News Summary
New Orleans’ Children’s Carnival Club celebrated its 100th bal masque, themed ‘Once Upon A Time,’ at the Roosevelt New Orleans. The event featured royal presentations, dazzling performances, and a heartfelt tribute to the oldest known living monarch. With a spirit of generosity, the evening celebrated children’s heritage in a whimsical atmosphere. Guests enjoyed enchanting dance and music, leaving with unforgettable memories as the club looks forward to another century of magical celebrations.
New Orleans Celebrates A Century of Kids’ Carnival Fun!
This past Sunday, the city of New Orleans transformed into a whimsical wonderland as the Children’s Carnival Club celebrated its amazing 100th bal masque at the elegant Roosevelt New Orleans! This grand occasion marked a century of joy, laughter, and celebration of children’s heritage within the fascinating world of New Orleans Carnival.
A Royal Theme: “Once Upon A Time”
Themed “Once Upon A Time,” the festivities presented a fairy-tale atmosphere as the new king and queen took their royal positions. Mr. Connor Fredrick Langston, hailing from Southlake, Texas, was crowned king, while the enchanting Miss Amelie Marie Sharp from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, graced the event as queen. Their presence truly added a spark of magic to the night!
Meet the Adorable Court
As tradition dictates, the event saw the presentation of seven lovely maids who were escorted by dashing dukes, showcasing the energy and spirit of New Orleans’ youth. The maids included:
- Amelia Ann Alvarez and Emery Grace Alvarez, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Alvarez.
- Elizabeth Abigail Childress, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Penn Childress.
- Jules Marguerite Donaldson from Denham Springs.
- Mary Claire Hodnette, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Christopher Michael Hodnette.
- Caroline Best LaCour, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark LaCour.
- Elizabeth Ramsey Goldman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson Briscoe Goldman.
The charming dukes who escorted these delightful maids injected their enthusiasm into the festivities, making the entire event a joyous celebration.
Special Roles and Dazzling Performances
Opening the festivities, Captain James Hollis Holliday got everyone in the mood for a fun celebration. Pages to the monarchs included an adorable group of young ones bringing even more excitement to the atmosphere. Notably, the event showcased an impressive ballet performance directed by Richard Rholdon, ballet master at the Maria and Joseph Giacobbe School of Dance, captivating attendees with grace and beauty.
A Heartfelt Tribute
A particularly touching moment occurred during the event when the oldest known living monarch, Mrs. Ralph Magnus Onstad, Queen Florence Elizabeth O’Connor of 1940, was honored. Such acknowledgments underline the rich history and heritage embedded within each festivity.
Generous Spirit of Giving
As part of the royal tradition, Mr. Charles F. Childress Jr. presented the traditional royal gift to St. Michael’s Special School, highlighting the spirit of generosity and community service that is a hallmark of these celebrations. The connection between joy and giving provides a delightful reminder of the importance of kindness, especially during joyous occasions.
Let the Dancing Begin!
As the evening unwound, general dancing took over, allowing attendees to let their hair down and celebrate with vibrant partners. The fabulous music provided by The Robert Maxwell Orchestra filled the grand ballroom, making everyone want to join in the fun.
Celebrating 100 Years of Tradition
Chaired by Dr. W. Kenneth Mann Jr. and supported by a dedicated committee, this momentous event wouldn’t have been possible without the contributions and enthusiasm poured into the celebration by everyone involved, including the floor committee chaired by Dr. David C. DeGenova and Mr. Mark A. Bickham.
A Night to Remember!
As the Children’s Carnival Club kicks off another hundred years of lavish balls and magical celebrations, the 100th bal masque left attendees with unforgettable memories, smiles, and a little bit of fairy-tale wonder. Here’s to many more decades of celebrating the spirit of fun and community in New Orleans!
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Additional Resources
- My New Orleans: One Book, One New Orleans
- New Orleans: The Ultimate Mardi Gras Guide
- The Advocate: Nell Nolan on Children’s Carnival Ball
- Wikipedia: New Orleans Carnival
- NOLA.com: St. Bernard Children’s Mardi Gras Krewes
