Key West’s venerable drag entertainment venue, AquaPlex (APKW), is closed. According to management the business was evicted from its prime location on Duval St. in the heart of the island’s party district.

The news, first reported by Greater Wilton Manors, broke Friday, July 3.

Management informed employees the business had been evicted writing, “I’m sorry to tell you this but we have been evicted from the Aqua (711) Location. I have just been informed shortly ago and after tears and confusion, broke news to some staff and now I'm telling you! We are closing Aquas doors this Monday. It breaks my heart but I tried everything I could to help us avoid this but it's beyond me.”

Public filings also show the company borrowed $760,000 using the location's liquor license as collateral. The filing does not state whether the loan was related to the eviction.

The venue operated over the holiday weekend and shut its doors Monday. However, their website and Facebook page do not acknowledge the closure, and as of Tuesday night you could still book tickets for upcoming shows.

The Birdcage Cabaret continues to operate.

Financial Challenges

APKW was a part of Pride Holdings Group (PHG) which was created to be an LGBTQ-focused hospitality business. It has acquired several LGBTQ entertainment venues. But it has not been smooth sailing.

Public court records show the company is involved in litigation with the former owner of Lips Chicago. The company's stock fell sharply in mid-April and has traded at roughly five cents per share since.

In mid-May, AquaPlex in Oakland Park received a utility shutoff notice from the city and a three-day notice to pay $31,490.71 in back rent or leave. The location remains open.

PHG also owns Johnsons in Wilton Manors.