Pulling back the curtain at the pageant

by MIKE CHAIKEN

CTFashionMag.com

Before the contestants of a pageant step up on stage before the judges and an audience, there is preparation that goes on behind the scenes.

In the auditorium, behind closed door, they rehearse the choreography of their opening number and practice the patterns of walking past judges in their evening gowns and swimsuits.

Backstage, heating irons heat up. Hair spray creates a cloud. Makeup palletes are cracked open for that “perfect face.” Some contestants even grab a quick catnap after a long day.

Here was the scene at the recent Miss Rookie and Miss Southington pageants of the Miss Connecticut Scholarship Organization, which was held in Southington, Conn. on Jan. 28.

PHOTOS by MIKE CHAIKEN