About Us

 On the evening of March 16, 1981, an idea became a reality. Neil Aldridge convinced Budgie Atkinson and Larry Argo to meet at David’s Lounge to hear his ideas and plans for a new gay Mardi Gras organization. Before the night ended by-laws were discussed, offices of leadership were established, payment of dues were determined and fund raising events were proposed. A most unique carnival club celebrating Mobile Mardi Gras and it’s annual Ball had been established. 

 After launching its first ball in Jan. 1982, Osiris has become unique in incorporating ornately decorated tables and costumes. While associate, and honorary members are assigned tables to decorate, and active members fashion lavish costumes for the tableau along with their matching tables as well. It’s not just a tablecloth with a flower arrangement in the middle, some of these tables can be as costly as some of the costumes.

   With a full active/associate membership of 60, the ball will entertain an audience of around 1200 to 1500 guests who will be welcomed with the notorious tableau. Our tableau lasts between an hour and a half to 2 hours and some members even construct miniature versions of floats to ride in/on; these details are what makes the tableau unique. From the costumes, the tables and the music, to the lights and use of props, the tableau is the distinctive factor for our Mardi Gras ball. That’s what everyone wants to come see, because they’re not used to seeing this at any other ball. The Order of Osiris is a dream come true for the gay community of Mobile in that an all inclusive carnival organization composed of it’s members is representing everyone in the celebration of Mardi Gras. We do anxiously await what the future may hold for us in our next Order of Osiris Annual Ball....Thus the tradition continues with the costume motto of....

”Never too big, never too much!" Neil Aldridge