Photo Coverage: Banana Shpeel Opens at The Beacon

Banana Shpeel celebrated it's opening night yesterday, May 19 at 7:00pm at the Beacon Theatre. Previews began on April 29 and performances are scheduled until August 29. BroadwayWorld was there to capture the starry arrivals.

Banana Shpeel is the latest show from producer extraordinaire Marty Schmelky and features a colorful array of slapstick comedy, eclectic dance and unique acrobatic acts. The larger-than-life personality presents the diverse talent he has gathered from around the world, as zany characters spread chaos throughout the theatre.

In his long and illustrious career, Schmelky has created such unforgettable hits as The Phantom of the Banana; Annie Get Your Banana; Fiddler on the Banana; The Best Little Banana in Texas; Bring in da Noise, Bring in da Banana; and Gentlemen Prefer Bananas.

Banana Shpeel Writer and Director David Shiner started out as a mime in Paris. His career took off in 1984 when he was discovered at the renowned circus festival Cirque de Demain. Shiner later teamed up with Bill Irwin to create the wordless two-man show Fool Moon, which played from 1992 to 1999, including three Broadway runs. Fool Moon picked up numerous prizes, including a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award and an Outer Critics Circle Award. In 2007, Shiner directed his first Cirque du Soleil production, the big top touring show KOOZA.

Banana Shpeel tickets are available for performances through August 29, 2010 and can be purchased at www.schmelkyproductions.com or www.ticketmaster.com or at 1-866-858-0008.

May 21 - August 29, 2010: Tickets range from $45 to $110, with a limited number of premium seats. The show plays Wednesday at 2pm & 8pm, Thursday & Friday at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm & 8pm and Sunday at 2pm & 6pm.

Photo Credit: Genevieve Rafter Keddy