How to Direct the Closing Number of a Beauty Pageant

The closing number of a beauty pageant begins the final portion of the pageant and prepares the audience for the announcement of the winners. Contestants perform in their formal gowns during this number while judges' scores are tabulated backstage. This portion retains the elegant feel of the formal gown competition and provides a last look at contestants. Here's how to direct the closing number of a beauty pageant.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stage the number to provide equal visual access to all contestants. Because performers are wearing long dresses and high heels, the pace should be unhurried and elegant. Emphasize gliding steps, flowing arm movements and lots of smiles. Give the emcee a chance to highlight each contestant twice.

2. Accent dresses with a simple prop such as a scarf, veil or boa. This extra flowing movement gives an added visual interest after the formal category. Also use color in your selection: make them all one theme color of your beauty pageant or try a colors-of-the-rainbow effect.

3. Awaken the audience with brighter lights during this number and a visually compelling ending. Glittery banners, streamers or balloons add to the ending excitement, making the audience anticipate the announcements to come.

4. Keep the photographer recording this last event in which all contestants are equal. Soon, one of them will be the winner and photos will be staged differently. Record this moment, because it is extra special to the parents of contestants.