In 1960, three already-legendary performers — Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin — joined forces to form what would become the first supergroup of popular music. But how did this music and comedy trio transform the American entertainment landscape within just a few short years, and why are they still talked about decades later? This is the incredible story behind the legendary Rat Pack ensemble and the brief shining moment in popular entertainment that could never happen more than once.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the full history of the Rat Pack — first composed of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin in 1960, this outstandingly popular singer-entertainer trio quickly became one of the most popular acts in show business, thanks to their memorable performances that mixed first-rate music with comedic bits.

Led by Will Friedwald, columnist for the Wall Street Journal, our virtual analysis of the legendary Rat Pack and their legacy on stage and screen will include:

• The behind-the-scenes story of the so-called "Rat Pack," from the forces that united the core trio (Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin) to the occasional additions like actor Peter Lawford, comedian Joey Bishop, and superstar TV host Johnny Carson
• A discussion around how the Rat Pack integrated cutting-edge stand-up comedy into their performances, and why their goal was nothing less than to take ethnic stereotypes and ridicule them to the point where no one could take them seriously any longer
• The significance of the group's racial diversity, which represented the first moment in popular culture that African-American and Caucasian entertainers worked together on stage as equals
• What led the group to separate in 1965, and their celebrated final joint appearance that was considered the greatest Rat Pack concert of them all
• The legacy of the Rat Pack and why so many show biz stars of the last 50-60 years have tried unsuccessfully to match their musical talent, whiskey-fueled high jinks, and irreverent humor

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Will — any and all questions about the Rat Pack 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 — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

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.

Testimonials

"Well-organized, detailed information, excellent presenter - knowledgeable and entertaining." -Charles

"Oh, that was fun! It was really wonderful to get more context about this... how do you even put it? Cultural phenomenon? The performances were delightful to watch, and Will gave such an informative and interesting presentation." -Bee

"As a Rat pack fan, I found it very entertaining and informative, not to mention enjoyable." -John

"Awesome and fun. Great content. Good energy. " -Nancy

"I totally enjoyed hearing a lot of information I never knew!" -Kenda

"Will does a great job with these webinars. Please keep the musical ones coming!" -Cynthia

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Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment