Zach Zembrowski in the Sunset Spotlight. Zach is currently playing Leo Bloom in our summer blockbuster musical: THE PRODUCERS which runs through August 5, 2018.
- When did you first become involved at Sunset Playhouse and what areas have you been involved with here at the Playhouse?
My first experience at Sunset was helping with Lights for Jesus Christ superstar in 1999 when my brother was a part of the cast. I have also been heavily involved with backstage help whenever I possibly can. But my fist on stage experience was playing Albert Soady in Escanaba in love in 2010. I shared the stage with Bob Zimmerman for that production as well.
- If you are working on a Sunset show right now, what is your role?
It is still surreal to say this, but I have the privilege of portraying Leo Bloom, the shy and lonely public accountant with big dreams of becoming a Broadway producer. This role has been a dream of mine since I first saw Gene Wilder in the 1968 movie, and again when seeing the musical adaptation where Matthew Broderick took on the character. Two iconic performances and now I get my chance to step into the role of a lifetime.
- If an actor, what has been your favorite role to date and what is your dream role? If a Production Team member, which show have you most enjoyed working on? What show would you like to do in the future?
Honestly, without a doubt this role, Leo Bloom. I have a few other roles that would be really cool to try and take on, but this one has topped my list for as long as I can remember. This experience as a whole has not disappointed either. To not only play a bucket list role, but to be on stage with a cast of this caliber is impossible to believe is happening. Bob, Molly, Eric, Steven, Andrew, and the whole of the ensemble guided by the vision of Tommy, Nikki, and Reggie. Has truly made this show the jaw dropping must see it is.
- What do you enjoy most about the Sunset?
Sunset has always been a venue known for putting on shows beyond the “community theater” label. While opening its doors to people of every level of experience and welcoming them into what really becomes a supportive family, Sunset also hold everyone to professional standards and that balance really helps bring the very best out of each and every person involved in the process.
- When not at Sunset, how do you spend your time?
In my professional life I am a Brewer with Milwaukee Brewing Company. But there is a little Leo Bloom in me, in that I am a more reserved person who enjoys quiet activities and spending time with fiends and loved ones.
- What is your favorite color/food/movie/TV show/book/musical or play?
My favorite color is Blue, pizza is a food I don’t think I will ever tire of. My favorite movie is The Princess Bride, I lose myself on Netflix and Hulu watching and re-watching TV shows like The Office, Parks and Rec, and Bob’s Burgers. My favorite book is The Hobbit. And my favorite play is Noises Off.
- What is your favorite quote?
“As you wish”. If you know the source, it means so much more than what it says.
- Any other comments?
To every person from the production team, the volunteer team, the orchestra, technical team, and the incredible onstage talent involved in this wonderful production- From the bottom of my heart I am forever in your debt for making this experience a dream come true and an experience I will never ever forget.
Head Shot – Wimmer Photography