AHOSKIE – It’s no wonder that the Queen of Hearts Pageant is held only every other year as it takes 24 months to stop laughing.

The extremely popular event, hosted by the Woman’s Division of the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce, makes its biennial appearance this Saturday night (Feb. 24) at the Gallery Theatre. Those attending the event are warned that laughter may cause extreme pain in every funny bone.

Set for an 8 p.m. start, the event tentatively features nine “lovely” contestants in this all-male beauty pageant. They will compete in talent, evening gown and swimsuit categories, all in an effort to capture the prestigious Queen of Hearts crown.

Scheduled to participate are Brent “Brittany Sparkle” Barnes, Will “Willimina Missy” Blanchard, Terry “Bulamay Clampet” Hairston (aka “Happy”), Curly “Jennifer Hopez” Morris, Brent “Buxom Brenda” Pierce, Bo “Bodacious GI Jane” Pittman, Taylor “Tasha Thorny” Rose, Chris “Precious Christina” Slachta and Tommy “Huirlexin D’Ayre” Spence.

Advance tickets ($6 for adults and $5 for children) are available now at the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce, located at 310 Catherine Creek Road, or from any member of the Woman’s Division. Admission at the door is $7 for adults and $6 for children.

The event will include a raffle for several prizes.

As is tradition, Hertford County Magistrate Doug Brinkley will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. It’s worth the price of admission just to witness the contestants interact with Brinkley.

Special entertainment will be provided by Laura Joyner.