Join legendary film maker and activist David Weissman at his SCENE residency as he presents The Cockettes, his documentary charting the rise and and fall of San Francisco’s legendary theatrical troupe of hippies and drag queens, 1969 – 1972.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s and early 1970s San Francisco, "The Cockettes" is a documentary that delves into the life and legacy of a flamboyant, avant-garde performance troupe that epitomized the spirit of the counterculture movement. Founded by the enigmatic Hibiscus, The Cockettes were known for their extravagant, gender-bending performances that fused theater, drag, and glittery psychedelia, creating a phenomenon that challenged conventional norms of sexuality and art.
The film explores the group's rise to underground fame, highlighting their unorthodox productions, including outrageous musicals and provocative revues that were both a celebration and a parody of mainstream culture. Through interviews with surviving members, rare archival footage, and insights from cultural commentators, "The Cockettes" paints a vivid picture of a community that lived and breathed freedom, creativity, and radical self-expression.
As the troupe's influence grew, their chaotic brilliance caught the attention of the wider world, leading to a notorious and ultimately disastrous New York debut. Despite the setbacks, the legacy of The Cockettes endured, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. "The Cockettes" is a tribute to their fearless creativity, highlighting the joy, turmoil, and enduring impact of a group that dared to dream in technicolor.
This screening will feature and pre-film introduction and post-film Q&A with the film's co-director David Weissman and a post Q&A DJ set by disco party starters Love Party and trippy visuals by Bridget Coderc (STUDIO720p).
£5 Ticket + Booking Fee
Booking fee donated by ticket partner Skiddle to Manchester Pride Charity.
Profits from SCENE ticket sales donated to Manchester Pride Charity which supports, empowers and enriches LGBTQ+ community groups.
MORE information
PLEASE NOTE: This event is presented in a pop-up cinema in The Social and will require you to wear headphones throughout the screening and Q&A.
The Cockettes Tea Dance Party will be hosted in The Social outside of the cinema space after the screening. Hand in your headphones and dance freely!
Co-Directors: Bill Weber and David Weissman
Running time: 99 minutes
Country of origin: USA
Cast: The Cockettes, Sylvester, John Waters, Hibiscus, Holly Woodlawn, Sylvia Miles
Year: 2001
Language: English
Producer: David Weissman
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