Bo Dollis, the legendary chief of the Wild Magnolias, was honored on October 11 in a ceremony at the John P. Lyons Recreation Center.
Photo by Reya Hart
Dollis is best known as the pioneer that brought the traditions and practices of the Mardi Gras Indians to the world through his performances and recordings.
The ceremony, which took place in the Lyons Center gymnasium, was held as a tribute to his life and legacy.
Dollis, now confined to a wheelchair, sat proudly at the front on the congregation beside City Council Member Latoya Cantrell, and his wife, Laurita Dollis.
One by one, family members and colleagues stood up to pay their respects and speak on the enormous impact Bo Dollis had on each of their lives.
Big Chiefs Clarence Delcour, Howard Miller, Walter Cook, and Darryl Montana reflected on Dollis’ ability to keep the traditions alive, the incredible improvisational skills he showcased in his music, and the power of his voice.
Photo by Reya Hart
At multiple points throughout the ceremony, the crowd would gather before the stage to sing, drum, and dance. Grandchildren jumped into the air, grasping onto tambourines.
The Queens threw their arms above their heads while their hips moved left to right, each woman dancing her own dance.
The ceremony concluded with a rendition of “Indian Red.”
This time, the crowd gathered a little closer to Dollis’ table than they had before, creating a circle around him.
At first, it seemed like they might overwhelm him, and people began to move back.
But as the song took flight, a smile spread across his face, and he reached out from his chair as if he was gesturing to the crowd to come closer, keep the music going.
Suddenly, someone nearby reached out to him. He took their hands, and to the surprise and delight of everyone around him, he lifted himself out of his wheelchair.
For most of us, there are few moments in life where the healing power of music is that evident.
The Lyons Center ceremony stands as a great tribute to a truly great man.
Photo by Reya Hart
