Questions for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant

• When and where is the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant?

The Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2008 at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center in Redondo Beach, CA.  Redondo Beach is just about 10 miles from Los Angeles and about 12 miles from Hollywood, CA.  All performances will be held at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. 

• How can I purchase tickets to the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant?

Tickets go on sale June 30, 2008 at 11.59p.m. PST

• How much are tickets to the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant?

Tickets are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door.  You can also purchase VIP tickets for $45.00 dollars in advance.  VIP tickets are very limited and may not be sold at the door.  Please call 310.926.2316 for more information on purchasing VIP Tickets

• What are the logistics [Hotel and Transportation] for out of town guests?

For guests and delegates flying into Los Angeles, CA, LAX is the airport closest to the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant activities. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the world’s busiest origin and destination (O & D) airport serving the Los Angeles area.  There is a complimentary shuttle from the airport to the official hotel [Embassy Suites – LAX] for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant.

For out of town guests, you can book your hotel accommodations at the Embassy Suites Los Angeles -International Airport/North.  This is the official hotel for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. Please call the Central Reservations Office at 310-215-1000 and reference the MNI

The “Hotel” is pleased to offer the following, net non-commissionable rates for your group: $99.00 Flat Rate.  This rate is valid till August 6, 2008 and is subject to State and Local taxes, which are currently 14% per room, per night, and is subject to change without notice.

• Is it reserved seating?  

No, seating is first come-first serve.  The only reserved seating will be VIP section.  Although all tickets are the same price, the Redondo Beach Performing Arts ushers will assist in seating all guests. 

• Are there refunds or exchanges for tickets? 

There are no refunds or exchanges.  If you are unable to use your ticket(s) for some reason, we suggest that you find someone to give your tickets.

• Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child? 

Yes.  Every person and child in attendance must have a purchased ticket for admission.  There is no special pricing for children.  However, no children under the age of 4 will be admitted due to the length and activity of the production. 

• Is there a discount available for groups? 

There is a special discount for groups of 10 or more.  Please email tickets@missnigeriainamerica.org for the special rates or call 310.926.2316

• Am I allowed to photograph or videotape the live performance? 

No.  We do not allow cameras of any kind in the Redondo Beach Performing Center.  The flashes from camera, as well as the power/recording lights on video cameras are distracting.  Photos and video recording (DVD) of the show will be made available for purchase after the show.

• Can anyone apply for the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant? What are the criteria to participate?

Any woman of Nigerian descent fulfilling the following criteria can apply to participate in the pageant. The criteria are:

• Must be at least 18 - 25 years of age by August 30, 2008
• Must be in college, college bound or have graduated from college.
• Must be of Nigerian Descent (Either parent or both must be Nigerian).
• Must not be married, never have been married, and never have had a marriage annulled. Must never have given birth to a child, can not be pregnant or be a parent.
• Must be of good health and moral character.
• Must be a naturally born female, and must reside in the United States of America.
• Must agree, that if selected to compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant, they will abide by all the rules and regulations governing that pageant. The 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant would be held in Los Angeles, California from August 27 – August 30, 2008.

• How and where is the application submitted?

• To be considered for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant, you must complete the application form in detail and pay the $25.00 application fee. The deadline to apply for the pageant is JUNE 15, 2008. 
• You must submit the 3 minute video labeled clearly with your name and application number that you receive when you apply for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. Please remember, you can submit your YouTube video via the online application.
• All applications will be reviewed and processed and applicants would go through a scheduled phone interview.
• Final delegates who would compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant will be notified on or before July 6, 2008.

• What should the applicants submit to participate?

Applicants must fill out the application in its entirety, submit 2 photos online and pay the application fee. All applications will be reviewed and processed and if selected, applicants would go through a scheduled phone interview.
You can submit your YOUTUBE LINK via the online application or mail a copy to:

MNIA, Inc.
9107 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 450
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Applications MUST be accompanied by a video and must meet the following requirements:

• LENGTH: MAXIMUM OF THREE MINUTES anything over three minutes will not be considered.
• FORMAT: A DVD or a Mini DV.  Please write your name on your item when you submit. 
• CONTENT: Who are you, and why you should be selected to compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant.  Be Creative!

*The video will be become the property of the Producers and will not be returned to you, whether or not you are selected as a delegate

• Is there any training provided prior to the pageant?

Delegates arrive 4 days prior to the pageant and go through orientation, a photo-shoot with a renowned photographer, training on stage craft, walk, opening dance number, and a taping of the platform session.

• Who provides the clothing and other costumes for the competition?

The contestants bring their own clothing and accessories for the event.

• What does the winner win in the pageant?

• The new MISS NIGERIA IN AMERICA 2008 will be crowned with a custom diamond crown designed by Dina-Inc

• $3,500 US Savings Bond courtesy of MNIA, Inc.

• Casting opportunities and professional representation by the MNIA, Inc.

• Access to various Nigerian events including movie premieres and screenings, shows and launch parties.

• Who sponsors the pageant?

MNIA, Inc. is a non-profit organization that was incorporated in California.  As such, we rely heavily on grants and sponsorship dollars to fund our programs and to produce the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. T

• Do I need to take a modeling/grooming course?

No. All required pageant activities take place on pageant weekend at the pageant host hotel. All preparation can be learned easily in the comfort of your home. Pre-pageant activities include a 6-week volunteer exercise and 8-weeks of assignments.

• How are the delegates scored?

Scores are based on the following:

• Journals from the 6-week Volunteer work
• 7 Week Assignments
• Traditional Wear
• Talent
• Swimwear
• Evening Gown
  
• Professional Wear
• Question and Answer

[Contestants will be guided in all segments of competition. Orientation will be given during the pageant week.]

For all other inquiries, please contact 310.926.2316 or info@missnigeriainamerica.org