'Sammy Davis, Jr.: Rat Pack Legend to Civil Rights Trailblazer' Webinar

Tickets: $12 (includes access to the full replay for one week)

Click the link below to officially register for this experience:

https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1972571148405

He sang, he danced, he joked, he acted — and he broke barriers every step of the way. How did a one-eyed Black, Cuban, Jewish entertainer from Harlem become one of the most celebrated stars of the 20th century? From dazzling highs to dramatic lows, it's time to examine an American icon who truly did it all.

Join New York Adventure Club for a critical discussion on the extraordinary life and legacy of Sammy Davis, Jr. (1925-1990), whose groundbreaking journey from vaudeville stages to global superstardom is a tale of talent, tenacity, and timeless charm.

Led by Grammy-nominated author and music historian Will Friedwald, our guided virtual commentary surrounding Sammy Davis, Jr.’s legendary career on his centennial will include:

• A discussion of Sammy’s early start in showbiz, from dancing in the Will Mastin Trio on the Black vaudeville circuit to appearances in early film shorts
• Breaking into the mainstream, with national TV appearances, top nightclub bookings, and stardom as one of the first African American headliners in Las Vegas
• An analysis of personal turning points, including his harrowing World War II service, the car accident that cost him an eye, and his conversion to Judaism
• Life at the center of the Rat Pack, from his friendships with Frank Sinatra and JFK to balancing fame and the fight for racial equality
• Commentary on his stage and recording milestones, including Mr. Wonderful, Golden Boy, and a string of hits like “What Kind of Fool Am I” and “The Candy Man”
• A review of his activism and legacy, from civil rights marches with Dr. King to the backlash over his Nixon-era White House visit, and his lasting cultural influence

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Will — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.
See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About Will
Will Friedwald is a featured arts writer for The Wall Street Journal and Vanity Fair, and the award-winning author of ten books on music and popular culture, including the new Straighten Up and Fly Right: The Life and Music of Nat King Cole, as well as A Biographical Guide To The Great Jazz And Pop Singers, Sinatra: The Song Is You, Stardust Melodies, Tony Bennett: The Good Life, Looney Tunes & Merrie Melodies, and Jazz Singing. He has written over 600 liner notes for compact discs, received ten Grammy nominations, and appears frequently on television and other documentaries. He is also a consultant and curator for Apple Music.

Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
This event is an educational presentation organized by New York Adventure Club and is not affiliated with Sammy Davis Jr., his estate, or any other associated entities, institutions, or rights holders. Our event is a fan-inspired experience celebrating the life, work, and cultural contributions of Sammy Davis Jr. Any references to Sammy Davis Jr., his performances, or related materials are made solely for educational and entertainment purposes, and no official endorsement or sponsorship is implied. Sammy Davis Jr. and related trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment