Southern Ute tribal member Ollyvia Watts introduces herself to a large crowd and a panel of judges during the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant held on Wednesday, Aug.14 at the Multi-Purpose Facility. Watts and four other contestants–Malia White Thunder, Theoden Greany, Maleina Carel, and Leandra Litz– presented their public speaking skills, talents, and dance styles in hopes of becoming part of the Southern Ute Royalty. Watts is vying for the Little Miss Southern Ute title. Title winners will be announced during the 64th Annual Southern Ute Tribal Fair Powwow on Friday, Sept. 6.

Maleina Carel translated "The Lord's Prayer" in sign language as part of her talent presentation during the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

Southern Ute tribal member Leandra Litz presents her hand sewn ribbon dresses to the judges during the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant, she explained her traditional design choices and gave a brief history of the dresses ancestral Ute women typically wore. Litz is vying for the role of Jr. Miss Southern Ute.

Malia White Thunder shows judges how to make a breastplate during the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

Theoden Greany is running for the Southern Ute Brave title, and he performed a round dance song as part of the talent portion of the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant.

Olyvia Watts shows off her Fancy Shawl moves to judges during the dance portion of the Southern Ute Royalty Pageant on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum