The next thing I tried - still on the test piece - was steam. I cut out a bigger block for better clamping.
After a few minutes of steaming each side I was able to clamp it. Not as bendy, but at least not breaky.
Unfortunately, the clamping force combined with the softening of the wood after steaming dented the wood.
At this point I'm asking for advice on the best way to bend this 1/16" ply. Perhaps I should be soaking it in water (did I hear Windex somewhere?)... if either, for how long? Perhaps more steam, or maybe the relief cuts with the mitre saw are the best option. Your opinions?