Saturday, February 16, 2019

Louisiana Sugarcane Festival Building — New Iberia

The Mystic Krewe of Iberians celebrated its 72nd bal masque Saturday night at The Louisiana Sugarcane Festival Building. This year’s celebration featured the fun and festive theme of “Vegas.” Las Vegas is known for its gambling, shopping, fine dining, entertainment and nightlife, but for now, it is known for a Mardi Gras celebration — Iberian style.

Seriously, what can go wrong when you cross sin city and Mardi Gras?

The theme explored the entertaining world of Las Vegas from the famed Bellagio and Aria Resorts to the most popular Cirque du Soleil shows, the fascinating world of magic and the most popular residency concert shows to ever hit Las Vegas. The theme brought excitement, entertainment and great music to the spectators in attendance.

Wess Robison, captain of the Krewe of Iberians and Parker Templeton, co-captain of the Krewe of Iberians, followed the instructions of the previous captains — Dr. Mike Alavarez and Mr. Preston Broussard — to “keep it fun.”

Reigning over the ball were His Majesty, The 72nd King of The Mystic Krewe of Iberians, Mr. Tim Leblanc, representing Mister Bellagio and Her Majesty, the 72nd Queen of the Mystic Krewe of Iberians, Mrs. Jamie Peet Halphen, representing Aria.

Joining their Royal Majesties were the Maids and Dukes of the Mystic Krewe of Iberians, who represented some favorite sights, sounds and entertainment from Las Vegas.

From the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, representing Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson ONE, was Mrs. Krysta Feldman, escorted by her husband, Dr. Christopher Feldman. From The Mirage Las Vegas, representing Cirque du Solei’s The Beatles LOVE, was Mrs. Paige Jordan, escorted by her husband, Mr. Paul Jordan. From the MGM Grand, representing the magical world of David Copperfield was Mrs. Paige Woodring, escorted by her husband, Mr. Douglas Woodring. From the Rio Las Vegas, representing the magical illusions of Penn & Teller was Mrs. Heather Jordan, escorted by her husband, Mr. Jonathan Jordan. From Caesars Palace, representing the one and only Celine Dion was Mrs. Erin Haik, escorted by her husband, Mr. Eric Haik. From the Wynn, representing the country legend Garth Brooks is Mrs. Annie Decuir, escorted by her husband, Mr. Chris Decuir.

A highlight of the pageant was the formal presenting of New Iberia’s debutantes to society. They are seniors in high school and daughters of active members in the Krewe. They are by tradition presented in long white dresses.

The Debutantes for 2019, escorted by their fathers, presented to Their Majesties were Emma Theresa Beauillieu, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Beaullieu IV; Brooklyn Elise Breaux, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Breaux; Elise Lucille Brown, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Brown; Katharine Evelyn Crochet, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Chad Crochet; Katherine Elizabeth Russell, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kelly Russell; Grace Ellen Simon, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Rene Paul Simon.

In keeping with tradition, last year’s royalty was presented to the krewe’s membership for their final time. The night’s live entertainment included the incredible band Time Machine out of Dallas, Texas. Catering and bar was provided by Beau Soliel Café & Catering and the costumes were designed and hand-made by Ms. Patricia Sigue.

The Mystic Krewe of Iberians was established in 1947 and celebrated their 72nd ball. The Krewe is New Iberia’s oldest and largest Krewe with 324 couple members. Those interested in membership should email captain@kreweofiberians.com.