Thu Jan 01 01:30:00 UTC 2026: Here’s a news article summary and rewrite of the provided text:

Summary:

Broadway star Derek Klena, known for roles in “Jagged Little Pill” and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” is joining the Savannah Bananas, a baseball team in the Banana Ball league known for its entertaining and unconventional take on the sport. Klena announced the move with a musical video showcasing his past baseball experience and excitement for this new venture. The Banana Ball league is a rapidly growing entertainment phenomenon that prioritizes fan engagement and a fast-paced, fun experience.

News Article:

Broadway Star Derek Klena Trades Stage for Swing as He Joins Savannah Bananas

[City, State] – Tony-nominated actor Derek Klena, a familiar face on Broadway stages, is trading the spotlight for the baseball diamond as he joins the Savannah Bananas, the flagship team of the wildly popular Banana Ball league. Klena, 34, known for his leading roles in productions like “Jagged Little Pill” and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” announced his unexpected move with a theatrical flair, releasing a music video on social media that highlights his childhood love of baseball and excitement for this new chapter.

In the video, Klena sings a reimagined version of “Go the Distance” from Disney’s “Hercules,” chronicling his journey from the theater to the baseball field. Dressed in the Bananas’ signature yellow gear, Klena declares his destiny to be with the team.

While Klena is best known for his work on Broadway, with previous roles in “Dogfight,” “Anastasia,” and “Wicked”, he does have baseball experience from when he was a kid.

The Savannah Bananas are the centerpiece of the Banana Ball league, founded in 2023. It is designed to bring energy and entertainment back to baseball. Games feature choreographed dances, modified rules, and constant interaction with the audience. The league has garnered a massive online following for its viral, family-friendly content.

The Banana Ball preseason begins February 26th, with the regular season kicking off April 16th. Ticket information can be found on the team’s website.

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