Natchitoches’ Krewe of Excellence brought a most welcome bit of Mardi Gras lagniappe to the summer’s heat as they held their 2024-2025 Royal Court Coronation Saturday, June 29 at NSU’s Magale Recital Hall. The fun started with a social and receiving line. Visiting royalty from the various Krewes of the Northwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association lent the event an even more colorful and glittering air as they joined in the festivities. 

The night’s theme was “The Night of the Egyptians”.  Each new member of the court was introduced to the audience and was presented with their sash and crowned by their predecessor. The evening culminated with the crowning of the 2024-2025 King and Queen of the Krewe of Excellence, Nikeo Collins and Jacqueline Lawson. Serving as Dule of Superiority is John Thompson, Jr. Barbara Thompson is the Duchess of Superiority. Albert Middleton is the Duke of Perfection while Judith Hayes-Walters is the Duchess of Perfection. The Egyptian costumes and staging set a high bar for creativity that will be tough to match.

After the introductions and crowning, the visiting royalty lined up to congratulate the new King, Queen, and court members after which everyone continued the celebration in the Magale Hall Lobby.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal is donating the event photography. The Royal Court and members are welcome to any they wish as are the visiting Krewe members. The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes the Krewe of Excellence, and each of our area’s Mardi Gras Krewes, a safe and enjoyable Mardi Gras season.

PHOTO GALLERY: 2024-6-29 Krewe of Excellence Coronation – Kevin Shannahan (smugmug.com)