Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruby The Mermaid.
Hi Ruby, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
From childhood to adulthood I’ve had a lot of interests and hobbies come and go. However, performing and swimming have always been constant. I grew up swimming like a mermaid and playing pretend and as I got older I watched a lot of shows and movies. I attended college for theatre and during that, I worked for a character company performing at corporate events and birthday parties. I continued to work for that company for several years after graduating, up until I moved to the Austin area. I worked at an Aquarium for a year as their mermaid but due to their limitations, I made my own little business booking gigs and performing in my tails. I make all my own costume pieces and am in charge of everything that goes on. My cousin is also a mermaid and I love booking events where we get to work together. I’m still learning and growing, but I’m proud of where I am at.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not smooth what-so-ever. Money has always been tight. I’ve always had a day-job. Covid completely threw me for a loop because my day job was teaching ballroom dance in 2020. I was laid off and all performing gigs were gone too. I was struggling. Unemployment was a life-saver. Now I’m back on my feet, have a day-job again, and I’m booking gigs on weekends.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I make costume pieces, train myself in swimming, and do my own hair and waterproof make-up to perform as a mermaid. I think what sets me apart is my look. I wear human hair extensions that I’ve dyed three different colors in an ombre to match my hair and add a magical color element. I also think my waterproof makeup sets me apart because parents and guests always seem so shocked that I still look glam after swimming for an extended period of time.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was a goofy and imaginative kid. I loved fantasy and playing outside. My grandparents live on a big lake so every summer I was swimming and playing with my many cousins.
Pricing:
- $200/hr for parties and events.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Instagram.com/Ruby.the.mermaid
Image Credits
Erzulie Film
