Coral Gables Senior High is welcoming back its Mr. Coral Gables pageant, an event in which male upperclassmen are given the opportunity to compete amongst each other in order to win the title of “Mr. Coral Gables”.

Almost every year, Gables clubs, sports teams and elective classes choose a Cavalier to represent them in the competition. Once chosen, the contestants practice together as they work to improve the respective talents and skills they will perform the night of the show. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Gablettes dance team is heavily involved in the organization process and assists the participants in group dance rehearsals.

The night of the pageant, Gables alumni return to their alma mater to judge participants and collectively decide which student is the embodiment of the Gables Cavalier spirit. After a series of dances, sharing a hidden talent with the audience, speeches and more, candidates are awarded the titles of “Fan Favorite”, “Mr. Congeniality”, “Best Talent” and the most highly anticipated, “Mr. Coral Gables.”

On the night of the show, the competition starts with the upperclassmen presenting themselves to the audience with a personal, rehearsed speech. They then continue with the catwalk, which is followed by the performance of their special talent, whether that be dancing, celebrity impersonations, singing or another unique skill that represents their personality. A beach or swimwear portion of the event is also expected to take place.

This year, Gables students who attend the show can expect performances from representatives for the cheerleading team, Student Activities, CavsConnect, Future Business Leaders of America, International Baccalaureate Honor Society and more.

As the night progresses, these competitors are eliminated until there is only one standing. The event begins with around two dozen contestants and continues until ten preselected potential “Mr. Coral Gables” are announced to the audience. Semifinals cut the group in half, leaving only five of the original contestants standing. Finally, by the end of the night, a single winner is crowned.

“I’ve unfortunately never attended a Mr. Coral Gables competition, so I’m excited for what’s to come this year. As a senior, I’m especially looking forward to it because I know most contestants and have grown close to them during the past couple of years,” senior Rebeca Morejon said.

Considering the 2020 school year took place from students’ homes, the return of the Mr. Coral Gables competition is a chance for Gables students to meet together safely for a night of entertainment.