Rex in the Classroom Archive

In this area you will find archives of Rex in the Classroom materials from past years. For each year you will be able to view an image of the Parade Bulletin, download Parade notes, and view teaching plans and student work.

2011: This Sceptred Isle The theme for the 2011 Rex Procession was "This Sceptred Isle." In the Second Act of William Shakespeare's great play, Richard II, the Duke of Lancaster speaks the words from which the theme of the 2011 Procession was taken: "This royal throne of Kings, this sceptred isle... this England." These proud and patriotic words describe the Duke's feelings for the Island Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, and Wales. This theme afforded many opportunities for students to learn more about the history and culture of the British Isles. Kings and Queens, poets and playwrights, and legends and myths abounded in the 2011 Rex Procession.

2010: Fables of Fire and Flame The theme for the 2010 Rex Procession was "Fables of Fire and Flame." Fire, one of the four classical elements, has occupied a special place in human experience throughout history. Each culture has developed a mythology to explain its origins and its power to create and destroy. From these rich stories came images and symbols which inspired the 2010 Rex Procession, the first ever with a fire theme. This theme afforded many opportunities for students to learn about the myths and legends inspired by fire in distant times and faraway lands and cultures.

2009: Spirits of Spring The 2009 Rex Procession illustrated the universal appeal of Springtime, with beautiful images of rebirth and renewal. From Persephone to Poseidon to Eostre, ancient cultures created legends, myths, and festivals celebrating the arrival of Spring after the harsh winter. Flowers, butterflies, and bears awakening from hibernation—all are portrayed in this tribute to the renewing joys of Spring. For New Orleans, Rex's Capital City, these symbols of new beginnings have special meaning as the city continues its process of rebuilding and renewal following the floods which followed Hurricane Katrina.

2008: Royal Rivers On every continent, and throughout history, rivers have played a central role in the growth of civilization. Ancient peoples gave them magical names, and ascribed to them god-like powers. Even the mythical underworld needed a river, the River Styx. Rivers became the earliest highways and routes for commerce, and opened the unknown world to exploration.

2007: The Lunar Realm As long as mankind has looked into the night sky the moon has been a source of wonder and inspiration to poets, writers, artists, and storytellers. Throughout the ages each culture has developed its own interesting legends and myths to tell the story of the moon's origins and to explain its changing appearance. "The Lunar Realm" explores that rich world of stories, words, and images, and provides wonderful opportunities for students and teachers to do likewise.

2006: Beaux Arts and Letters The 2006 Rex Parade honored the artistic heritage and legacy of the city of New Orleans. Individual floats honored artists and writers who lived, worked, and created their art in the Crescent City. The art of Mardi Gras was featured, and student work included float designs based on the 2006 theme. See these projects in the 2006 Archive

2005: Visions of Age-Old Cathay The Rex Procession of 2005 explored "Visions of Age-Old Cathay," with floats depicting the wonders of Ancient China. Floats bore creations drawn from Chinese mythology, history, architecture, and religion, and student work included PowerPoint presentations, drawings, float designs, and pamphlets. Click here to visit the 2005 Archive.

2004: The Winged World The Theme for the 2004 Rex Procession was "The Winged World," and featured stories and images of mythological winged figures from many ancient civilizations. From the Phoenix to Pegasus to Quetzalcoatl, this was a beautiful parade, and inspired wonderful work in many classrooms. Click here to visit "The Winged World" Archive.