Newman Pre-K Visits Rex Den

Newman’s Pre-K classes enjoyed a preview of Mardi Gras and a lesson in history as they took a field trip to Rex Den. Located in a nondescript warehouse on Claiborne Avenue, Rex Den houses the floats, costumes, offices, and changing rooms for the venerable krewe. Through an hour-long guided tour, the Pre-K students learned about the process of making floats, the history of Mardi Gras, and the work that goes into preparing for and carrying out the yearly Carnival parade.

 

As the student s entered the warehouse, they were greeted by an armada of floats. As the students learned, several floats are permanent fixtures that appear in each year’s parade, such as the King of Carnival, the Streetcar Named Desire, and the Boeuf Gras. But each year the organization creates a score of floats based on a theme. This year’s theme is “Royal Gardens” and the floats bore symbolic sculptures inspire by the worlds grand gardens. The children were enthralled by the characters – a giant Chinese lion, magical salamander, fierce griffin, Roman wolf, and terrible ogre – that helmed each float.

 

The tour also included a wealth of information on the history of Mardi Gras, the introduction of throwing beads (which started in 1921), the costumes that the Rex members wear, the construction of the floats, and much more. The group also visited the King’s dressing room, which included virtual museum of Rex artifacts. For students and parents alike, the tour offered rare insight into all of the effort and artistry it takes to present a memorable parade.  

Click here to view an album and slideshow from the event.