Production History
BETTE DAVIS AIN’T FOR SISSIES began its life in 2010 as a monologue, when Jessica Sherr’s teacher challenged her to write a performance piece for herself based on a famous person. It was so satisfying to perform in the studio that Jessica decided to present at The New York Fringe Festival, but first she had to develop the script into a full hour. Jessica brought on Theresa Gambacorta to direct and present at FringeNYC 2011. BDAFS sold out all shows and was given an extended run at The Laurie Beechman by Ron Laakso of SpinCycle.
In 2013 Jessica took the show to Edinburgh Fringe where she performed to sell-out crowds. An audience member in Scotland was so impressed with BDAFS, he recommended the show to the St. James Theater in London, where the show was then offered a special engagement to perform immediately following Edinburgh.
"She is sardonic, sultry, sexy, vicious and vivacious, dominating the stage from word one. (Bette would've been proud)"--Broadway Baby
With the success of BDAFS first Edinburgh Fringe run, we returned in 2014 and 2015 to a bigger venue, The Assembly Rooms, and garnered 5-star reviews. She was offered a special engagement at The St. James Theatre in London.
"Sherr is mesmerizing to watch. A dynamic performance"--Edinburgh Guide
The Bette Davis Estate gifted Jessica a pair of Bette’s gloves, scarf and handkerchief to wear in the show.
On Tour:
BDAFS had a critically acclaimed 4-week run at The Athenaeum Theater in Chicago 2017. The show was so well received the artistic director of The Athenaeum requested Jessica expand the show to cover more of Bette’s story and return. After a full year of writing, Jessica returned in 2018 to for another 4-week run, with a much richer story, earning stellar reviews.
"Sherr is a One-Woman Revolution"—Windy City Times
“Audiences will find themselves mesmerized by this animated, energetic performer”—Chicago Theatre Review
BDAFS has had over 400 performances to date and has bee presented in Performing Arts Centers around the country ranging from 300 to 1000 seats.
BDAFS sold out The Invisible Theater in Tucson, Arizona was a smash hit at Ocotillo Performing Arts Center in New Mexico, received a standing ovation at Argenta Performing Arts Center in Arkansas and performed in its first 1000 seat theater at the Bicknell Center in Pittsburg, Kansas.
“BETTE DAVIS IS BAD-ASS” – The Fourth Walsh
“An enlightening portrait of a trailblazing feminist who is indelibly etched upon our collective mind”—Broadway World
Expanding the Show
In January 2020-current, Drama Desk Award Winning Director Karen Carpenter has come on board to direct the current show.
UPCOMING
BDAFS will perform at Jasper Arts Center, Sieminski Arts Center, and Montalvo Arts 2024.
Looking for opportunity for an Off-Broadway Run in New York 2024-2025
Relevance:
Bette Davis was a trailblazer—the first of her kind to break the glass ceiling for woman in the entertainment industry.
Though her battles and victories were generations ago, her story is an inspiration that empowers all humans to fight for what you believe in, to be treated fairly, and never be defined by another’s expectation of you.
Production History- Over 400 performances, IN 27 US STATES, 3 Countries
Europe
St. James Theater, London, England
Edinburgh Fringe, The Assembly Rooms, Scotland, 2013, 2014, 2015
“Rebel with a cause"-Chicago Stage and Cinema
