Krewe of Bonne Vivantes

The krewe of Bonne Vivantes presented its 55th Annual Mardi Gras Ball, “Glory Days,” on January 17th, at the Biloxi Community Center. King Scott Weldon and Queen Choyce May Cochran reigned over the festivities.

The tableau began with the introduction of Past King, Jon Wilson and Queen Stephanie Seymour, promenading to “Beauty and the Beast.”

For the evening’s entertainment, a series of six groups of krewe members performed to dance routines, which represented a trip down memory lane.

The first group of dancers, led by Sue Lynn Weldon, represented the Teachers and danced to the music “Hot for Teachers.”

The second group, led by Becky Thompson, dressed in black representing the Goths, performed to the song “Back in Black."

The third group, led by Kelly Allen and joined by her Preps, danced to “Lipstick.”

The fourth group of the evening was directed by Amy Hunt, as she led her “Cheerleaders,” to the music of “Girlfriend.”

The fifth group, led by Deonda Smith and her group of Jocks, danced to, “NFL Theme Song.”

The final group, led by Marsha Bilbo, directed her group of Nerds to the center of the court as they danced to the beat of “Blinded Me with Science.”

Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Robert Hirsh, introduced the krewe officers, Treasurer Carolyn Teal and Secretary Shannon Saucier. Next came the presentation of Bonne Vivantes 2009 Captain, Rene Gara.

The presentation of the six maids and dukes began with Maid Tina Jordan representing the, “Most Likely to Succeed”, entering to the music of “Desperado”. Jordan was escorted by, Duke John Chapman.

The second royal couple consisted of Maid Teresa Mohler and Duke Shannon Calvin Pyle. Representing the “Most Talented” the couple promenaded to the music of “True Colors.”

The third maid of the evening, representing the “Best Dressed” couple, was Maid Molly Rector escorted by her Duke Chad Wade to the music of “Hotel California.”

The fourth Maid Melissa Roberts Lee, representing the “Most School Spirited” promenaded with her husband Duke Joey Lee to the music “Wanted Dead or Alive”.

The fifth maid, Lisa Baldelli represented the “Most Athletic”. Her duke, Dave Donaldson, joined her to the music of “Dust in the Wind,”

The final maid, Dina Toche, represented “Most Intelligent” and was joined by her duke and husband, Harvey Toche, to the beat of “Free Bird.”

The King and Queen for Bonne Vivantes 2009 represented Mr. and Ms. Bonne Vivantes High. Queen Cochran wore a gown of gold beaded lace underlined with ivory silk was designed in a semi strapless style. Demi train flowed from a deep flounce that started from her knees. Rhinestone beaded trim straps and neckline gave her gown a sparkling glow.

King Weldon wore a tunic style costume of silk ivory velvet with accenting designs of matching beaded gold lace. Sequins and rhinestones adorn his outfit.

Their trains were matching of silk ivory velvet with swirling scrolls of different sparkling fabrics to give a uniquely soft accent to the main motifs, a fleur de lis design. Crowns and scepters complemented each other.

Roses were presented to Queen Cochran by her husband Chris. King Weldon presented roses to his wife Sue Lynn, a 5 year member of Bonne Vivantes. Paige’s to the Queen were sisters Morgan Rebecca and Alyssa Grace Sanford, granddaughters of the queen. Paige’s to the King were Drew Saucier, son of Secretary Shannon Saucier and grandson of Treasurer Carolyn Teal and Paige Matthew Lancon, nephew of Captain Rene Gara.

The King and Queen proclaimed a royal toast to their court. The membership requested a final Royal March to “Shook Me All Night.” John Breal served as production manager and provided the tableau music.

The band “Meet the Press” provided the evening’s dance music. Costumes were designed by Angela Polite. Queen and King Costumes were created by Sheila Gray and the court’s costumes by Ruth Steiner.

This concluded the tableau portion of the program. Plans are already in progress for next year’s 56th Bonne Vivantes Ball.