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Maxwell Zheng: Actor, Scholar, Innovator

A high school student, professional performer, and American College of Cardiology Young Scholar, I combine top-tier academics (4.2 GPA, 30 ACT Score at age 13) with lead roles in opera and musical theater, and research in cardiology.

Research, Leadership, and Community Impact

Academic Excellence & STEM Leadership

About Max

The Interdisciplinary Talent: Stage, Lab, and Classroom

Performance and Arts

Professional Performer contracted with MGMT Artists. National Finalist (Top 5) in the NATS Voice Competition, specializing in Classical Music and Musical Theater Starred in lead protagonist roles with the Kentucky Opera, including “Bilbo Baggins” (The Hobbit) and “Amahl” (Amahl and the Night Visitors)Composer of the original piece “Summer Times,” performed by a professional string quartet.

Academics and STEM

Current Grade 10 student with a 4.2 GPA. Achieved a Composite 30 on the official ACT at age 13.Scored a 5 on self-studied AP Psychology and a 4 on AP Human Geography. Member of the Robotics team that won the National Robotics Championship 2024 and competed in the Robotic World Championship. State Finalist in Mathematics (KY Governor’s Cup).

Research, Leadership, and Volunteering

Selected as an American College of Cardiology (ACC) Young Scholar. Co-author of two medical case reports on cardiovascular topics. Active in school governance as a member of the Student Council and the Math Honors Society. Volunteers extensively, including at nursing homes and participating in the “HAND in HAND” Immersion Trip. Fluent in English and Chinese.

Lead Performer

Robotics Champion

Published Researcher

Bilingual & Multitalented

Achievements

From Opera Stages to World Championships

National and International Honors

National Finalist (Top 5) in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Voice Competition 2024 in Knoxville, TN.
National Quarterfinalist/Winner 2024 in both Musical Theater and Classical Music categories of the NATS Voice Competition.
National Semifinalist/Winner 2024 in the Classical Music category of the NATS Voice Competition.
National Robotics Championship 2024 Winner with the Holy Spirit School VEX team, which competed in the Robotic World Championship in Dallas, TX.
Regional Winner in Classical Music and Musical Theater Categories at the National Association of Teachers of Singing Mid-South Regional Voice Competition 2024 (for TN, KY, Memphis Chapters).
WINNER: HONORABLE MENTION AWARD at the VAMS Young Vocalist Competition 2025 (National)
International Academic Competition, USA

State and Regional Academic Awards

Governor's Cup 2024 State Finalist, Mathematics, ranked Top 10% in all State Finalists, KY.
Governor's Cup 2024 Regional Winner, Mathematics.
Selected as KENTUCKY Jr. High All-State Choir, as Alto, for 2024-2025.
Received "Distinguished Award" by WMSFA Vocal Solo and Ensemble (4/14/2025).
Received Multiple Certificates of Highest Academic Achievement for 2023-2024 from Holy Spirit School in Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Religion.
Received "Certificate of Achievement" for Best Comprehensive GPA for 2023-2024 from Holy Spirit School
Recognized as a District Candidate for KY Governor's Cup 2023 ("Outstanding in Mathematics").

Performance and Role Highlights

American College of Cardiology Young Scholar (since 2024).
Cast as the Lead Protagonist, "Bilbo Baggins," in the Kentucky Opera Production of The Hobbit (May-June 2024).
Lead Protagonist "Amahl," in the Kentucky Opera production of Amahl and the Night Visitors (upcoming 12/2024)
Cast as the Lead Protagonist in the upcoming Kentucky Opera production of The Adventures of Robinhood Robinhood (upcoming 6/2026).
Honor Roll Student with a 4.2 GPA at Dupont Manual High School.
Scored a 4 on the AP Human Geography Exam and a 5 on the AP Psychology Exam (self-studied).
Official ACT Composite Score of 30 (at age 13).
Official IQ tested: Top 2 Percentile (2021).

Lead Roles & Show-Stopping Performances

Maxwell on Stage

The Hobbit – Bilbo Baggins (Lead Protagonist)

Took center stage as the adventurous Bilbo Baggins, delivering a performance praised for its charm, humor, and emotional depth.

Amahl and the Night Visitors – Amahl (Lead Protagonist)

A heartfelt portrayal of Amahl, blending acting, vocal skill, and emotional storytelling to standing ovations.

American College of Cardiology Young Scholar

Selected in 2024, co-authored medical case reports and presented at professional conferences, with plans to join the Alumni Leadership Program.

Bundibar – Dog (Lead Support)

A lively, comedic role that showcased Maxwell’s versatility and stage presence.

Frozen JR. – Oaken (Lead Support)

Brought humor and energy to the stage in this beloved Disney adaptation.

Mean Girls JR. – Kevin G (Lead Support)

Delivered a confident, crowd-pleasing performance as the charismatic Kevin G.

Winner – VAMS Young Vocalist National Award (Honorable Mention)

Winner of the VAMS Young Vocalist National Award (Honorable Mention), showcasing exceptional talent in vocal performance.

National Finalist – National Association of Teachers of Singing (Classical & Musical Theater)

National Finalist in the National Association of Teachers of Singing, excelling in both Classical and Musical Theater categories.

Moments that tell a story

Maxwell's Gallery

Every performance, competition, and award has a story behind it — and these moments capture the magic. From commanding the spotlight in lead opera roles to celebrating victories at national competitions, Maxwell’s journey is best told in snapshots and stage lights.

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