Central Florida singer signs on with SeaWorld

Patrick Gibson will perform at park's Bands, Brews & BBQ event

ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida country singer Patrick Gibson saw immediate backlash through social media after announcing he would perform at SeaWorld Orlando.

In a picture posted to his Facebook fan page, Gibson told his fans he supports "all that [SeaWorld does]" and invited his fans to come to the concert and support the park.

Gibson will perform during the Orlando theme park's "Bands, Brews & BBQ" event. Nine other acts previously canceled their appearances at the event, including Willie Nelson, Barenaked Ladies, Cheap Trick, Trace Adkins and Martina McBride.

Each band cited concerns from the controversial documentary "Blackfish" as the reason for dropping out of the event.

Following Gibson's post, "Blackfish" supporters flooded the singer's Facebook page, criticizing his decision.

"I hope you educate yourself more before performing there," wrote Teresa Wagner. "It's hard to imagine that you would intentionally support cruelty."

However, Gibson's fans countered the criticism, thanking the singer for his "courage."

"Thanks for taking a stand for Sea World," wrote Barb Nefer.

"Good for you," wrote Terri Sullivan. "Stand behind your decision to play at Sea World! Ignore this negativity from others."


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