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NEWORLEANS

“ The hardest part of the Awards is not getting the big giant costumes onto the stage, it’s getting the drunk people off of it. But, coming in at 230 lbs. and 6’9” in heels and hair, I am more equipped, effective and sweatier than a defensive linebacker when it comes to tackling my ‘stage-hogging’ opponents.” —Emcee Varla Jean Merman

With categories earning a $500 prize and the Best in Show winner netting $1,000, the Bourbon Street Awards is truly an opportunity for your day-to-day cross-dresser to step up his or her game. Or a chance for dilettantes to have a bit of fun and test the waters outside their closets. Mostly, it’s a great opportunity for anyone to see a rare and wonderful costume performance piece in a neighborhood that excels in such things. Registration takes place on Lundi Gras, Feb. 12, at the Good Friends Bar on Dauphine Street, between noon and 4 p.m., and on Fat Tuesday

beginning at 10 a.m. at the Rawhide on Burgundy Street.The contest begins at noon on Fat Tuesday at the corner of Dauphine and St. Ann streets. (The stage faces Bourbon Street, so at least there’s that.) So if you’re feeling your inner diva trying to break loose, step right up. And if you’re not interested in being a contestant but would love to see this wonderful and unique Carnival revue, come on down to the back of the Quarter Fat Tuesday. You won’t regret catching this one- of-a-kind show. It’s a longtime Carnival morning must-see for locals and visitors of every persuasion.

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