Organized by the A Gela and Friends Production, the 2011 Queen Marianas pageant will be its first show in the islands.
Pageant director Shawna Lynn Mauricio said the talent show will help raise funds for CNMI Operation Homefront, a non-profit program that sends gift packages to local soldiers serving abroad.
“This year’s pageant is dedicated to the U.S. troops around the world. Our undying gratitude and appreciation goes out to them for their bravery and courage to stand in the frontline to protect our very own freedom. Our love and appreciation goes out to them and their brave families,” Mauricio said.
There are eight contestants: six of whom are from Saipan, one from Tinian and one from Rota.
Event publicity and public relations officer Mike Manglona, said the contestants will “light up the stage with all the pizzazz, glamour and style that only female impersonators could bring to the stage.”
Milkshake, one of the contestants, said she wanted to be a part of the pageant because she wants to know her strengths and weaknesses as a person and she also wouldn’t mind winning the crown.
Manglona said the pageant is divided into two shows: the talent show tomorrow night, and the main show which will be held at 7 p.m. on June 25 at the Fiesta Resort & Spa.
Manglona said the Best in Talent will perform during the main show.
The contestants will compete in the fantasy costumes, lingerie presentation and evening gown categories. The awards to be given are the 2011 Queen Marianas Gay title, first runner-up, princess, Miss Photogenic and other minor awards.
Ticket for the talent show is $20 per person, inclusive of one drink and chasers. Ticket for the main show is $25 inclusive of one drink, but individuals who buy tickets for both events can get it at a discounted price of $40.
Main sponsors for the event are Island Florals & Gifts, Hard Rock Café, Fiesta Resort & Spa and Power 99 FM.
For more information or tickets, call Shawna at 789-8853 or Mike Manglona at 989-9333.
