Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ move is to strip Orlando’s performing arts center of its liquor license in retaliation for hosting a holiday-themed drag show in December.
A 27-page complaint filed by the state Department of Business and Professional Regulation alleged that the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation “knowingly welcomed” attendees under the age of 18 to watch “A Drag Queen of Christmas” against Florida law.
The move comes as DeSantis, a right-wing Republican, continues to fight against drag performers and smear members of the LGBTQ community with allegations of child abuse during his run for the White House.
The civil complaint acknowledged that a sign at the venue, called The Plaza Live, warned adults to bring minors, but said it was “not visible”.
The sign implicitly directs parents to make their own decisions — which DeSantis hails as a “fundamental right” in parenting.
The Dec. 28 event was the 8th annual holiday drag show. Photos from the venue show at least two children being brought into the audience. The complaint also contains images of the stage; one is shown on the screen with a finger pointing to a holiday wreath. Others show shirtless men and drag queens wearing horns.
The Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Songs performed included “Screwdolph the Red-Nippled Reindeer,” which, according to the complaint, featured the following lyrics: “Then one damp Christmas Eve, Santa came to say, ‘Screwdolph with your bright nipples won’t guide my sleigh. tonight?’”
A representative of the Florida department of business regulation told The Orlando Sentinel that the venue can continue to sell alcohol while the complaint is processed.
The complaint alleges six civil counts of violating Florida statutes related to obscene content placed where minors may see it. No criminal charges have been filed.