You would never suspect Political Science-major Steven Perlberg ’13 to be able to sing along to the entire Les Miserables soundtrack, nor that he’s an ex-child stand up comedian. His interest in theater has led him to take on the position of director of Cast and Crew’s production of The Rocky Horror Show. He’s quite the catch, ladies, so unless you’re Scarlett Johansson, read more to find out how to win his heart.
Name: Steven Perlberg
Year: 2013
Major: Political Science, Anthropology
Campus Involvement: Cast and Crew, WashU Political Review, Beta Theta Pi Fraternity
Her Campus: When/how did you get involved in theatre?
Steven: I have always been into performing, and I actually used to be a child stand up comedian from ages 7 to 13. I performed at local events, radio shows, and opened at comedy clubs. I don’t know exactly how funny I was, but that was first time I realized I like being on stage. In high school, I got more into theatre, and towards the end of high school, I realized I’m more into directing than acting.
HC: I see. And how did you get involved in Cast and Crew?
Steven: Kind of on a whim, actually. I auditioned for some shows sophomore year and nothing worked out. So when I was feeling down, a friend showed me a Cast and Crew audition poster. I auditioned, got a nice part, and it turned out to be a great experience and show. After that, I decided I was into directing, and wanted to get more involved in it.
HC: Why do you like directing more than acting?
Steven: I guess I think directing is more the big picture, and I just enjoy focusing on the complete nature of the show. I like to see the fruits of my labor, rather than being on stage.
HC: Interesting. So what’s your favorite thing about being a director?
Steven: (whispers) The power.
HC: I can imagine. And what is your biggest struggle as a director?
Steven: You have to keep a lot of balls in the air at once. There are a lot of little things going on, and you’re at the top of the chain of command, so the toughest thing is delegating what needs to be delegated, and figuring out what needs to be done myself.
HC: What makes student theater unique?
Steven: I think student theater is unique in that there is a certain culture to it that I enjoy. Everyone is serious about what they’re doing, but I think that we’re all here to have fun, so I try to remind myself of that.
HC: What is your favorite musical?
Steven: My favorite musical is Les Miserables. In fact, when I drove from Florida to St. Louis this summer, I listened to the entire soundtrack twice, belting out every word to every song.
HC: That’s quite impressive. And if you could direct any show, what would it be and why?
Steven: Hm, first of all, I love musicals but they’re not really my passion, so I’d want to direct a straight play. I’d like to direct something challenging yet interesting, so perhaps Chekhov’s The Seagull. Because I think when done right, Chekhov’s plays can be very powerful, and there is so much there to discover and work with actors. I think it’d be a very fulfilling experience.
HC: Who would you cast?
Steven: The entire cast of Law & Order SVU.
HC: Good choice. What should we expect from this show?
Steven: A raunchy, lingerie-filled sextastic orgy rock musical.
HC: Who is your celebrity crush?
Steven: Scarlett Johansson. I think she’s banging. Oh, and also because I love Lost in Translation.
HC: Where do you think you’ll be in ten years?
Steven: When I’m 31… hm… physically, Washington D.C.. Hopefully working in either politics or journalism, but most likely some desk job because I’ll probably have sold my soul by then.
HC: If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?
Steven: Magneto.
HC: Inspiration for your style?
Steven: Are you saying I dress badly?
The Rocky Horror Show will show in the Village Blackbox, October 28th-30th (Friday at 7:30pm, Saturday at 2pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday at 2pm). Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the DUC a week prior to the show, or at the door.