Matt Francis

Founder/Creative Director

Matt is an award-winning director/producer/performer and has been recognized for creative excellence in both stage and film. With over 25 years of experience, he strives to help actors navigate the business of acting and sharpen their audition techniques.

In the last decade he has built a thriving film production and branding company called TAP Productions. During this time, he has made a name for himself by writing and directing several commercials, short films and hosting several large scale film festivals.

Back in 2010, Matt lost his older brother Jason and his father Hank to cancer. Jason was an amazing actor and director with a tremendous passion for teaching. Hank was a huge personality with a passion for people! It is their legacy that Matt was holding high when he created this studio back in 2011. His dream was to do this together with his brother while he battled cancer.

A native North Carolinian, Matt grew up in Sanford, NC, just south of Raleigh. After graduating with a Theatre degree from Catawba College, he toured the country with The Missoula Children’s Theatre out of Montana. He later accepted a position in Southern Pines, NC, heading up the theatre program of over 160 students, at Pinecrest High School. During his time at Pinecrest, he brought his students to North Carolina Theater Conference competitions where they won awards for their work and he won the award for “Best Director in North Carolina” at the state competition.

Matt's creativity and passion are reflected in both his work and in his leisure time. He is a loyal sports fan---especially of the Carolina Panthers! Though matt loves to spend time with friends and family, his passion is his three amazing kids! He calls them his three purposes and prioritizes them above anything he does!

Shannon Stapleton

Production Manager

 After a successful career in the automotive aftermarket Shannon Stapleton decided to take time away from the corporate world to focus on his family. This led to over ten years as a stay at home father of six children and a rediscovery of a childhood passion for photo and video. For several years Mr. Stapleton led the A/V team at his church, expanding the video ministry and developing a team of volunteers. In 2014 he made the commitment to a professional career in media production and began a relationship with The Acting Project. In that time he has worked with large and small businesses, local individuals, along with familiar names like Lars Hedenborg, Chris Elmore, Avidxchange, Good Friends, Richard Petty. In 2018 Mr. Stapleton took on the additional role of AVL Director for The Brook Church NC. He continues his lifelong pursuit of knowledge and a pursuit for excellence in all that he does.