Name: Joel Perez
Hometown: Lawrence, MA
Education: Tufts University, British American Drama Academy, Upright Citizens Brigade
Select Credits: In the Heights, Ensemble, 1st National Tour
Why theater?: I tried my hand at being Pre-Med in college for all of one year. It wasn't for me so I jumped around majors for a while. I had been singing since I was a kid and auditioned for a musical in college. When I realized I liked being at rehearsal more than doing chem problem sets, I knew it was time to refocus. I studied in London at the British American Drama Academy and that experience made me realize that I needed to tell stories for a living.
Tell us about Words Don’t Work: Broken Box Mime Theater Presents Words Don't Work is a collection of unique short stories that are told entirely through movement and mime technique. We also use lights and music to create our environments. It's like nothing you have ever seen before.
What is it like to be a part of Words Don’t Work?: Our company is an ensemble. We all take ownership of our material and develop it together. It a really rewarding experience as an actor because it is truly a group collaboration and we all want our shows to be the best they can be. I was primarily a singer and actor so mime work has really helped to push my abilities as a performer.
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love stories...well-told, unique and coherent stories. I love theater that recognizes that and makes sure the story is paramount. I don't need bells and whistles, just honest storytelling.
What’s it like to be a part of FringeNYC?: It's AMAZING! Being a part of something so big has been really exciting. I'm just grateful to have the opportunity to share Broken Box Mime Theater on such a big scale and feel welcomed in the New York City theater community.
Any role you’re dying to play?: If a film of The Alchemist ever gets made, I want to play Santiago. I'm just putting that out there.
If you could steal anyone’s career, who’s would it be?: Hank Azaria. Hands down.
What show have you recommended to your friends?: I can't wait for Venus in Fur to go to Broadway! I saw it at CSC and was blown away by Nina Arianda. David Ives writes some good shit.
What’s up next?: I'm excited for the future of Broken Box Mime Theater! I'm developing a solo show that will be a part of ANT Fest at Ars Nova on Nov 9th. Mark your calendars! I'm also doing a random production of Fame in Macau in October. No lie!
For more information on Broken Mime Theater, visit http://www.brokenboxmime.com/