Samantha Steinmetz memorably appeared in Bedlam's productions of Hamlet, The Seagull, Saint Joan, and their current off-Broadway hit Sense and Sensibility
. The hilarious actress plays the duel roles of the reserved Mrs. Dashwood and the ridiculous Anne Steele. Her scenes as Steele have the audiences in stitches.
When the cast was recently polled as to whom cracks them up most off-stage, Steinmetz topped practically every cast member's list. Intrigued by what makes this comedian tick, BroadwayBox caught up with Samantha Steinmetz to find out about the five funny ladies who inspire her most.
Jenny Slate
Why: She is wild. She is unapologetically bold and risky and committed to her characters.
My first introduction to her: Marcel the Shell with Shoes On. As a teenager, I watched this video almost daily. The wit and whimsicality is extraordinary and to this day, is the most influential piece of comedy I've ever experienced. If you want an idea of my sense of humor, watch this series.
Ultimate performance: Obvious Child.
Amy Morton
Why: Amy Morton might be the reason I'm an actor. I saw her in August: Osage County in my younger years and became enraptured. It seemed as if she were effortlessly doing what I have wanted to do my entire life. She is a powerhouse. I can't take my eyes off of her. She gives me whiplash in the best possible way.
My first introduction to her: August: Osage County.
Ultimate performance: August: Osage County (and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?)
Kathryn Hahn
Why: She is all heart. Her characters are heartbreakingly real and devastatingly hilarious. I can imagine her approaching every character from a place deep within herself and then moving outward.
My first introduction to her: How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days.
Ultimate performance: Transparent.
Danielle Brooks
Why: Danielle Brooks is quickly becoming one of my favorite actors. She makes me laugh one second and cry the next. She is raw and real and hilarious and heartbreaking.
My first introduction to her: Orange Is the New Black.
Ultimate performance: The Color Purple.
Kristen Wiig
Why: Kristen is the ultimate clown. I love the way she embraces the ridiculous. And yet still seeks out roles that challenge her. I just watched The Martian and thought she was fantastic and it was unlike anything she has ever done.
My first introduction to her: Her SNL character, Gilly.
Ultimate performance: Bridesmaids.
You only have until November 20 to see Samantha Steinmetz's fantastic performance in Bedlam's Sense and Sensibility.
