National Costume Competition: Axed!!!!

**bonner** Mon Sep 05, 2011 3:53 am

Some significant changes have been taking place during the 60th Miss Universe pageant, when it comes to the usual pre-events. The National Costume competition, which has been slowly fading during the past editions, will not take place this year. It all started in 2006, when an impromptu competition took place during the pre-taping of the delegates’ introductions and the winner was Miss Japan.

In 2007, the contestants paraded their costumes at a plaza in Mexico City; however, no winner was awarded a prize. In 2009, a competition took place with all beauties showcasing their costumes. No winner was announced during this competition, nor in the telecast. Some outlets published Miss Panama had won this award, but never got an official recognition from the MUO.

In 2010, there was not a costume show, rather than a parade held at the lobby of the Mandalay Bay Resort with local photographers. The winner of the Best Costume award was chosen by members o Club Universe by online votes.

We get information that the TV audience will get to see a segment with the national costumes (like those in 1998, 2000, 2003-2005). But no competition will be held.

The traditional swimsuit tableau (the official swimsuit photograph with all contestants) has been eliminated as well, as reported. Unless there are changes, don’t expect to see the annual swimsuit poster which was a Miss Universe tradition, except in 2004.

In the meantime, make sure to log in to www.missuniverse.com on September 8th for the 2011 Presentation Show, to feature all 89 contestants in swimsuits and gowns at 7:30 pm (EST)/8:30 pm local Sao Paulo time/1:30 am Central European Time.