The Associated Press reports that auditions will be held this month in cities around the country for two performers to play the role of the award-winning singer. Gerry Dedera, who will direct the bio musical, said in a statement, "The show will focus on Sammy's triumph over his own doubts and fears, and will recreate the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing Sammy live." Auditions for Mr. Bojangles: The Ultimate Entertainer will be held in Chicago (Jan. 10), New York (Jan. 17) and Los Angeles (Jan. 24). Mr. Bojangles will tour major casinos beginning this year. No Broadway dates have been announced.
Born in Harlem, New York, in Dec. 1925, Sammy Davis Jr. became one of the world's most acclaimed entertainers. His numerous hit songs included "Mr. Bojangles," "I've Gotta Be Me" and "The Candy Man." He also triumphed on screen in such films as "Porgy and Bess," "Ocean's 11" and "Sweet Charity." Sammy Davis Jr. died from throat cancer in May 1990.
