Matthew Alan Smith

Smith, Matthew AlanMatthew Alan Smith 47, of New York City, died May 4, 2014 at his New York apartment. Matthew's nationwide career featured his skills as an actor, singer and musician. Born in Allentown, he was the son of Dale A. Smith and Emily (Bittenbender) Miller. A graduate of Allentown High School, Class of 1985, he attend the University of Hartford, Hartt School of Music, and was a graduate of DeSales University, Class of 1990. He got his show business start locally at Civic Theatre, appearing in a long list of plays and musicals, beginning at age 11. Among his skills: keyboard, tap, singing, acting, stage combat and accordion. He became a member of the prestigious Screen Actors Guild (SAG), AFTRA, and AEA. He worked for the Disney organization in New York and California for over ten years, had extensive stage appearances at Muhlenberg Sumer Theatre, including '20th Century Limited,' plus Sweeney Todd at Portland, Oregon, plus appearances in Maine, Massachusetts, Ohio, and points west. He performed in Japan with the barbershop Dapper Dans Quartet. His last summer theatre performance at Muhlenberg was 'Hairspray' in 2012. Survivors: Father: Dale A. and wife Nancy (Kuhns) Smith of Emmaus, Mother: Emily B. Miller, wife of David A. Miller, II of Macungie, Brother: Paul Smith and his wife Laurie Ann of Alburtis, Niece: Samantha Smith and a Nephew: Adam Smith, Partner: Brian Graziani of New York City, Aunt: Marcia, wife of Herbert Keichel, cousins Dawn and Holly of Allentown. Services: A 'Celebration of Life' service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at 11 A.M. in St. Paul's United Church of Christ 1249 Trexlertown Road, Trexlertown, PA. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the Civic Theatre of Allentown 527 N. 19th St. Allentown, PA 18104. Arrangements by the J. S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown. www.jsburkholder.com.