Over the top make-up, fabulous gowns and full pride on display, 11 contestants took part in the first Miss Diva International contest at Solidarity House, Harmony Hall, St Michael.
And with cameras flashing and cellphones capturing the moment, Miss Colombia took the sash and tiara as the first ever Miss Diva International 2014.
It was a close contest as Miss Trinidad and Tobago, the crowd favourite, was right on his heels, placing first runner-up and copping prizes for Best Introduction and Best Swimwear and $1 500 cash.
Miss Diva Universe is a female impersonation gender illusion pageant and delegates were invited to take part in the magical illusion production. This year 11 delegates were accepted and given the opportunity to compete for the title.
The theme for this year was set in Paris and the response to the show, says organisers, was commendable as tickets were sold out two weeks before the date.
The contestants were first introduced to the audience in red, white and blue outfits and began with a stunning open choreography fitting perfectly along with the theme. The 11 represented St Lucia, Mexico, United States, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Jamaica, Barbados, Venezuela, Brazil and St Vincent.
The crowd response to each delegate saw screams and shouts and each had their own cheering section with people waving flags of each country.
The judges had a hard task to judge, talent, swimwear, evening gown and haute couture. All contestants wore the same swimwear. However, they were judged on poise, presence on stage and the body line created.
Talents ranged from lip-syncing, to drama and even ballet dancing. The couture section tested how the divas saw glamour and some elaborate designs graced the stage, while others missed the whole concept.
When the winners were announced the response wasn’t overwhelming for the winner, Miss Colombia, who also took Best Talent for his dance, along with the BGLAD Award and $3 000. Best Haute Couture went to Miss Barbados, Miss Mexico took Punctuality and Congeniality, Best Evening Gown and Producers Award went to Miss USA who was also fourth runner-up. Miss Jamaica was the Peoples Choice and Most Improved went to Miss Canada.
Second runner-up was Miss Venezuela who received $500. Third runner-up was Miss St Lucia.
At the end of the night, one of the organisers said that the pageant, which went off without any mishaps, was lacking in sponsorship as “over 50 letters were sent out and not one responded favourably. It is time that the business community steps up to the plate and understand that the era of discrimination is of the past. Gender Illusion is an art form and has nothing to do with one’s sexual preference.”
He thanked JT Innovations, Sparkles Entertainment, Blades Trophy and Troy Arthur for their favourable sponsorships. (NS/PR)
For more pictures, click here.
