The self-described “Jewish mother you never asked for,” comedy drag rising star Alvah Klempt will have you overcome with amusement.
Thotyssey: Alvah, hello! Thanks for chatting with us today!
Alvah Kelmpt: Hello Thotyssey! Thank you–this is such a treat for me!
Same! You were part of Nicky O’s “Rendezvous” anniversary show this past weekend at Cassette in Ridgewood. How did that go?
Yes, we just celebrated the first anniversary of “Rendezvous”–Ridgewood’s very first weekly drag show. Nicky O and Jo Disco have built such a special and beautiful space over the past year, and it was an honor to celebrate with them. That show and community have been such a huge part of my drag journey, and my journey of learning to spell the word rendezvous.
Lol, I just went on that journey myself! Glancing at your IG, you have an array of great pics and a large following… but I believe you’re fairly new to the New York drag scene.
I am fairly new! I moved to the city last summer, and made my NYC debut in July. I’ve always had an enthusiastic relationship with crossdressing, but it wasn’t until quarantine in 2020 that I really started developing a character and trying to get good at drag. I’ve always been drawn to a more kitschy, nostalgic aesthetic, and I feel very connected to my Jewish upbringing — so that’s where the character and essence of Alvah really came from.
My first few outings in drag were for Pride shows in my home state of Maine, but it wasn’t until I moved to New York that I started performing regularly and taking drag more seriously. Lately, I’ve gotten to bring my drag to a lot of Jewish community events, which is always really special. There is something about being in a room full of Jewish women of a certain age that just makes me feel at home.
How might you fully describe the Alvah experience today, as far as your looks and numbers go?
That is a great question. Anyone coming to one of my shows should expect to see comedy, camp, and hopefully a therapist. I’m especially proud of my self-produced mixes – ask me how I fit a CupcakKe quote about vaginal hygiene into “Mother Knows Best” from Tangled.
As far as my look goes, I try to always be channeling Jewish Mother – which, for me, can take a lot of different forms. It might be an ugly sweater one day and a 1950s housewife moment the next. Shoutout to all the moms out there serving versatility!
Do you have a certain kinship with other Jewish queens in NYC or beyond?
There is absolutely a Jewish drag sisterhood. Queens like Hanukah Lewinsky (here in New York) and Laura Menorah (who I’ve worked with in Denver) are incredibly inspiring to me. And I’ve also had the pleasure of performing with some amazing Jewish kings in the city — Julius Nicoy, Retro TransPROSEon and Benedick, to name a few. Believe the propaganda–we really are running the world.
Have you had any all-time favorite or remarkable drag moments, either while performing or otherwise?
A huge moment for me was speaking to an 8th grade student group at a synagogue on the Upper West Side. I love bringing drag into spaces that might not normally engage with it—especially ones connected to Judaism—and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of students. They were all so kind, and genuinely curious about what I do. My former Hebrew school classmates and I could never. My favorite question came from a young woman who asked if the hourglass silhouette is a requirement for drag queens… and out of respect for my sisters, I won’t tell you what I said.
Lol! You’ve got some interesting gigs coming up, starting on May 30th at Brooklyn club The House! “Sinners Shabbat” is a circus / variety show featuring an all Jewish cast. What’s that gonna be like?
I am so glad you asked. Sinners’ Shabbat is one of my all-time favorite events, and I feel so fortunate to be part of it. As many Jews will tell you, our faith can sometimes feel a bit strict and even exclusionary – so Sinners’ Shabbat makes space for folks who connect to Judaism in less traditional ways. It’s advertised as a show for the queer and alternative community, but really it’s for anyone looking to engage with Jewish identity on their own terms. We honor the values and traditions of Shabbat, and we also do shibari bondage and eat challah off of people’s naked bodies.
The event has recently gotten some attention online from Jews who see it as offensive, and I think that proves exactly why spaces like this are necessary. It’s important for all of us to feel like we can engage with our identity in a meaningful way – especially those of us who like tying each other up.
In general, it must be daunting to balance and navigate through Jewish and queer identities… especially during these dire times, where often those two communities find themselves at odds. Is that an everyday challenge for you, or have you just found a way to reconcile everything?
If anyone out there has found a way to reconcile everything, please email me immediately. It’s definitely challenging — showing up for your community means something different to everyone, and there’s always more you can do. What I know is that my drag was born out of my own queer Jewish experience, and I’d like to think it’s enough just to create something that other queer Jews can see themselves in, too. I try not to think of myself as a spokesperson for any community I’m part of — just one person trying to channel my identity and experience in a way that feels authentic.
Well said! Looking ahead to Pride Month, on June 5th you’ll be at “Freakshow,” Siobhan the Third’s monthly at All Night Skate!
The theme for June is H.A.G.S.; still not sure why Siobhan thought of me for this one. She puts on an amazing show, and I’m so excited to be featured! It will also be my All Night Skate debut, which is major for me. My partner is only slightly disappointed it’s not an actual skating rink.
Looking ahead to June 11th, you’re rejoining Nicky O and a fantastic large cast for “Night of 1000 Mileys” at 3 Dollar Bill! This will also be amazing! Do you have a favorite Miley Era?
Yes, it’s going to be so much fun! I’ve always thought her Dead Petz era didn’t get enough recognition. “BB Talk” is a triumph.
Also, I see that you make some pretty great show flyers for yourself and other gals… how did that become a thing, and are you open to commissions for that?
Aw, thank you for mentioning my little side hustle! I actually went to school for marketing, so doing flyers and photo edits for drag performers has been a fun way for me to put that to use. My commissions are wide open! If you’re reading this, please hire me – otherwise the student debt was for nothing. And of course, I’d never pass up a chance to plug my sticker collection — perfect for the gay Jew in your life!
Finally: what’s your favorite, essential item in your drag bag, cosmetic or otherwise?
My life alert! You never know.
Thanks, Alvah!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for Alvah Klempt’s upcoming appearances, and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and her website.
Thotyssey 