Celebrate Sammy Davis Jr.’s centennial with the American Popular Song Society on Saturday, December 13 at Don’t Tell Mama at 12 PM.
Produced by Will Friedwald, the show puts the spotlight on Davis, who was everything, everywhere at once: a phenomenally-talented dancer, singer, actor, impressionist, comedian_and in other guises, a civil-rights leader—as well as being Black, Cuban and Jewish, all of which added up to one of the greatest entertainers of the American century.
This presentation combines rare film and video clips, slides and imagery, and incisive commentary surveying the entire career of Davis, from his humble beginnings on the small-time stage to his glory years as one of the kings of the entertainment industry, as well as his all-important role in the legendary Ratpack with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
Sammy Davis, Jr. (1925-1990) was born in Harlem and raised on the road. He started as a child performer, a tap dancer who worked with his father, Sammy Davis, Sr., and his adoptive “Uncle,” Will Mastin, in song-and-dance trio that played across the circuits of Black vaudeville. Even as an adolescent and a teen-ager he was already appearing in Hollywood films and short subjects.
The program is $20 for non-members of APSS. Reservations (click here) are required for members and non-members (do not call Don’t Tell Mama). Note: food and beverage will NOT be available. (For more info about the American Popular Song Society ad its programs, go to apssinc.org)
Don’t Tell Mama is located at 343 W. 46th St., NYC
