GALVESTON — Behind the pirate hats, parade dances and Mardi Gras performances, members of the Galveston-based Whodah Krewe say their organization is really about building community.
The nonprofit performance group gathered Sunday at Challenger 7 Memorial Park for its annual group photos, bringing together members dressed in colorful pirate-inspired outfits ahead of another busy year of parades, volunteer work and community events.
While many people recognize the krewe from Mardi Gras celebrations, members say their work continues long after parade season ends.
“Whodah Krewe is a performance group that is based out of Galveston and we perform for Mardi Gras and then we also do all sorts of community service work,” said Amy Prentice.
Founded three years ago, the organization was created by a group of members who wanted to bring more New Orleans-style performing crews to Galveston. Since then, the krewe has expanded its presence across the county through school visits, fundraising efforts, volunteer projects and public events.
The group also partners with several local organizations, including the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network and outreach programs serving the Galveston area.
Members say one of the biggest surprises after joining the krewe is how quickly strangers become family.
“Never would have thought about it,” said member Pollywog G. O’Malley. “I would have run screaming. It’s been the best thing I ever did.”
For many members, joining the krewe meant stepping outside of their comfort zone, whether that meant learning choreography, performing in front of crowds or simply meeting new people.
Amanda Beasley said newcomers often worry they are too shy or inexperienced to participate, but the organization focuses more on fun and connection than perfection.
“I would encourage people to join even if they are worried about, ‘Oh, I’m not a good dancer,’ or, ‘Oh, I’m shy,’” Beasley said. “Once you get out into the crowd and do a parade, the energy is just infectious.”
That excitement, members say, is especially visible when interacting with children during community events.
“You put on the pirate outfit, you go out in the community and you’re like ‘argh,’ and everyone just lights up,” said Diana Johnson. “So you see the kids light up. So you can’t help but get excited and enjoy being able to do that.”
The krewe is now preparing for several upcoming appearances, including Galveston’s Fourth of July parade, while also working to recruit new members.
Monica Mejia said the organization is currently holding a membership drive, with an event planned May 30 at the Naked Iguana in Galveston.
“We do a lot of social media, so we’d love for people to follow us on Facebook,” Mejia said. “If you join us, then your membership fees go to all of these wonderful things that we do.”
As the group posed for photos Sunday afternoon, members said the annual tradition serves as more than just a chance to update pictures for the season ahead. It is also a reminder of how much the organization has grown in just a few short years — not only in numbers, but in friendships, confidence and community impact.
