Chris Rose talks about Mardi Gras with Zulu's 'Mr. Big Stuff' by Chris Rose, Columnist, The Times-Picayune Friday February 20, 2009, 4:00 AM

Attorney Stephen Rue is relishing his role as 'Mr. Big Stuff' in Zulu, which rolls on Mardi Gras morning.He is best known as a high-profile lawyer around town -- civil and criminal courts. Stephen Rue is also a budding filmmaker, having worked three years so far on a Hurricane Katrina documentary set for release in time to commemorate the fifth anniversary. The 48-year-old Metairie native is the former King of the Knights of Jason (2006) and he rode in Endymion for 13 years. But now he is in for the ride of his life: Rue is Mr. Big Stuff for the 100th anniversary Zulu parade on Fat Tuesday. We talked this week about the meaning of it all.

Mr. Big Stuff. Who do you think you are?
I am a very lucky man, that's who.

You are the first Caucasian to earn the title; is that correct? That is correct. How did you get the gig? Because I am 100 percent Zulu! I became an associate member in 2003 and a full active member in 2004 and I found a new family; hundreds of new friends I have developed over the last five years and it has truly enriched my life.

The 'Mr. Big Stuff' float is an iconic part of the Zulu parade. Geez, I was almost going to be cynical enough to ask if you paid for the position -- you being a big shot lawyer and all. Absolutely not. In fact, there have been people who have spent a lot of money on various campaigns for king or one of the characters who have not been successful. I truly believe I was elected Mr. Big Stuff because of my relationships with the members of the club. They judged me on my character, not my color.

What are the duties of Mr. Big Stuff?
To attend all the formal Mardi Gras functions associated with the Social Aid and Pleasure Club. There is the ball and the Lundi Gras celebration. We are also responsible for our character floats. Mr. Big Stuff is float No. 7 and we have our own krewe. We have various parties and functions and it's a truly wonderful experience. I can't wait to ride.

I don't know: It sounds busy, but it doesn't really sound like "work."
It can be as much work or as little work as you want it to be. The more work you give, the better the character.

What do you anticipate will be the biggest difference between your former parade experiences and now?
With all due respect to Endymion and the Knights of Jason I don't think you can compare them. This is an exponentially greater experience for me, personally. This is a great honor.

Let's get to the important stuff: How many coconuts do you have?
 I have purchased over 1,000 coconuts for Mardi Gras day. I'm guessing you didn't paint them all? No, but I painted and signed some of them. And (CNN's) Soledad O'Brien will be giving out coconuts, too. She is my Mrs. Big Stuff.

What criteria will you use to decide who gets a coveted Zulu coconut? T
he Mardi Gras passion I see in someone's eyes. That's the best way I can describe it.

How about these painted walnut thingies they've been throwing the last couple years?
 No walnuts. Only the Big Stuff from Mr. Big Stuff. We're also giving out CDs of the new Mr. Big Stuff song that we recorded with Jean Knight, the original performer of the song, "Mr. Big Stuff, " with Rockin' Dopsie.

Do you know the lyrics to the song? "Mr. Big Stuff. Who do you think you are?"
Yeah. "Mr. Big Stuff: Never gonna get my love." Yeah, I know the words. Quite apropos -- I've been a single man all my life. It is the best possible character for me to wear. Quoting Rex now: If Ever I Cease to Love. You never know. There's a love out there for me somewhere on that parade route. Maybe I'll find her. . . . . . . .

Columnist Chris Rose can be reached at chris.rose@timespicayune.com; or at 504.352.2535 or 504.826.3309.