The first book to explore the Kids' history, legacy, and influence
This is a book about the Kids in the Hall ? the legendary Canadian sketch comedy troupe formed in Toronto in 1984, and best known for the innovative, hilarious, zeitgeist-capturing sketch show The Kids in the Hall ? told by the people who were there, namely the Kids themselves. John Semley's thoroughly researched book is rich with interviews with Dave Foley, Mark McKinney, Bruce McCulloch, Kevin McDonald, and Scott Thompson, as well as Lorne Michaels and comedians speaking to the Kids' legacy: Janeane Garafolo, Tim Heidecker, Nathan Fielder, and others. It also turns a critic's eye on that legacy, making a strong case for the massive influence the Kids have exerted, both on alternative comedy and pop culture more broadly.
The Kids in the Hall were like a band: a group of weirdoes brought together, united by a common sensibility. And, much like a band, their careers after the troupe have often been defined by middling success. They're always better when they're together. This is a book about friendship, collaboration, and comedy. It's also a book about clashing egos, rivalries, and one-upmanship. This is the story about the things that draw us together?comedians, artists, performers, people?and the things that drive us apart. This is a book about those head-crushing, cross-dressing, inimitable Kids in the Hall.
