Miss Hedonism II crowned

Nagra Plunkett, Hospitality Jamaica Writer

A 43 YEAR-old housewife from Montana, United States, took home the title of Miss Hedonism II 2005, in a competition aimed at greater guest interaction and knowledge assessment of the resort.

Contestants in the Miss Hedonism II Pageant pose with the new queen Ruth Anderson (seated) of Montana, in the United States. The pageant was part of the resort's 24th anniversary celebrations.

The 15-year-old pageant was one of the highlights of the hotel's 24th anniversary celebrations which culminated last weekend.

The event saw 10 contestants representing various elements of the hedonistic property. For her victory, Ruth Anderson was given a crown and awarded a seven-night complimentary stay at the resort.

"For the last 10 days we have been partying non-stop and I should point out that our Halloween Anniversary Week is our busiest with 60 per cent of the occupancy being repeat guests," said General Manager Richard Bourke, who promised an even bigger festivity for their silver anniversary in 2006.

"Every year we go one better in terms of activities. This year we've been challenged by the weather and had to make some modifications along the way, but overall everyone is happy."

In keeping with its ancient Egyptian theme, the main dining area was transformed into a palace draped with blue and gold accents. Guests and staff, who donned outfits of Pharaohs, noblemen and women, as well as belly dancers, feasted on spreads of meat, bread and fruits.

There was a special presentation to more than 80 repeat guests, who had each visited the resort at least 15 times. This was followed by an Egyptian dance by two members of the entertainment crew, which served as the opening act for the Miss Hedonism II Pageant.

But the most anticipated segment was the main show that featured the legendary Byron Lee & The Dragonaires. Singer Jomo and his three female singers led the Dragonaires into an energetic set that saw guests losing their inhibitions to the pulsating beats.

The performance incorporated renditions of songs from soca, calypso, reggae and gospel. Band member Asley was the group's minister as she led a 'revival' with popular hits from gospel singer Marvia Providence.

But it was tunes like Get the Cat done on Latin rhythms, Soca Train and I Command You that was the clearly the crowd favourites.