Geismar resident lands spot on Krewe of Cleopatra royal court

     NEW ORLEANS – Mardi Gras season is officially on its way and kicking off the season is the 43rd annual Rendezvous Ball Masque from the ladies of the Krewe of Cleopatra in New Orleans.

     This year Ascension Parish resident Christy Ritchie will be making her appearance at the ball as one of the members of the Jewels of the Nile, the court for Queen Cleopatra XLIII.

     Ritchie was first introduced to the Krewe three years ago, making this the first time she has been on court. She described her reaction to hearing she was selected as a member of the royal court as being an honor and ecstatic.

      “It was an amazing experience that I knew I was bout to embark on,” Ritchie said. “Most people have it on their bucket list, but after you ride it once it's kind of like an addiction almost, the thrill of it is so awesome.”

     The 2016 theme is “Rocks the Big Easy,” with music representing the sounds of New Orleans. Each court member's costume will depict a different type of music from New Orleans culture, chosen by the Krewe for each court member based on their personalities.

     Krewe members and guests will enjoy and evening of dining and dancing by music from The Chee-Weez on Jan. 15 at the Grand Ball Room of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside Hotel. The Captain, Tuttie Delores Kepner who was also the founding member of the Krewe, will present Queen Cleopatra and the Jewels of the Nile to the audience.

     The parade will be held on Jan. 29 on the uptown parade route, kicking off the first day of New Orleans festivities.