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BETTE DAVIS AIN'T FOR SISSIES to Return to Puffin Cultural Forum

Jessica Sherr's solo show, directed by Karen Carpenter, explores Davis's Hollywood legacy.

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BETTE DAVIS AIN'T FOR SISSIES to Return to Puffin Cultural Forum

Directed by Drama Desk Award winner Karen Carpenter (Love, Loss, and What I Wore), Bette Davis Ain't for Sissies returns to the Puffin Cultural Forum with an electrifying solo performance written and performed by Jessica Sherr on Friday, June 26th at 7:00 pm (Claws, Blue Bloods).

Miss Davis is back! And more relevant than ever. The show brings to life the uncompromising story of one of Hollywood's most iconic stars. From headline-making romances with William Wyler and Howard Hughes to her infamous Oscar upset and fearless battles against the male-dominated studio system, Davis' story is one of ambition and defiance.

This newly updated performance also highlights Davis' role as a trailblazer in standing up to the studio system and helping pave the way for stronger protections and rights for artists. On-screen, she portrayed complex, unapologetic women; off-screen, she fought for equal pay, creative control, and longevity in an industry that often denied women all three.

By turns humorous and deeply moving, Bette Davis Ain't for Sissies captures the enduring legacy of a woman who refused to be silenced. Jeremy Lentz, Director of Special Projects at The Puffin Foundation, stated "this show spotlights one of Hollywood's unsung feminists - a woman who championed workers' unions ultimately becoming the first female President of the Screen Actors Guild. Many don't know that Davis defied convention, shattered the glass ceiling and fought for fairness both on and off the screen. Her personal sacrifices reflected the brutal realities of being a woman in Hollywood. This show is particularly relevant in today's world, where the fight for equal pay and reproductive rights continues, Davis remains a symbol of resistance and resilience. After a sold-out run last year, I am excited to announce that the show will be returning to Teaneck's Puffin Cultural Forum for a one night only updated version of the play with a more in-depth focus on Bette's role with worker's and women's rights"

Fasten your seat belts & come along for this bumpy ride as you watch Bette Davis' most defining moments as this tenacious star fights her way to the top of Hollywood! $10 suggested donation and reservations can be made through the Puffin Cultural Forum website at www.puffinculturalforum.org



Theater Fans' Choice Awards
2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats
Best Lighting Design - Top 3
1. Jen Schriever, Michael Arden - The Lost Boys
31.9% of votes
2. Kevin Adams - Chess
14.2% of votes
3. Jack Knowles - Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
6.9% of votes

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