Angela Zhou, a New Zealander of Chinese descent, had the extraordinary good fortune of being born in the captivating city of Guangzhou, China, a location that would subsequently have a profound impact on her linguistic and cultural identity. Growing up in Auckland, New Zealand, Zhou was endowed with the privilege of being raised by parents who were both fluent in Mandarin, a language rich in cultural significance and passed down from her maternal lineage, and Cantonese, a language deeply rooted in tradition and heritage from her paternal lineage.
Angela's life took an unexpected turn when a scheduling conflict at her high school led her to make a spontaneous decision to enroll in a drama class, an impromptu move that would unwittingly set her on a path that would forever alter the trajectory of her life's journey.
Angela's remarkable journey of self-discovery and artistic growth unfolded as she skillfully honed her skills, allowing her to transcend the boundaries of mere acting and venture into the uncharted territories of writing and directing.
Angela's unrelenting passion for the timeless and majestic works of William Shakespeare played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic trajectory, driving her to embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative exploration, which ultimately led her to become deeply entrenched in the world of theatrical performance, where she had the esteemed privilege of being a part of the renowned SGCNZ's Young Shakespeare Company.
Angela's artistic journey was marked by a profound apprenticeship under the guidance of distinguished instructors, who expertly guided her through a comprehensive regimen of acting training and rehearsals. Through this intense and immersive experience, she was able to meticulously refine her craft, gradually cultivating a profound comprehension of the intricate subtleties inherent in Shakespeare's works, as well as the intricate technicalities of stagecraft.
Angela's journey as a performer reached its pinnacle with a rare and extraordinary chance to set foot on the revered stage of the illustrious Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London, an esteemed institution rich in heritage and customs. This life-altering experience undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Angela's artistic growth, profoundly influencing her evolution into the skilled and committed artist she has become.
Angela's academic odyssey persisted unimpeded as she made the bold decision to relocate to the United States, fueled by an unrelenting passion to further her educational pursuits at the illustrious Duke University, where she was bestowed the distinguished Robertson Scholarship, a testament to her exceptional academic merit.
Angela, a highly accomplished individual, obtained her A.B. degree with a triple major in Politics, Economics, and Creative Media, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey.
