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The 2009 Rex Procession: “Spirits of Spring”. Rex’s theme song “If Ever I Cease to Love” was written by George Leybourne circa 1870 for the musical comedy “Blue Beard”. The song was performed at the first Rex parade in 1872 and is still performed for Rex and his Queen
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The 2009 Rex Procession: “Spirits of Spring” Rex’s theme song “If Ever I Cease to Love” was written by George Leybourne circa 1870 for the musical comedy “Blue Beard”. The song was performed at the first Rex parade in 1872 and is still performed for Rex and his Queen when they arrive at the Grand Ball.
RexKing of CarnivalMonarch of MerrimentFloat 1 This year Rex celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Rex doubloon with a special commemorative doubloon. Rex is Latin for “King.” Rex is locally known as “The king of Carnival.” It’s also the first float that presents the king of the carnival. The float rolls through the streets of New Orleans on Mardi Gras day. Rex had his first appearance on Mardi Gras in 1872. It’s also the largest parade. A Rex Doubloon
His Majesty’s BandwagonFloat 2 • Traditionally every year a band rides on this permanent float to provide music for Rex and forthose who greet him on the parade route.
The King’s JestersFloat 3 • Rex’s jesters dress in Mardi Gras colors purple, green, and gold.
The Boeuf GrasFloat 4 • The float symbolizes the “Great Feast” on the day before lent begins. Lent has been observed since the fourth century. The Catholic Church licensed Carnival “farewell to flesh.” The Church also established the set date for the start of Carnival season on January 6, the feast of the Epiphany and the changing date of Mardi Gras.
Bibliography • http://www.rexorganization.com/Parade/ • "The Rex Parade." 2009. 03 Feb. 2009. • http://www.mardigrasparadeschedule.com/krewes/rex/ • "Krewe Of Rex." 2009. 03 Feb. 2009. • http://www.allposters.com/-sp/Float-in-Rex-Parade-at-Mardi-Gras-New-Orleans-USA-Posters_i1132757_.htm • "Rex." 2009. 03 Feb. 2009.