SHREVEPORT, La. — The Krewe of Centaur celebrated the halfway point to Mardi Gras on Saturday night with its annual Red, White and Royal event at Sam's Town Hotel and Casino, where members welcomed a new royal court while also celebrating America's 250th birthday.
The patriotic-themed celebration brought together Centaur members and representatives from Mardi Gras krewes across the Ark-La-Tex for an evening of fellowship, dinner and entertainment. Guests dressed in red, white and blue enjoyed a silent auction before gathering for the Royal Tableau, where the krewe officially introduced its 35th royal court.
Grace Ann Blake was crowned Queen XXXV, and Jason Blake was crowned King XXXV. The pair will represent the Krewe of Centaur throughout the upcoming Mardi Gras season at parades, balls and community events.
The event also honored the outgoing royal court. Outgoing Queen XXXIV Carlene Mudd said passing the crown to a new court was both emotional and exciting.
"It's a little bittersweet. I'm not going to lie. During the rehearsals this year, everybody got a little choked up. But it's exciting to welcome a new royal court, new excitement and new fun," Mudd said.
Outgoing King XXXIV Jack Bailey said the friendships he formed during his reign and the opportunity to give back to the community made the experience especially rewarding.
"The friendships and getting to serve the community are the best things about this," Bailey said.
With a new king and queen now crowned, the Krewe of Centaur officially begins its journey toward the 2027 Mardi Gras season.