Broadway star Derek Klena has joined the ranks of the Savannah Bananas, a unique baseball team that infuses traditional baseball with captivating song-and-dance performances. Klena, an accomplished actor who played baseball during his college years at UCLA, brings his dynamic energy to this innovative team.
The Savannah Bananas shared the exciting news on Instagram, welcoming Klena as their newest Entertainment Player with the catchy caption: “From Broadway to Banana Ball. Welcome to the Show, Derek Klena!”
The Savannah Bananas are renowned for their version of the game known as “Banana Ball,” touted as the fastest and most entertaining form of baseball. Every game features choreographed dance routines, often set to popular songs from artists such as Taylor Swift and Mariah Carey. One of their standout elements is the “3-2-2,” which consists of pre-pitch dances during the third inning that have achieved virality with hundreds of millions of views on TikTok.
Fans can expect sensational walk-ups as players make dramatic entrances to the plate, often accompanied by music artists or incorporating elaborate theatrical elements like rain showers. The team’s scoring celebrations are equally inventive, with players running into the crowd and performing fully choreographed dances.
Derek Klena is best known for his recent role in the Broadway hit Moulin Rouge! He has also graced the stage in Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill, where he took on his role from its world premiere at A.R.T in Cambridge. Klena’s impressive career includes playing Dmitry in the stage adaptation of Anastasia and originating the lead role in Dogfight, among other notable performances. His television credits extend across acclaimed shows such as “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Quantico,” and “Law and Order: SVU.”
This collaboration between Broadway and baseball not only showcases Klena’s multifaceted talent but also reflects the Savannah Bananas’ commitment to entertainment, promising fans a unique and exhilarating experience every time they step onto the field.