A Sexy Comedy for Us Young Folks: Banana Shpeel
As I reported before, the Cirque Du Soleil will be debuting a brand new show in Chicago titled Banana Shpeel. It has cleverly remained under the radar as rehearsals took place this summer and it’s concept is probably the most original to ever take place on a Chicago stage. Unlike, the many safe midwestern classics that have dominated the theatre district, Banana Shpeel is an eclectic fusion of slapstick, dance and vaudeville with an original urban twist. The proscenium-staged spectacle will star Annaleigh Ashford (who played Glinda in Wicked) in addition to a number of triple threats who plan to leave Chicago wanting more come January 3rd.
Spoiler Alert:
The story focuses on Schmelky, the villain, and Emmett, the romantic hero. Emmett is an actor who comes to Schmelky for an audition and instead finds himself captive in his loony sinister world. He falls for the lovely Katie (Ashford) and interacts with a gaggle of crazy characters in the process. There is also a mysterious Banana Man… but they would not tell me anything more about him other than the fact that it is a surprise!
This show would mark a successful 25th year that the Cirque has been in business.
Don’t get left in the dust! The show runs at the Chicago Theatre November 19 – January 3 before moving to New York. Tickets are available for purchase now!
And just in case you missed it:
Comments
By CirqueNYC on September 29th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Thanks for the blog love!!! Feel free to send us thoughts after you’ve seen the show!