The decision to cancel a performance by a self-styled pantomime dame and LGBTQ+ campaigner at Lowestoft library has sparked a row, with opposition councillors describing it as "pure cowardice".
Green members at Suffolk County Council have criticised the Conservative administration for halting the show by Mama G.
The performer - a former contestant on Britain's Got Talent - was due to appear at the venue, as well as a string of other Suffolk libraries, throughout this month.
But the Tory council scrapped the shows, citing the risk of protests that have been staged at similar events.
Conservative councillors have also questioned whether the events were appropriate for its libraries.
Philip Faircloth-Mutton, a Tory councillor and cabinet member for equality, said concerns had been raised about the performances “crossing the line between a traditional pantomime dame and more controversial gender identity advocacy”.
He said an assessment identified potential “risk of associated violence”.
He added: “In addition to safety concerns, there is a clear question over whether publicly owned buildings are the correct place for such a performance intended for young children.
“On this matter, the administration of Suffolk County Council is very clear that this is not appropriate."
So-called Drag Queen Story Hours, in which male performers in drag read stories to children, have prompted controversy - and protests - in the past, with critics saying they are inappropriate for public libraries.
Mama G, who claims to be a pantomime dame rather than a drag queen, has been performing at libraries in Suffolk for the last seven years.
The performer said the intention was to give “people of all ages the tools to celebrate the person they know themselves to be” and introduces "these characters and themes in an age-appropriate and gentle way”.
The entertainer added: “The presence of a pantomime dame does not cause disruption; protesters do.
"If we begin excluding performers based on what might be perceived by a small group of individuals, we risk failing in our duty to support diversity, the arts, and freedom of expression.”
Andrew Stringer, a Green councillor and leader of the opposition, described the decision as “absolute cowardice”.
“I frankly do not recognise my council”, he said. “What is wrong with people?”
“I thought one of the key identifying factors of Britain and Suffolk was tolerance and inclusivity.”
Mr Stringer invited Mama G to perform at John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, which he is a director of, and even offered to hire out the centre.
Meanwhile, the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich, and the Seagull Theatre in Lowestoft, will also host the artist.
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