IN a dazzling affair, organised by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), 22 year-old Johnnel Smith copped the Miss Jamaica Festival Queen title for the parish of Manchester; the third time for the parish in the history of the pageant. Taking second place was 25 year-old, Miss Kingston & St Andrew, Tyesha Turner followed by Trelawny’s, Chloe Trowers, 22.

In a spectacular opening segment, the thirteen parish queens paraded in costumes representing their respective parishes heralded by a costumed pirate and a cadre of dancers from the Wolmer’s Dance Troupe portraying the Revels of Port Royal, the creative concept that inspired the night’s proceedings.

On a beautifully decorated set reminiscent of Fort Charles, emceess Paula-Ann Porter and Sherando Ferril called the ‘Mistresses of the Revels’ ably introduced the contestants to a fully-packed Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.

A talent parade followed, where all thirteen finalists gave impressive performances some self-penned, for an appreciative audience. Outstanding performances also were deliverd by opera duo, Ana and Samantha Strachan, violinists Trio Bello, Cameal and Aisha Davis, who donned pirate themed outfits, along with the masterful Fab 5 band.

In the eveningwear section, the contestants elegantly showcased colourful creations by designers Uzuri International, Moreen Clarke and Latoya Doulatt, collecting a rose as they entered the stage.

When the top five was were announced Smith, Turner, Trowers along with St Catherine’s Kenisha Allen and Hanover’s Angelita McDonald remained for the onstage interview.

During the awards segment, Smith copped the sectional prizes for Most Culturally Aware and Most Involved in Her Community, while the Best Performer award went to McDonald, who evoked rounds of laughter with her dramatic presentation entitled Manners.

Also copping sectional prizes were Tyesha Turner and Kenisha Allen, who tied for most poised; Sharna-Gay Brown, Miss Westmoreland who was voted most congenial and popular vote winner Amekia Ramsay, Miss Portland collected a trophy and $25,000 cash courtesy of CLARO. Tasha Gae Wilson, Miss St Thomas collected $10,000 for the best cultural presentation.

The queen’s prize package included the JCDC Trophy, a cash award of $500,000 court, a Blackberry Cellphone, accommodation and hair care for one year and a bedroom set. Turner and Trowers took home $150,000 and $100,000 respectively among other prizes.

Smith will serve throughout the next year as a cultural ambassador for Jamaica.