The Current Court: Gustavo Rodriguez Cruz (Mr. Florida M.E. 2021/22); Velvet LeNore (Miss Florida F.I. at Large, 2021/22); Joanna James (Miss Florida F.I. Supreme 2021/22), and Melony Munro (Miss Florida F.I. 2021/22).
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The Social event of the season presents the 50th Anniversary of the Miss Florida F.I. Pageantry System on Sunday and Monday, October 2nd and 3rd in the beautiful “Crystal Ballroom” at The Venue/The Manor Fort Lauderdale (2345 Wilton Drive). On Sunday October 2 it will be three pageants in one night with Miss Florida F.I. At Large, Mr. Florida M.E. and Miss Florida F.I. Supreme pageants. Then on Monday October 3rd is The Miss Florida F.I. pageant. The pageantry system attracts some of the top named female impersonators, and Movie, TV and Fashion stars from across the USofA and beyond.

In the past Miss Florida F.I. had celebrity judges including KC and Sunshine Band, Boy George, and Sylvester.

Many pageant systems have started since, they have followed the lead of Miss Florida F.I., but Miss Florida F.I. is till recognized as one of the top 5 national pageants.

Former winners have gone onto great careers in TV,  movies, and coveted lead roles in shows and cabarets including Las Vegas and P-Town, and have traveled not only across the state of Florida but around the world.

The host hotel is, once again, the Gallery One Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel (2670 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale).

(L) Gustavo Rodriguez Cruz (Mr. Florida M.E. 2021/22); (R) Velvet LeNore (Miss Florida F.I. at Large, 2021/22 / PHOTO: JR Davis

The owners who plan to uphold the vision of original owners Keith Landon and Rene Rodriguez include:

Alyson Thomas, a seasoned professional in the art form of female impersonation herself for over 40 years, brings professionalism, style, stability, and experience to the pageant.  She is also known throughout the country as a leading promoter and supporter to many who have gone on to become national title holders, and a coach to newcomers.  Well respected by everyone in the art form, a hands on owner with an eye for detail, coupled with personality, hospitality and vision.

Scott Holland, whose knowledge and experience in the Florida market includes: media and editorial experience, producer of events, judge to many pageantry systems including nationals and prelims to nationals, a pageant coordinator, public relations, professionalism, and a love for entertainment that cannot be touched.

Gary Santis, who has been involved with the pageant for many years, is instrumental in keeping the history of the system alive.  He brings decades of hands-on working knowledge of the system, and the experience that’s makes Miss Florida F.I. rich in history, and memories.  Gary continues to create amazing sets, outrageous productions, state of the art sound and lighting, encompassing a show and a night of entertainment not to be missed. Gary Santis is also the owner of Gary Santis events whose and has produced some of the biggest gay events south Florida has seen.

PHOTO: JR Davis

The Miss Florida F.I. pageantry system will take place on Sunday and Monday, October 2 and 3 at the beautiful “The Venue” in Fort Lauderdale with doors opening each night at 7pm and pageant starting at 8pm sharp. To purchase tickets go to MissFloridaFIPageant.com. For sponsorship or more information call Scott at 954-478-4587.

PHOTO: JR Davis