THE MISS WORLD 2011 BEAUTY PAGEANT – WHAT IS IT AGAIN?

by: Jetset Alejandro

I have conjured images of a pageant with distinction and class before watching a downloaded copy of the Miss World 2011 competition. Take note, I did not repeat the words “beauty pageant” because as I went through watching the proceedings, I began to understand that this is no pageant after all. I don’t even understand if it was even a personality contest. True, there were portions showing the candidates competing in sports, beach beauty, modelling and beauty with a purpose portions, but during the final night, there was nary a competition among the chosen finalists. The candidates were rated based on the points they have accumulated and thus were rated. From the top 20, the candidates stood up on the stage as they get to see their countries posted and be determined whether they will go to the Top 15 or not.  I find it condescending to ask the girls to come if they get in or not into the Top 15. I find it so grotesquely shameful to do that to the non-qualifiers. The element of surprise and excitement as well as tension was not played out in this particular case.

            What is the basis of calling the Top 7 from the Top 15? I did not see the girls parade in their swimsuit or in evening gowns. And when the Top 7 were called, they recited their mantra on why they should be chosen Miss World 2011. Clearly, Miss Puerto Rico delivered an impassioned answer enough for her to maintain her leader status. But alas, she was upstaged by Miss Venezuela and even Miss Philippines. There was not even a tinge of excitement in the announcement of winners. Had the two last remaining contestants stood in front of the audience while waiting for the winner to be announced done, this would have generated a lot of excitement and awe. But alas, the show was simply a dud.

            With the proceedings lacking in excitement, the show’s hosts were correspondingly uninspired. There was one that I appreciated though, it was the closing song – One World One Dream. It was a touching rendition by the candidates. Miss Peru, Spain, Uganda, Philippines and Puerto Rico were focused singing with all their hearts out. With that song alone, I think, Miss World will able to redeem itself with a better production, better concept and better pageant mechanics.


Check out the review of the pageant from BBC News Magazine at this link http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-15692592.