The University Program Board (UPB) hosted actor and Broadway performer Gaten Matarazzo last Monday, Oct. 13.
The event began at 7 p.m. in the Smith Student Center ballroom.
Matarazzo is most famously known for his role as Dustin Henderson in the Netflix original series “Stranger Things”. He has also acted in multiple Broadway shows, including “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Sweeney Todd” most recently.
Some students began lining up for the show as early as 10:30 a.m., although doors did not open until 6 p.m.
Many students hoped Matarazzo would discuss his experience filming season five of “Stranger Things”.
“I’m interested to see if he gives out any information about the newest season,” one student said.
“I hope he talks about his next Broadway show and his curly hair routine,” another individual said.
Many students were ecstatic when they heard the announcement that Matarazzo was coming to Slippery Rock University. “I literally stood up, screame, and danced all around the theater. I was so excited,” one student said.
Other students were surprised at the news, or even “aghast” as one student put it. “I was like, ‘what strings did they pull?’” an individual said.
Some dedicated “Stranger Things” fans were seen wearing the show’s merchandise in celebration of the event. Students wore shirts featuring the show’s iconic logo. One student even sported Dustin Henderson’s hat from the early seasons.
Matarazzo sat down for a moderated conversation with Dr. Nick Katsiadas.
Matarazzo discussed how he became involved in acting at a young age and how his passion for it developed over time. “I will never forget the first time I walked out on stage, and I was like, ‘oh, okay, cool, yeah’. From there, I was locked in,” he said.
Matarazzo shared some of his favorite memories from his various experiences on stage and filming different roles. He shared behind-the-scenes moments all the way back from filming season one of “Stranger Things”.
The actor said that season five of “Stranger Things” is the season he is most proud of. “I’m so excited for you guys to see it,” Matarazzo said.
Volume one of season five of “Stranger Things” premieres Nov. 26, 2025. Volume two will follow on Dec. 25, with the finale releasing on Dec. 31.
The end of the event featured a question-and-answer portion for students.
Students were able to ask Matarazzo their burning questions about moments in “Stranger Things,” his best Broadway memories, and his most emotional acting scenes.
Students cheered as Matarazzo walked off stage and waved to the audience at the end of the show.
UPB brings various celebrities and speakers to campus every year. If students are interested in attending these events, they can check out UPB on CORE and Instagram to stay up to date on information.
