On a night mixed with excitement and anxiety at the Lionel Roberts Stadium, and in front of a standing room only crowd, Karence De Costa was crowned the 2009 Virgin Islands Carnival Queen.

Following the usual opening salute, National and V.I. Anthems, Invocation and explanation of the judges’ criteria, the show got off to an exciting start. The opening production and presentation of the contestants centered on the theme of the theatre, as the contestants represented the movies, Cry Baby, Hairpsray , Footloose and Flashdance. The contestants were accompanied by the Anonymous Dance Group and some exciting male dancers, as each one stepped to the microphone and introduced herself. Contestant #1, Brittany Brin, Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta and Contestant #4, Tamika Joseph all spoke with eloquence and confidence as their respective fans cheered with approval.

The Swim Wear segment, always a crowd pleaser, was next. Each contestant strutted on stage with confidence and poise wearing one piece swimsuits, accessorized to suit their unique styles and personalities, and all sporting shoes supplied by Essentric Shoe Boutique.

The Cultural/Historical Costume segment was just as entertaining. Contestant #1, Brittany Brin, portrayed the Traditional Mocko Jumbie, Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, displayed the 17th Century Sugar Mill, Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta exhibited the famous Conch Shell and Contestant #4, Tamika Joseph, depicted the Flamboyant Flower. The ingenious designs and the performances by the young ladies was indeed a history lesson as the audience was reminded of these aspects of Virgin Islands history that are often overlooked.

The much anticipated Talent segment was the point of the contest that resulted in a change in the entire competition, as Contestant #1, Brittany Brin took ill during a thrilling and energetic dance performance that comprised of ballet, jazz and tap dances. As Brittany fainted and fell to the floor, the audience gasped in disbelief and anxiety. This anxiety continued until the crowd was reassured by the Mistress of Ceremonies, Lillian Moolenaar, that Brittany would be alright, but she would be unable to continue the competition, to the disappointment of her avid supporters and the entire audience.

But the show had to continue, although now reduced to three contestants. Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, performed a triple act by playing the keyboards and saxophone, and singing a jazz selection. Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta, rendered a thrilling vocal performance that brought members of the audience to their feet. She sang a medley of three songs which included a tribute to President Obama. Contestant #4, Tamika Joseph also played the keyboards in her “bubble”, then stepped out and performed an acrobatic, majorette dance routine. The crowd cheered for the contestants, yet there was still some degree of sadness in the air for the unfortunate young lady.

The three remaining contestants were given some extra time to compose themselves, as they were obviously affected by the news that Contestant #1 would not be returning to the stage. The young ladies had developed a close friendship during the weeks leading to the pageant.

The Evening Wear segment did not disappoint the audience, as each contestant displayed her poise and elegance in her custom made gown. Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, wore a gold couture gown, Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta, chose majestic magenta and Contestant #3, Tamika Joseph loved a sea blue dress. These evening gowns were sparkling and shining with crystals and beads, complimented with trains and ruffles, as the young ladies gracefully floated across the stage. They were all actually quite stunning.

The final segment of the pageant, the Question and Answer was next and this segment always has most of the audience keenly anticipating the responses of the contestants. Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, was first on stage, therefore she drew the envelope selecting the question that each young lady would answer, the others being sequestered back stage. This question centered on the topic of crime and homicides in the Virgin Islands and a program that each young lady would create to assist in decreasing this situation. The contestants kept their composer and answered with confidence while outlining their programs.

By the end of the contest, although saddened by the unfortunate incident, the audience was more than ready for the announcement of the winners of the various categories and the overall winner. 2008 Queen Lesley Anne Gumbs gave her final walk and farewell speech, and then it was time for the announcement of the winners. Ms Congeniality and Best Evening Wear was awarded to Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte, and Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta was awarded Most Cooperative, Best Cultural/Historical Costume, Best Talent and Ms Intellect. There were two categories that were judged prior to this night, namely the Cocktail Reception and the Judges’ Interview. Then it was time for the big announcement. The 2009 Virgin Islands Carnival Queen was Contestant #3, Karence DeCosta, a very popular decision, as she had won most of the major categories. Her supporters immediately rushed to the front of the stage. All of the contestants must be commended as they all performed admirably.

The 2009 Queen Selection Show was over, and the newly crowned royalty would now reign over the remaining carnival events, accompanied by her royal court.

Musical entertainment for the event was provided by Cool Session Brass, who kept the crowd quite spirited, with Lillian Moolenaar as the Mistress of Ceremonies and a spectacular special dance selection by Cubie George and Porter Anderson.

Due to a rule which eliminates the first runner-up position when there are only three competitors, a first runner-up was not named the night of the competition; however, after a comprehensive review of the rules, it was determined that Contestant #2, Lynette Boschulte would be awarded the position of 1st Runner up.