Two sets of tuxes, costumes, and talents were on display at the 10th annual Essence of Man Competition Wednesday.

The Black Student Union sponsored the pageant-style competition, which featured two contenders in a head-to-head contest, where the winner took home the title of Mr. Essence.

BSU Parliamentarian Joyce Lennix said there are usually more than two participants in the Essence of Man Competition, but the level of skill and talent the competition requires may have warded other entrants away.

“It’s very competitive,” she said. “It can be intimidating.”

BSU President Andre Allen said contestants Brian Hannah, a junior economics major, and Darnell Tyms, a sophomore English and communication studies major, displayed a level of talent that may encourage other young men to enter the competition next year.

“I know that next year we can build off of that talent,” Allen said. “We’re trying to put the pageant on a larger scale.”

Allen said the small number of participants did not hamper the evening, and the competition was still able to be a diverse display of talent.

“This is one of the best shows we’ve had,” Allen said. “Each contestant had unique talents.”

Essence of Man judge LaVeasey Carter said he expected the low number of participants to make for a more intimate experience between the contestants and the audience, giving Hannah and Tyms a chance to display the talents that represent Eastern.

“This is a showcase for our institution, it’s a showcase for how we develop our students,” Carter said.

The judges divided their support between both Tyms and Hannah.

The audience, however, ultimately voted in favor of Tyms, winning him the title of Mr. Essence.

Tyms said the competition was difficult, but ultimately a worthwhile task.

“It’s been great to see all this hard work and late nights have an outcome,” Tyms said.

Tyms said he has known Hannah since the sixth grade, and that it made for an interesting dynamic backstage.

“There’s no hurt feelings,” Tyms said. “We’re used to bash talking.”

Tyms said the competition is great for minority students as well as the university as a whole.

“It show cases talents of minority men on campus, which is something that needs to be seen more,” Tyms said.

Andrew Crivilare can be reached at 581-2812 or ajcrivilare@eiu.edu.