About Me

Hi, I’m Zev Steinrock! If you’re here, you’re probably curious about how I ended up in the world of stage combat and intimacy direction. Well, here’s the short version.

I started off studying Business at the University of Illinois, but the moment I stepped into a student theatre production, I knew I had found my true calling. I switched gears, dove into theatre, and quickly discovered a passion for stage combat. After graduating, I didn’t just want to perform—I wanted to teach. So, I set off on a journey across the country to refine my craft and gain the skills to pass on my knowledge. I became deeply involved with the Society of American Fight Directors, and through the SAFD, met so many brilliant artists and mentors. My grad degree from Michigan State University solidified that teaching would be my lifelong mission.

I’m now a proud Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, where I get to teach and mentor the next generation of actors. My passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom; I’m committed to helping my students grow into strong, capable artists and people who can thrive both on stage and in life.

I’ve been fortunate to be part of the intimacy direction movement since its public emergence in 2016, largely due to my friendships with Alicia Rodis and Tonia Sina. I’ve known Alicia, now the in-house intimacy coordinator for HBO, and Tonia, one of the world’s first credited intimacy directors, for many years—and I even had the honor of officiating Alicia’s wedding! Our friendship opened the door for me to support this movement in meaningful ways. This work has not only transformed how I approach intimacy but has also reshaped my approach to stage combat, making me a better friend, partner, and artist.

When I’m not teaching or working, I love to learn. These days, I’ve been geeking out over rocket ships and space flight (yes, really), but I’m also into fixing things around the house and backpacking —my latest obsession.

I’m incredibly lucky to share my life and work with my wife, Jessica, who is also a key leader in the intimacy direction field and the CEO of IDC. We’re expecting a son, and we’re beyond excited for what’s to come! My family is everything to me, and they are the constant source of inspiration in my life.

Looking forward, I’m excited to bring the new approach to fight direction into more rehearsal rooms. It’s about more than just telling stories of violence; it’s about creating a space where performers feel safe, supported, and empowered. It’s time this industry recognizes the complexity of embodying these challenging stories and commits to doing it with care and respect.

I’m grateful for this journey, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.