto Haas Emerging Artist Award, and the NAACP Theatre Award, further solidifying her reputation as a talented and accomplished actress.
Mattilyn's most recent solo production, aptly titled The Long Goodbye, delves into the profoundly moving and transformative journey of caring for her mother, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, a condition that significantly impacted their previously strained relationship. As Mattilyn navigated the complex and often emotionally charged landscape of her mother's illness, she discovered a newfound sense of empathy, understanding, and ultimately, healing, which is skillfully woven throughout the narrative of her show. The Long Goodbye is set to make its mark at the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2020, where audiences can expect to be deeply moved by Mattilyn's poignant and powerful performance.
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