Austin P. McKenzie

Biography

Austin P. McKenzie, born on August 24, 1993, in the United States, is a versatile actor and singer widely recognized for his exceptional portrayal of Melchior Gabor in Deaf West Theatre's acclaimed 2015 Broadway revival of Spring Awakening. His remarkable performance as Melchior garnered immense critical praise, leading to numerous award nominations and an extended run of the show due to its overwhelming success.

McKenzie's journey into the world of acting and performance arts was influenced by his experiences at Lions Camp Tatiyee, a summer camp for individuals with disabilities. It was during his time there that he discovered his passion for American Sign Language and special needs education, prompting him to pursue a degree in these fields at Columbia College Chicago. Graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree in American Sign Language and Vocal Performance, McKenzie laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the entertainment industry.

Following his graduation, McKenzie's career took a significant turn when he caught the attention of director Michael Arden and the team at Deaf West Theatre. Initially aiming to work as an interpreter for their ASL-inclusive production of Spring Awakening, McKenzie's audition for the role of Melchior Gabor instead led to his professional theatre debut, marking the beginning of his successful acting career.

In addition to his acclaimed stage performances, McKenzie has also made a mark in the world of film and television. He starred in the feature film Speech & Debate, adapted from the off-Broadway play by Stephen Karam, showcasing his range and talent on the big screen. Furthermore, his portrayal of young LGBT activist Cleve Jones in the ABC miniseries When We Rise highlighted his ability to embody complex and compelling characters with depth and authenticity.

McKenzie's versatility as an actor was further demonstrated in his role as Fred in the film Unhinged, where he shared the screen with renowned actor Russell Crowe. His ability to immerse himself in diverse roles across different mediums has solidified his reputation as a talented and dedicated performer in the entertainment industry. With a promising career ahead of him, Austin P. McKenzie continues to captivate audiences with his passion for storytelling and his commitment to bringing characters to life with sincerity and skill.