"Almost Infamous" (2008), directed by Ken Bielenberg, is a lively and candid documentary that explores the journey of The Kinsey Sicks, an unconventional and politically charged a cappella drag quartet. The members describe themselves as "America’s only self-supporting, multi-person, out, queer, drag-a-pella, political comedy revue," and their unique blend of humor, satire, and showmanship has made them a staple in the world of drag entertainment. With their sold-out performances, the Kinsey Sicks have captivated audiences with songs like “Rent a Homo,” “I Want to Be a Republican,” and “AZT,” a parody of the Jackson 5’s hit.
While the documentary showcases their irreverent comedy and biting social commentary, it also delves deeper into the personal and professional lives of the performers as they prepare for a potential residency at the Las Vegas Hilton. The Kinsey Sicks' path to Vegas stardom is far from ordinary, and "Almost Infamous" provides an intimate look at their preparation process for what could be the biggest gamble of their careers. Through a mix of interviews, live performances, and glimpses into their personal lives, the documentary captures the struggles of the group as they navigate the challenges of maintaining their signature irreverent edge while also managing the demands of a larger commercial audience. From dealing with technical difficulties like condescending sound engineers and smelly costumes to wrestling with the pressure of performing on a regular basis, the group faces numerous hurdles. Along the way, they must confront the question: Can they maintain their artistic integrity while striving for success in a city built on glitz and glamour? The film also explores the emotional toll of their work, capturing moments of exhaustion and doubt. The Kinsey Sicks must grapple with whether to soften their show to appeal to mainstream audiences or remain true to their roots. The documentary sheds light on their internal struggles, showing that despite their outrageous onstage personas, the group is a tight-knit ensemble of individuals who care deeply about their craft and each other. “It’s important we aren’t reduced to the level of clowns,” says Ben Schatz, one of the founding members. "Almost Infamous" reveals not only the humorous and high-energy side of the Kinsey Sicks but also the personal and emotional complexities that come with being part of a successful queer drag ensemble.
The Kinsey Sicks' story began in 1993, when a group of friends attended a Bette Midler concert in San Francisco, dressed as the Andrews Sisters. They expected to blend in among the sea of drag queens but found themselves to be the only ones - except for Bette herself. After the concert, they were approached by a woman who asked them to perform at her upcoming event. Though their initial response was “We don’t sing,” they quickly realized that all of them had musical backgrounds, leading to an impromptu performance. This moment marked the birth of the Kinsey Sicks. In July 1994, the group had their first public performance on a street corner in San Francisco’s Castro District. Their performance drew a large and enthusiastic crowd, marking the beginning of their rise to fame. Over the years, the Kinsey Sicks have produced and performed full-length theatrical productions across the country, taking their shows to prestigious venues like the Herbst Theatre in San Francisco, the Nordstrom Recital Hall in Seattle, and the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale, among others. Their early shows, including "Sicks Appeal", "Sicks-Tease", and "The Balled Sopranos", premiered at the New Conservatory Theatre Center in San Francisco. Later productions, such as "I Wanna Be a Republican", "Oy Vey in a Manger", and "Electile Dysfunction", have toured internationally, drawing a diverse and dedicated fanbase from all walks of life. With their sharp satire, original songs, and politically charged humor, the Kinsey Sicks have cultivated a loyal following of fans who appreciate their bold and unapologetic approach to entertainment.
The Kinsey Sicks’ journey took a significant turn when they decided to take their talents to the Las Vegas Strip. In 2006, they secured an extended run at the Las Vegas Hilton with their show "DRAGAPELLA!". This production, which was the first of its kind - an all-live singing drag revue - was a major milestone in their career, earning critical acclaim and drawing large audiences. The success of this run was captured in the 2008 documentary "Almost Infamous", which chronicles the behind-the-scenes drama of their preparations for Las Vegas, a city known more for its flashy, commercially driven shows than for its political satire or progressive messages. The documentary not only showcases the glitz and glam of Vegas but also the emotional and physical toll that the Kinsey Sicks face as they pursue their dreams. The members of the group - Ben Schatz (Rachel), Irwin Keller (Winnie), Maurice Kelly (Trixie), and Jerry Freedman (who tragically passed away in 2004 due to a crystal meth addiction) - each bring their unique perspectives to the documentary. Schatz, a former HIV/AIDS policy advisor to President Bill Clinton, is particularly vocal about the challenges of maintaining the integrity of their political messages while navigating the pressures of mainstream entertainment. The group’s commitment to pushing boundaries is evident throughout the film. As they rehearse and perform, they deal with the logistical hurdles of touring, such as technical issues and exhausted performers, while also confronting the question of whether they can maintain their authenticity in a commercialized environment. This personal and professional conflict gives "Almost Infamous" a depth that goes beyond the typical documentary about a performance troupe.
The Kinsey Sicks’ impact on the world of drag and comedy is undeniable. Over the course of their career, they have performed in over 40 U.S. states, as well as internationally in countries like Canada, Mexico, and Australia. Their music, which includes both original songs and parodies, ranges from humorous and lighthearted to deeply political, addressing issues such as LGBTQ rights, politics, and social justice. Their drag-a-pella performances have earned them a devoted following, and their work continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate their unique combination of artistry, humor, and social commentary. The group's name, a playful nod to the Kinsey Scale of sexual orientation, reflects their commitment to celebrating queer identities and challenging societal norms. Their performances, often a mix of political commentary and bawdy humor, are a celebration of both the art of drag and the power of satire to address important social issues.
As of today, the Kinsey Sicks continue to perform around the world, delighting audiences with their a cappella harmonies, outrageous costumes, and sharp wit. From their early days as a group of friends with a shared love of music to their current status as one of the most beloved drag acts in the world, the Kinsey Sicks have come a long way. Their documentary, "Almost Infamous", captures both the joy and the struggle of pursuing a dream in an industry that often values spectacle over substance. Yet, despite the challenges they face, the Kinsey Sicks remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of drag, music, and comedy, and their legacy is one of courage, creativity, and a commitment to speaking truth to power through the power of performance.
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