Spearheaded by new owners Michael and John Barrett, this revamped drag dining experience is poised to captivate audiences with dazzling performances, immersive entertainment, and a sparkling new cast — even featuring Miami's own Mhi'ya Iman Le'Paige, a former contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race.
The opportunity for Aquaplex to move into Fort Lauderdale first emerged when Michael, a longtime fast-food restaurant franchisee and retiree, and his husband eventually seized an opportunity to purchase the original Aquaplex in Key West.
Two years later, when they heard that Lips was looking for a buyer, their passion for drag eventually led them to save the venue and purchase the Fort Lauderdale staple, making it a new addition to the Aquaplex family.
"Lips was a success for nearly 17 years," Michael explains. "We're thrilled to build on that legacy with a modern Key West-inspired décor, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and an elevated food and drink menu. We've also brought in an incredible cast to create something truly special."
Keep a Legacy Alive
While trying to elevate the venue just slightly more to fit the new Aquaplex image, the new proprietors were committed to keeping pieces of Lips's legacy in its foundation and retaining most of the Lips drag cast. With the new additions settling into the drag family, like Le'Paige, the camaraderie is already evident."It feels great to be at Aquaplex," Le'Paige tells New Times. "I just did a rehearsal with the cast, and it went so smoothly. This is an all-new experience for me, and it's amazing to have a space where my fans can come and see me perform regularly. Expect the flips, tricks, and all the crazy stunts I'm known for. Trust me, you're going to love the show we put on."
The owners of the reimagined venue agree. They promise everyone from longtime Lips fans to new attendees a fresh slate of immersive show concepts, blending drag artistry with top-tier production values.
"The Lips cast and team are amazing," Michael adds. "They've built such a strong following, and now we're one big happy Aquaplex family. The cast is busy preparing new solo and group numbers, rehearsing, and creating costumes to make each performance unforgettable."
For Le'Paige, who gained fame on season 16 of Drag Race, this new chapter feels like a natural extension of her career. As a Haitian-American, she's also excited that she's been able to represent her community both nationally and now with a home base in her native South Florida.
"Drag Race helped me to become more confident in myself and to stop doubting my abilities," she reflects. "Representing both my heritage and community feels great because I have always positioned myself as a leader in the community or in anything I do. It's incredible to now have a platform like Aquaplex where I can continue to grow and represent both my heritage and the LGBTQ+ community. Performing here is already so much fun."
Supporting the Community
Aquaplex's mission is very much in line with Le'Paige's, focusing not just on dazzling performances but also on giving back to the community.The venue is already hosting a series of charitable events to mark its grand reintroduction, including the Art of Drag event on November 14, which benefitted the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, and a Drag Bingo night on November 20, which supported the Heart Gallery of Broward. A Sunday Brunch Toy Drive on December 1 will cap off the series, benefiting the Children's Diagnostic and Treatment Center.
Those interested can catch Le'Paige and the rest of the Aquaplex cast at weekly shows, including Tuesday night performances called Tango Tuesdays, which launches on November 26, and Saturday brunches.
"It's going to be high-energy, full of dancing, flipping, and pure joy," the drag queen promises. "Everyone has pitched in with ideas and supported each other. It feels like a real family here, and that's what will keep me around."
With its reimagined design, expanded programming, and powerhouse cast, Aquaplex is poised to become the crown jewel of Fort Lauderdale's nightlife.
"We're incredibly grateful to now be part of this region," he says. "We welcome all locals and visitors to share in our love for drag, enjoy great food and drinks, and become immersed in an unforgettable experience."
Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale. 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-567-0987; fladragshow.com.
