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It saddens me to see
how few people throw coins, or even know about this cultural treasure
With Painted Face
Bring Plenty Of Change
I
bring plenty of change to Mardi Gras. I hope more people will join
me every year as awareness grows. |
| The
Flambeaux performers are one of the favorites of locals and
tourists alike, yet fewer and fewer people know the history of these
time honored yet unsung heroes. Such as the fact that they are
supposed to bring change.
I especially enjoy
attending parades that include Flambeaux for mere pocket
change. The Flambeaux will allow you to become part of the
parade. They dance jump and twirl their poles of light with a skill
rivaling any majorette with a baton
The Flambeaux is
one of the oldest traditions of Mardi Gras. The very first Mardi
Gras Krewe, Comus was lit by the flambeaux in 1857.
Occasionally you will see flambeaux using railroad flares,
recognizable by their red glow. They normally carry kerosene
containers mounted on sticks. I know a few of these guys,
and they really put on quite a show. They dance, jump in the air,
and do all manner of gyrations. Remember these people are walking
and carrying a heavy pole. Yet they tirelessly and with great
enthusiasm continue to entertain us with this time honored Mardi
Gras tradition. I view them as the most enthusiastic participants of
the carnival season. Our local flambeaux hero Paul makes
sandwiches at Jimmy's Grocery store, but during Mardi Gras he
becomes The Prince of fire and Lord of the dance downriver style. The
Flambeaux performers don't get the recognition they deserve. yet
they perform with great skill and enthusiasm every year safeguarding
a valuable cultural practice. Please help me and others preserve
this wonderful cultural treasure. Bring change and a little more
appreciation this Mardi Gras.
L
Pearl
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