First Nations costume: Little Spy Boy 1details

Little Spy Boy Suit
Mongram Hunters
Designed and made by Stacy Banks
Worn by Tyrone Banks
1993

The “Little Spy Boy” is selected by the Chief, and his role is to scout for approaching rival tribes. Like his adult counterpart, he sings, dances, and exchanges signals with other Little Spy Boys.

In Action

The Indians, who parade on foot, act out a ritual of song and dance. Drawing from a repertoire of established songs supplemented by new compositions, the Indians combine music and dance in a way that resonates with African culture. Indeed, “masking Indian” is a practice found throughout the African diaspora in the New World. Masked Indians have appeared in Trinidad since the mid-1800s and in Haiti and Brazil some time after that.

In addition to mardi Gras, the Indians wear their costumes and parade on St. Joseph’s Day (March 19) and the following Sunday, known as Super Sunday. Some tribes also perform for special events, such as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.