the perverse

by Borna barzin

Set within a clinical facility where patients are invited to enact their most taboo desires, THE PERVERSE unfolds as a controlled experiment that quickly destabilizes. Disturbing, seductive, and unflinching, the play draws the audience into its orbit, implicating them as witnesses—and participants—in a world where the boundaries of performance and reality collapse.

The play premiered at Queer Nightlife Community Center in September of 2026 - also directed by Borna Barzin. It starred Sam Levine, Hari Nef, Ken Barnett, James Cusati-Moyer, and N’yomi Allure Stewart. It was Executive Produced by Jordan Tannahill and featured an original score by Lauren Flax. Scenic Design by BOND Architects, Lighting Design by GUMGUM Studios, Sound Design by Sinan Zafar, Costume Design by Michelle J. Li, Projection Design by Zack Lobel.

It also received a reading at QNCC in April 2026 as a part of his residency at the institution starring Sam Levine, Hari Nef, Ken Barnett, Gideon Glick, and Mariyea, with Stage Directions by Mihir Kumar.

Production Photos by James Emmerman and Michael Costain.