Becoming Austin Nation: From Crack to PhD, a Drag Queen's Story

BECOMING AUSTIN NATION –
From Crack to PhD: A Drag Queen’s Story
Written and Performed by Austin Nation
 

at Beaches Tropicana
8911 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood
 

**21 and over only. Please note that the venue requires a 2-item (food/drink) minimum purchase per person for this event.** The kitchen at Beaches Tropicana opens at 5pm – and happy hour drink prices are in effect until showtime  Come early!!
 

Previously seen as part of P3 Theatre Company's Cozy Cabaret Series in July 2026, demand from the community for the re-telling of this incredibly challenging and uplifting personal story has brought us to the heart of the Rainbow District in West Hollywood.

Diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at the age of 26, this is the story of a person facing his own mortality until the release of the life extending drug AZT. At 40, Austin beat back his demons and is living his best life as a drag performer and a professor at Cal State Fullerton. It’s a story you don’t want to miss!

Nominated by BROADWAYWORLD LOS ANGELES for Best Cabaret/Concert/Solo Performance and recently performing Off – off-Broadway in NYC, Austin Nation will share his entertaining and humorous autobiographical piece, From Crack to PhD: A Drag Queen’s Story.

***Special Note: There will be a truck onsite that will be offering free HIV testing provided by REACH LA before and after the show!!***

***CONTENT ADVISORY & SENSITIVE SUBJECT MATTER***
This production explores mature and potentially sensitive themes, including HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), substance abuse, addiction, and complex family relationships. Some scenes and dialogue may contain emotionally intense situations and discussions that could be triggering or uncomfortable for certain audience members. These topics are presented with the intention of encouraging awareness, compassion, understanding, and meaningful conversation. Viewer discretion is advised.

Recommended for mature audiences.

**21 and over only. Please note that the venue requires a 2-item (food/drink) minimum purchase per person for this event.** The kitchen at Beaches Tropicana opens at 5pm – and happy hour drink prices are in effect until showtime.!