Overview
Hana Beshie is the professional stage name of AJ Asi, a Filipino drag performer recognized for her participation in the second season of the reality television series Drag Race Philippines. Based in Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, in the Mindanao region, she has established herself as an active figure in the local and national drag community since her emergence in 2023. Her career is characterized by a dual professional identity, combining the performative arts of drag with the structural discipline of architecture, a combination that informs her aesthetic choices and stage presence.
Drag Race Philippines Season 2
Hana Beshie's national profile expanded significantly when she competed on Drag Race Philippines season 2. The show, a franchise adaptation of the global Drag Race format, serves as a primary platform for Filipino drag queens to showcase their skills in fashion design, lip-syncing, comedy, and acting. Her participation in the second season placed her among a competitive cohort of performers vying for the title of "Philippine Queen of Drag." The season highlighted the growing diversity of talent within the Philippine drag scene, extending beyond the traditional strongholds of Metro Manila to include performers from Mindanao, such as Hana Beshie from Cagayan de Oro.
Professional Background
Beyond the runway and the stage, Hana Beshie is an architect. This professional background provides a distinct perspective to her drag artistry, often influencing the construction and structural integrity of her costumes and stage sets. The discipline of architecture requires an understanding of form, function, and spatial dynamics, elements that translate effectively into the visual storytelling inherent in drag performance. Her work in Cagayan de Oro reflects the city's status as a major urban center in Mindanao, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the region's entertainment industry. As an active performer since 2023, she continues to build her portfolio, leveraging her architectural expertise to create innovative drag looks that stand out in the competitive landscape of Philippine drag.
Drag Race Philippines Career
Hana Beshie, the stage name of Filipino drag performer AJ Asi, gained national recognition through her participation in the second season of Drag Race Philippines. As a contestant on the reality competition series, Beshie showcased her performance skills, fashion design, and lip-sync abilities against a roster of emerging and established drag artists from across the archipelago. Her run on the show highlighted the growing visibility of the Philippine drag community and the professionalization of the art form within the local entertainment industry.
Alongside the main episodes, Beshie’s journey was further documented in the companion series Untucked. This behind-the-scenes look provided viewers with additional context regarding the contestants' dynamics, preparation processes, and emotional experiences during the competition. The dual exposure on both the main stage and the backstage footage contributed to a more comprehensive public understanding of the pressures and camaraderie inherent in the Drag Race format.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Drag Race Philippines (Season 2) | Contestant | Main series |
| 2023 | Drag Race Philippines: Untucked (Season 2) | Contestant | Companion series |
Notable Performances and Achievements
Hana Beshie, the stage name of Filipino performer AJ Asi, gained significant recognition through her participation in the second season of Drag Race Philippines. Her run on the competition was marked by strategic performances and strong audience connection, culminating in notable achievements that highlighted her versatility as a drag artist. The season provided a platform for her to showcase her comedic timing, acting abilities, and stage presence in front of a national audience and a panel of judges.
Snatch Game Impersonation
One of the most memorable moments of Hana Beshie’s competition was her performance in the iconic Snatch Game challenge. She chose to impersonate Jessica Soho, a prominent Filipino journalist and television host. This choice required a deep understanding of Soho’s distinct interviewing style, her sharp wit, and her recognizable mannerisms. Hana Beshie’s portrayal captured the essence of Soho’s on-screen persona, delivering lines and reactions that resonated with the judges and viewers familiar with the journalist’s career. The performance demonstrated her ability to embody a non-drag, real-life figure with accuracy and humor, a skill that is often critical in winning the Snatch Game round. Her interpretation was praised for its authenticity and comedic value, standing out among other contestants’ choices.
Miss Congeniality Victory
In addition to her individual challenges, Hana Beshie earned the title of Miss Congeniality for the season. This award is typically voted on by the contestants themselves, reflecting not only the winner’s talent but also their interpersonal dynamics, kindness, and overall contribution to the sisterhood of the season. Winning Miss Congeniality indicated that AJ Asi was well-liked by her peers, suggesting a combination of professionalism, generosity, and charm behind the scenes. This achievement complements her on-stage performances, painting a fuller picture of her presence in the competition. It underscores her ability to balance competitive drive with collaborative spirit, a trait that often leaves a lasting impression on both judges and fans. The Miss Congeniality title remains a significant accolade in her drag career, highlighting her popularity and respect within the Drag Race Philippines community.
See also
- Revolution in the Philippines: The Question of an Alliance between Islam and Communism
- Timeline of Philippine history
- Andrés Bonifacio
- Historiography of the Philippines: Methods, Sources and Traditions
- Ati-Atihan Festival: History, Significance and Cultural Controversies