My story

Art saves lives, because it saved mine.

Put on this earth to empower others to live bigger, love deeper, and laugh louder.

Merry laughing in front of a teal door framed with rainbow flowers

Taking up space

I am a performer and storyteller who believes in the radical power of taking up space. After nearly a decade in academia, I returned to the stage in 2022 while rebuilding my life after leaving domestic violence. What started as healing through community theatre became a full-time performance career and a mission to create work that holds space for survival, joy, and transformation.

I have a PhD in Communication from the University of Kentucky and spent years teaching storytelling and public speaking, as well as working in the non-profit sector, consulting on projects around the world. Now, I channel that expertise into solo performance work and keynote talks that blend raw honesty with Broadway-caliber artistry.

I recently premiered Second Act, a solo cabaret about resilience and reclaiming power. I perform regularly with Sora Contemporary Circus and train with Steps on Broadway. Based in Lexington, KY. Available for travel.

Merry twirling in a pink gown beneath a glowing glass sculpture

Along the way

PhD in Communication

University of Kentucky, where I teach dance and communication.

Classical ballet

Trained in ballet, and a guest artist with the Lexington Ballet.

Steps on Broadway

Completed the theatre jazz track at the conservatory in 2023.

Circus since 2016

Contortion, aerial silks, straps, lyra, sling, and more.

Trained singer

Mezzo-soprano with a range of G3 to C6.

Second Act

My solo show, which premiered to a sold-out house.

Velvet Revival

The cabaret I created and produce.

Duo DeMere

My duo with DeSean Elliott.

Merry laughing in earmuffs and a colorful windbreaker outside Grand Central Merry blowing a kiss outside Grand Central in the snow Merry smiling over her shoulder on a New York City street Merry standing under the Vanderbilt Ave street sign Merry sitting on the steps of a teal door, laughing and looking up Merry posing playfully in front of a teal door with rainbow flowers Headshot of Merry in teal velvet Merry laughing in a sparkly sequin top Merry taking a selfie in Times Square

Let's work together

Want to bring my story to your stage, event, or classroom?