New Musical 'Fritz & Froyim' Opens Off-Bway June 1

Turtle Shell Productions will present the world premiere of new musical Fritz & Froyim, with book and lyrics by Norman Beim (Success) and music by Mark Barkan (writer for Nat King Cole, Vic Damone, Elvis Presley and Paul Anka) and Rolf Barnes (composer, conductor for Volpe). The show is based on Romain Gary's novel The Dance of Genghis Cohn, and will be directed by Turtle Shell Productions Artistic Director John W. Cooper.

Press notes describe the show, "Fritz, a former SS trooper, is visited by Froyim, the ghost of a Jewish comedian. Unfortunately the visitor seems to have no intention of leaving. Fritz resorts to all sorts of subterfuge to rid himself of this supernatural imp since its presence is wreaking havoc with his life. But how can one get rid of a presence who no one else can see? Is it possible for Fritz to come to terms with this thorn in his side? Brechtian in form, the melodic score contains poignant ballads and ironic songs. There is also a ventriloquist act, a tap dancing ghost, electric shock treatment and a phony exorcist with a magic act."

The world premiere production begins performance at Turtle Shell Productions' new space, May 30 at 8:00 pm, with two previews, and opens officially on Friday, June 1 at 8:00 pm. Performances for this limited engagement continue Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00 pm with 3:00 pm performances on Saturday June 9 and Saturday June 16, and two special performances on Monday June 4 and Monday June 11 at 7:00 pm. The final performance takes place at 8:00 pm on Saturday, June 16. All tickets are $18.00; $12.00 for students with ID and seniors. For reservations, contact SmartTix June or call 212-868-4444. For Group Sales call 212-265-8500. Turtle's Shell Theater is located directly across the street from Second Stage at 300 West 43rd Street, 4th Floor just off 8th Avenue.

For more information, visit www.turtleshellproductions.com.