Alexander Hedges Steinberg, professionally known as Sasha Velour, is a dynamic and versatile creative individual whose talents extend across multiple disciplines, including drag queen, performer, visual artist, and hostess. Notably, he has achieved great success as the Season 9 winner of the prestigious RuPaul's Drag Race, a testament to his exceptional skill and artistry.
Born to parents who drew inspiration from her Russian heritage, Sasha was named after Alexandra Kollontai, a trailblazing Russian feminist leader. However, Steinberg has primarily gone by the nickname "Sasha", a common Russian term used for either Alexander or Alexandra, as he was informed at a young age that his given name was, in fact, typically associated with girls.
Sasha Velour's surname, an intriguing anomaly, has its roots in a textile known for its affordability and versatility, serving as a more budget-friendly alternative to the luxurious and opulent velvet. This unexpected origin story takes on a profound significance in the context of the world of drag, where creativity and self-expression are redefined and recontextualized in a way that is both accessible and inclusive.
Sasha Velour, a renowned figure in the world of drag, has a surname that not only reflects her artistic persona but also serves as a powerful metaphor for the art form itself. The surname Velour, derived from the fabric often used as a more affordable alternative to velvet, speaks to the very essence of drag, where artistry and self-expression are reimagined and reinterpreted in a manner that is both affordable and accessible.
This poignant metaphor underscores the democratizing power of drag, which enables individuals to express themselves authentically, without the constraints of traditional notions of beauty, identity, or social status. The surname Velour, in this context, becomes a testament to the transformative potential of drag, which has the power to elevate and empower individuals, allowing them to transcend societal norms and expectations.
As Sasha Velour continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of drag, her surname remains a powerful reminder of the art form's ability to reimagine and reinterpret the world around us, making it more inclusive, more accessible, and more beautiful for all.
