For those born in the ’60s and ’70s, or as I call it, 80’s generation (that’s me), I remember a group of young, upcoming Hollywood stars who would have a name for themselves with a label that would follow them throughout their careers. Of course, I’m talking about the infamous “Brat Pack.” You know who they are; they were coming off a hit movie at the box office. (For some, it was back-to-back John Hughes’ films). Yes, you got it, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, and Ally Sheedy, to name a few. They were hanging out at a restaurant, making noise, loud talking, and laughing. A reporter saw them, attached a label, and thus the “Brat Pack” (a take-off of the “Rat Pack”) was born.
Long before the “Brat Pack,” the “Rat Pack” was an informal group of entertainers during the late ’50s and early ’60s. (Crooners)as some called them. The group made films and appeared together in Las Vegas Casinos. They consisted of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, and Dean Martin; they became so popular they would tour together, calling themselves the “Rat Pack.” Later, the group would grow to include Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop. Each had a unique quality about themselves, one of which they became so popular, which led to them touring together. In their latter years, as they developed health problems, left the group, or died, another entertainer would join, hoping to keep its legacy alive.
Over the years, movies and stage shows have enlightened us for entertainment. Just when you were wondering when or if you would see another show about the old crooners, your wait is over. This summer, Sammy, Frank, and Dean have set up residency in Atlantic City. No, not the real ones; unfortunately, they have all passed. So, live from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the legendary Rat Pack is back! A musical recreation of the legends has been recreated and will be performing now through December.
Plan that trip to Atlantic City and see how a group of crooners lived up to their legacy. They may not be absolute legends, but the show and music will leave us to understand why they will live in history. For showtimes, visit ticketmaster.com.
