Artist Description
Max was born and raised in New York, and is the youngest of four children. His mother, Rita, is currently semi-retired and the proud grandmother of eight. His father, Thomas, was a career firefighter who rose to the rank of NYC Fire Commissioner (a post he held during the 9/11 attacks on the United States). Thomas von Essen's autobiography, "Strong of Heart", was recently published by Regan Books.Max also contributed a chapter to the book, "I Love You, Mom!” published by Hyperion Books. It is a collection of essays by various people, from performers to politicians, sharing stories about their moms.
Max attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he double-majored in Voice and Economics. He spent most of his first year out of college touring with the legendary Liza Minnelli as one of three featured singer/dancers on her international concert tour. He spent the next year in Europe performing in West Side Story, as Tony.
In addition to his theatre projects, concerts, workshops and readings, Max has donated his time and talent to fundraising events, benefiting many worthy causes. He took part in BroadwayWorld.com's sold out concerts, STANDING OVATIONS. The concerts and subsequent DVD will benefit BC/EFA. He performed in the concert presentation of CHILDREN OF EDEN, THE SECRET GARDEN and RAGS for The National AIDS Fund and The Joey DiPaolo AIDS Foundation. He's also taken part in benefits for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, The LGBT Community Center, God's Love We Deliver, and The Matthew Shephard Foundation.
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