Max’s award-winning performance as The Poet in the challenging one-man show An Iliad marked the culmination of a successful year in 2025.
The show, which featured live music by Sam Meikle, was Max’s first venture of the year at the Dunedin Fringe Festival. He then went on to take on the lead roles in Musical Theatre Dunedin’s Chess and Taieri Musical Society’s Jesus Christ Superstar, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Reflecting on his busy year, Max shared, “It certainly was a whirlwind, with each show presenting its own unique challenges.”
Having been a prominent figure in the musical theatre scene in Dunedin and beyond for the past eight years, Max was drawn to An Iliad after being inspired by a previous performance at the Fortune Theatre.
His experience in musical theatre includes standout roles such as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys and appearances in productions like Spamalot, Les Miserables, and Chicago.
While pursuing his passion for performance, Max has also balanced a job in administration at ACC for the past four years, with the support of his managers.
Looking ahead, Max and his partner Ben Johnson, a talented local performer and musician, are preparing to make the leap to London in pursuit of new opportunities in the vibrant arts scene.
With family ties in Nottingham, they plan to establish themselves in London while exploring various avenues in the performing arts, from pantomime to musical theatre.
Max expressed his excitement for the adventure ahead, stating, “We are approaching this new chapter with open minds and a willingness to embrace whatever comes our way.”
For Max and Ben, the journey to London represents a new beginning filled with potential for growth and exploration in the dynamic arts landscape of the United Kingdom and Europe.
As they embark on this journey together, the couple is ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of London’s performance scene.
brenda.harwood@thestar.co.nz
