BRIEF HISTORY ABOUT POP
OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
POP Productions is the vision of national playwright, Michael Matthews. After climbing to the top of the urban theater ladder and being globally recognized as the God-Father of gospel musical theater, he became ready to give back to the entertainment business by creating theater camps in various cities across the country to train aspiring actors.
In the art of theater and television, POP Productions has established camps in cities such as Detroit, MI., Flint, MI., Saginaw, MI., Cleveland, OH., with more to follow. The goal of POP Productions is to train and prepare artists for the national spotlight and to turn, Michael Matthews', nationally acclaimed stage plays into televised prime time dramas.
POP Productions' ultimate goal is to shoot televised programs year round between the states of Michigan, Ohio, Georgia, and Florida and to produce theatrical stage productions nationally and abroad. Overall, POP Productions is determined to create life-changing opportunities for countless talented artists in front of and behind the camera, and to continue to set a standard for stage productions around the world.
VETA MATTHEWS
CEO • FOUNDER
Mrs. Veta Matthews is thrilled and honored to be a co-writer/producer of the hit gospel musical plays, I Need a Man, Momma, Where Are You?, Ain’t Too Proud To Beg, and Got a Good Woman. Veta Matthews is not new to the arts and has co-written/produced other plays such as, Lord, I Trust You and Danger At My Door. Veta is a talented, Spirit-filled woman of God who draws inspiration from her husband and masterful playwright, Michael Matthews.
Born and raised in the heart of Flint, MI., Veta is a faithful member of Refuge Temple Church of Flint, serves as Chaplin at Hurley Medical Center, and has worked in the educational field for over 29 years. Although she is a dedicated career woman, her heart’s desire is to help people. Veta is Founder and CEO of Prince of Peace Entertainment Productions, better known as “POP Productions”. In partnership with her husband, Michael Matthews, their ultimate goal is to help others achieve their goals and aspirations in the Arts and Entertainment industry. Veta’s strong Christian values make her grounded and prepared for the exciting life that lies ahead for herself and her husband.
"Special thanks to my God who created me, to Jesus Christ who saved me, and to the Holy Ghost who filled me. He is truly the head of my life! I also give a special thanks to the only man I will ever love…my best friend and the love of my life, my wonderful husband, Michael Matthews. May God always be with you!..." -Veta Matthews
SHOWS
GROSS SEATING
PROFITABLE GROSS
GIVEAWAYS
MICHAEL MATTHEWS
COO • PRESIDENT
Michael Matthews, the innovator and pioneer of gospel stage plays, has been a major influence in the lives of many entertainers, producers, playwrights and promoters. He created the model that is used by producers of successful gospel stage plays today. His motivation has always been fueled by a passion to help others. Over his 27-year career he has worn numerous hats, including that of mentor, coach, and adviser.
Never afraid of hard work, Michael, was employed as a factory worker at the age of 18, while also attending Wayne State University. After receiving a real estate license, he opened his own company. His love for music transitioned him into a whole new direction that included touring with many recording artists such as the Staple Singers and Delfonics. It was while on these tours, Michael realized that producing was his next goal. Michael soon became a successful booking agent, responsible for advancing many acts to stardom.
In 1983, Michael, witnessed firsthand the devastation that drug addiction had on a sibling and his entire family. His pain led to an epiphany that a musical could be used to deliver messages educating young people about drug use. In 1984, he wrote the hit gospel musical, Wicked Ways. This was the beginning of a series of successful gospel musicals extending over 10 years including: Momma, Don‘t, Come Out of the Rain, I Need a Man, Who Can you Trust, Sneaky, Fake Friends and Mama I’m Sorry. Stay tuned, as many more exciting projects are on the horizon!
In addition to electrifying gospel plays, the public can look forward to his original plays being converted into novels and television presentations. Long-term goals include movies and building youth mentoring programs across the country. Michael credits God, and the beautiful partnership he has with his wife, Veta, for his successful, “Third Act”. With a new outlook on life and the entertainment industry, Michael, is once again ready to be a blessing to others and leave a powerful legacy of positivity and hope with the world.
LEADERSHIP
OUR STAFF
Regina Mack-Jones
~Chief Grant Writing Director~
Researches, drafts, and submits proposals that ensure grant funding is received for all cities.
Valerie Evans
~Chief Director of Operations~
Manages the organization’s daily business activities and operations. Ensures policies and procedures are carried out properly for Flint and Saginaw, MI.
Lee Roy Evans
~Assistant Chief Director of Operations~
Assists the Chief Director of Operations with organization, communication, and company policies for Flint and Saginaw, MI.
Jessica Jackson
~Director of Marketing and Web Development~
Develops brand strategy, analyses market and competitors, plans annual marketing strategy for POP Production's products and services to support business growth and ambitions. Creates and manages website content, computer server, and technical programming aspects of website.
PATRONS TESTIMONIES
DIVERSITY FOR A DIVERSE AUDIENCE
I have followed your plays since the wonderful and spell-bounding MOMMA DON'T which featured The Clark Sisters and also Lynette Hawkins Stephens. MOMMA DON'T was a fiery play with great gospel music!
The Clark Sisters always 'tore the house' down.
I’m a photographer/artist in Columbus, OH & had the honor to see “Momma I’m Sorry" live in
Columbus, OH in the early 90's while working @ Veterans Memorial Auditorium.
I seen the set up and the hard work in prep for the shows.
It helped me get motivated in my gift.
I owned the soundtrack for Momma I'm Sorry on cassette many years ago and it was one of my favorites!