Interview: Wayans Brothers Head to West Nyack

WEST NYACK—May 2, 2012 at 04:45 pm

Shawn and Marlon Wayans' comedy career isn't one that began small and blossomed over time—the brothers, youngest of 10 sibilings, started big with the satirical flick I'm Gonna Get You Sucka. 

On the heels of the 1989 release was more mainstream work, like the perenially-in-syndication sitcom The Wayans Bros. and movies like White Chicks.

Now, the two are tackling stand-up—and heading to West Nyack this weekend.

It's the siblings' first time to Rockland; they've played nearby, up north in Poughkeepsie, but never performed live this side of the Hudson.

And though Shawn and Marlon's rapport is what earned them initial accolades and a lengthy career, the two won't be performing in tandem at the Palisades.

"It's more tag-team," Shawn said. "Marlon goes up first, then me."

The only time they share the stage, Shawn said, is when his brother Marlon introduces him.

"The sets are different—we talk about what we're passionate about," Shawn added.

The brothers' disparities are highlighted on Twitter—where Marlon tweets every two minutes, but Shawn is more laconic.

"That's more Marlon's personality," Shawn said. "He has a thought per minute he wants to share with the world."

Fans of the brothers' work—like Scary Movie, or the cartoon Wayneheads—will still see some recognizable capers this weekend.

"You'll see a familiar personality, but more edgy," Shawn said.

Afterall, stand-up is how Shawn Wayans got his start—opening for his older brother, Damon Wayans.

And in terms of future screen work, Shawn Wayans notes there's plenty on the horizon.

"We're in the lab creating," he said.

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The details

What: Shawn and Marlon Wayans at Levity Live

When: Thursday, May 3 at 8 p.m.; Friday, May 4 at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 5 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; and Sunday, May 6 at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $40-$50; buy them here.