Queen Andrew Scott
Queen Andrew Scott's Story
What's your preferred name?
Queen Andrew Scott
What are your pronouns?
She/Her
Share with us how you identify and how you came to that understanding of yourself.
I’m a queer/gender-fluid person who came to this realization relatively recently. While I still feel more gay man than anything, I don’t identify as only male. Drag has truly helped me explore and discover that part of myself.
Tell us about how your self-expression has helped you grow.
Drag allows me to feel the most powerful and the most vulnerable. I have to tap into the strongest parts of myself to execute looks and performances the way I want to. However, this also brings up shadows and heartache that I have to see myself through and transmute into joy. I am so thankful I have found a creative expression that allows this! I’m much more open and easier in life because of my drag.
Where did you grow up? What was a formative experience you had in childhood that led you to where you are today?
I grew up in Yakima, Washington. I was heavily picked on when I was a child. From Elementary to Middle School. In Middle School, I discovered I had a natural talent for dancing. I started doing it as a defense mechanism because kids would leave me alone once they knew I was a good dancer. I leaned into it heavily, which is why I started at that young age. Little did I know how much it would benefit me and my performance career!
What is a life goal that you are working on or have achieved? How has working towards this goal helped you understand yourself as an individual?
One of the biggest goals I have is to perform in my own solo show on tour. I launched my first ever one-woman show, Rhythm & Flow, last year, and I’m ready to continue that path. I want to be a Drag Queen who paves their own way and doesn’t rely on a TV show to do so. I want to be big & famous on my own accord, and I have already achieved so much in that direction! It has elevated my imagination and work ethic. Going after this goal has really pushed me in many, many ways and I’m thankful for the challenges.
Who is someone who inspired you to be your true self? What was their influence on you?
Jinkx Monsoon was one of the first Drag Queens I had ever met in 2009. I watched her journey from a college student working three jobs to a full Drag Queen Superstar. She always imparted hilarious knowledge in my direction and even mentored me for a while. Jinkx showed me authenticity, and work will achieve any dream you desire. She showed me how tapping into the love you have for yourself will bring beautiful experiences your way, and I apply that knowledge to this day.
What's something that you worry about?
I try not to worry about things. We live in a world of challenges, and a lot of barking. We also live in a beautiful world with a lot of opportunities and support. While I struggle with finances, a schedule, and time, I do my best to focus on what IS working out like everyone else. This usually eases any worry and gives me a stronger sense of confidence.
What gives you hope?
How much people love Drag. Seeing the widespread acceptance (and even resistance) of drag shows me how infectious this craft is. People truly resonate with the art of Drag, and I’m very thankful for it. We inspire people with every show, and I hope to continue entertaining and loving audiences for decades!
If you had a message for your younger self, what would you say?
Start Drag immediately! Don’t wait, and don’t half-ass it. Apply every critique and get into the dance studio. Had I known an art like this could encapsulate all of my talents, I would have begun much younger!
What's a piece of wisdom you've learned that has helped you?
Don’t be realistic. No one ever achieved anything by limiting themselves. Dream your absolute biggest dream and do not let anyone or anything tell you you’re incapable. If you can see it in your head, it’s already yours. You have to be a match, and it’ll come to you.
What is something you wish other people would know or understand?
Drag is a community of people just like any other art form. There is good drag, bad drag, new drag, old drag, sexy drag, drag for Children, etc… It’s like movies or theater shows. Each performer is unique in how they express themselves. Some are good at it, but a lot of them aren’t. However, it’s valid and safe, just like singing, acting or dancing. The more you work and the more you experience it, the more fun it is!