(Manassas) Sheathed in shimmering fishtails, hundreds of women and men rippled in pools this weekend near Washington in one of the world’s major mermaid encounters.
The “MerMagic Convention”, organized in Manassas in the State of Virginia, brings together every year Americans who are passionate about these fantastic creatures.
Simple amateurs or “professional mermaids”, who deploy their talents in the world of entertainment or for private events, compete in pirouettes in the swimming pools of the aquatic center, and in their fancy costumes.
In addition to the rounds in the water and the gala evening in full dress, this convention is also a trade fair with paid lessons in safe swimming, sparkling accessories and professional photos.
But it is above all an opportunity to include all profiles.
“Regardless of age, origin, body type or disability, everyone can be a mermaid,” says a 19-year-old woman, nicknamed Merlot, her head adorned with a headdress matching her long tail. For her, “there are no limits. »
On the program, therefore, round tables entitled “diversity among mermaids”, “big mermaids make waves” or even a workshop “Mermaid makeup for all the colors of the lagoon”.
“Magic”
Suffering from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a neurological disease that atrophies her muscles, Helena McLeod, 33, “cannot walk with human legs”, but beams on the edge of the pelvis in her long tail with blue highlights .
“I love participating in magic, making children smile when they say ‘oh, a mermaid!’ “, she explains to AFP, also wanting to be a model for young people with disabilities. “When kids in wheelchairs see me, they get so excited…”
The “Chobo” mermaid, who has no forearms, explains that she cannot practice a large number of sports. “But I love swimming,” says the 27-year-old, who sports a fuchsia wig and brightly colored fake scales. “Being a mermaid allows me to play sports and express myself”, “it’s very inclusive”.
A 32-year-old woman, who calls herself “Coral Koi”, participates in the event every year. “It’s my favorite convention, where could I find so much magic?” she exclaims.
“It’s a fun way to take care of yourself,” continues this professional naiad. “We all need something to decompress…”