A drag queen performer has revealed she feared for her life after receiving abuse during a children's storytime event with British Sign Language interpretation.
Lady Portia, who performed alongside Miss Dora Belle at the 'Drag Queen Storytime with BSL Interpretation' event, described facing intense hostility that left her genuinely concerned for her safety.
The session was designed to promote literacy whilst making storytime accessible to deaf children and families through BSL interpretation. However, specific details about the nature of the abuse or the event's location have not been disclosed.
Drag Queen Storytime sessions, where performers read children's books to young audiences, have grown in popularity across the UK but increasingly attract protests and controversy. Libraries, community centres and arts organisations typically host the events to foster creativity and promote understanding of diversity.
Supporters argue the sessions provide positive role models and encourage acceptance, whilst critics raise concerns about appropriateness and safeguarding.
Lady Portia's experience highlights the polarised views surrounding these initiatives and the personal threats performers face. The incident raises questions about security measures for such public events and broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ involvement in children's education and entertainment.