Scott Schroeder
On the scene since: the Eighties
MVP for: Zachary Scott Theatre Center
Recent Roles: ensemble, The World Goes Round, Zach, 2001; various, Jelly’s Last Jam, Zach, 2001; Dr. Scott, The Rocky Horror Show, Zach, 2000, 1999; various, Candide, Austin Lyric Opera, 2000; The King, Big River, Zilker Theatre, 1999; ensemble, Schoolhouse Rock, Zach, 1999; Ernie, The Who’s Tommy, Zach, 1999; Sancho Panza, Man of La Mancha, State Theater Co., 1997; Smee, Peter Pan, Austin Musical Theatre, 1997.
Honors: Critics Table & Payne Awards, Rocky Horror Show; Critics Table & Payne Awards, Big River; Critics Table award, Schoolhouse Rock; Critics Table award, The Who’s Tommy; Payne Award, Peter Pan.
To look at Scott Schroeder, one might think him to be genial and sweet and nice, all of which he is. But what his gentle demeanor and ruddy, beaming face don’t suggest is the electric energy and unstoppable showmanship that comes through in all his performances. Put this guy under a spotlight and he will belt, strut, and kick ’til the cows come home — which is why he’s racked up more local stage awards the past few years than almost any other actor. Moreover, this mild-mannered carrot top, while adept at playing sweethearts — you just wanted to hug his “Conjunction Junction” engineer in Schoolhouse Rock — can deliver a devil with no trouble. His Cabaret Emcee — reprised briefly in The World Goes Round — radiated demonic glee. Underestimate Schroeder at your peril.
This article appears in September 28 • 2001.