Whether you’re a fan of ding-dong ditch or swapping the salt with sugar, anyone with a penchant for mischief loves April Fools Day. And, for the reading rascals among us, it is certainly no coincidence that Herman Melville’s final novel, “The Confidence Man,” the tale of a slippery con man and his adventures along the Mississippi, was published on April 1, 1857.
Brooklyn’s very own 19th-century home for confidence men (and women), Coney Island, is pulling out all the stops to celebrate this trickster’s holiday and pay homage to Melville.
Vaudeville champion Travis S.D. (pictured) will be staging a production of “The Confidence Man” on April 1 at Sideshows by the Seashore — not quite Dreamland, but certainly more inspired than what Thor Equities wants to build.
“In the last decade, critics have really rediscovered this book,” Travis S.D. told GO Brooklyn. “Everyone always knows ‘Moby Dick,’ but ‘The Confidence Man’ is extremely interesting and a bit more experimental, proving Melville was always ahead of his time.”
Proceeds from this event benefit the nonprofit arts organization, Coney Island USA, which runs the Coney Island Museum, the Mermaid Parade, the Coney Island Film Festival and other sideshow celebrations. So, be sure to bring your favorite practical jokes, in addition to some real cash, with you and chip in to support monkey business on the ever-changing sideshow stage of Coney Island.
“The Confidence Man,” will take place at 5 pm on April 1 at Sideshows by the Seashore (1208 Surf Ave. at West 12th Street). Admission is $10. For information, visit www.coneyislandusa.c….
