"Why Not Me? A Sammy Davis Jr. Story" Returns to Evanston Theater

Submitted by the City of Evanston

Due to overwhelming demand, “Why Not Me? A Sammy Davis Jr. Story” will return to the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre (FJT), 927 Noyes St., in Evanston to kick off its 2015 Summertime Season. The play opens on June 13 and will run through June 28 on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.

“Why Not Me? A Sammy Davis Jr. Story,” written by FJT Artistic Director Tim Rhoze, takes place a year before Sammy’s death and gives him the voice to recall the moments that led up to his car accident in 1954 that caused him to lose his eye. He also recounts events after the accident that led him to Judaism and super stardom, both fraught with tremendous challenges. Although Sammy was known as the “greatest entertainer” of the last century, he struggled to find peace away from the bright lights.

Tickets are $12, in advance, and $17 on the performance date. This year, seniors and students can purchase tickets for $10 with proof of a valid ID, at the door only.

FJT tickets can be purchased in advance at the Morton Civic Center, Room 1100, 2100 Ridge Ave., weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and in the FJT lobby at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center starting one hour before show times. Theatre-goers can also purchase tickets online at fjtheatre.com. Please note: A $1 fee per ticket applies for tickets purchased online.

The Saturday, June 20 performance is already sold out.