Kreemah Ritz Papers, [1960s]-2005, bulk 1970-1972

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Summary

Creators:
Ritz, Kreemah, 1947-2005
Abstract:
The collection contains flyers, posters, scripts, photographs, newspaper clippings, and audio-visual materials that document the performances of The Cockettes, a San Francisco-based theatrical troupe, and of Sylvester, a singer who performed with The Cockettes and then pursued a solo career.
Extent:
5.0 boxes
Language:
Collection materials are in English .
Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Kreemah Ritz Papers (GLC 79), LGBTQIA Center, San Francisco Public Library.

Background

Scope and content:

The collection contains flyers, posters, scripts, correspondence, photographs, newspaper clippings, and audio-visual materials that document the performances of The Cockettes, a San Francisco-based theatrical troupe, and of Sylvester, a singer who performed with The Cockettes and then pursued a solo career. The papers are particularly strong in the number of Cockettes posters and photographs. The show scripts are also of interest.

Biographical / historical:

Daryl Simmonds was born September 10, 1947 in England. He was known as Kreemah Ritz during his time performing with the San Francisco-based theatrical troupe The Cockettes (1970-1972). He helped write and direct over 20 Cockette shows. Ritz is probably best known for his parody of Richard Nixon in the cult film classic Tricia's Wedding. He also played Bald-Headed Sally who is eaten by a giant lizard in the film Elevator Girls in Bondage. Ritz died October 4, 2004.

Acquisition information:
Donated by Daryl Simmonds (a.k.a. Kreemah Ritz), August 17, 2004. Purchase from Bolerium, 2022: poster "Hibiscus and Angel Jack present Femme Fatale: The Shocking Life of Jayne Champagne" (1976). On December 7, 2022, Johnathan Powk donated a Cockettes poster for the March 1971 "Nocturnal Dream Shows. Palace Theatre (Todd Trexler, artist)."
Arrangement:

The collection is arranged into seven series: Series 1. Correspondence; Series 2. Subject Files; Series 3. Shows; Series 4. Posters and Artwork; Series 5. Publications; Series 6. Audiovidual Materials; and, Series 7. Photographs.

Physical location:
The collection is stored onsite.
Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk hours. Collections that are stored offsite should be requested 48 hours in advance.

Terms of access:

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.

Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Kreemah Ritz Papers (GLC 79), LGBTQIA Center, San Francisco Public Library.

Location of this collection:
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102, US
Contact:
(415) 557-4567
sfhistory@sfpl.org
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