ESME Doll takes the Crown: 16-Year-Old drag queen dazzles at school prom

In a moment that lit up the halls of Orchard School Bristol, 16-year-old Alfie Smith - better known by his drag persona ESME Doll - made a bold and statement by attending his school prom in full drag, dressed head-to-toe in a Barbie-inspired ensemble that turned heads and warmed hearts.

Wearing a hot pink gown, a towering blonde beehive wig, and shimmering makeup, Alfie was met with cheers, applause, and admiration from classmates and teachers alike. “I was nervous on the way there,” he admitted, “but the moment I stepped out of the car and heard the cheers, I knew I’d made the right choice. I went in drag for me - because I love this side of myself”.

Alfie’s journey into drag began in primary school, inspired by the documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 and its musical adaptation Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. That story of a teen embracing drag gave Alfie the courage to explore his identity and artistry. “ESME Doll is probably the biggest contributing factor to who I am today,” he said. “She helped me figure out my sexuality, my confidence, and everything that makes you an individual”.

The support from his school community has been unwavering. Teachers not only encouraged his expression but actively celebrated it - one English teacher even attended one of his drag shows and proudly displayed the poster in her classroom. “We need to live in pride, confidence, and empowerment,” Alfie said. “Storm through the hate and rise above”.

His parents were equally involved, helping him design the prom look from sketch to final sparkle. “Even if I only inspired one person that night, that is enough for me,” Alfie shared.