Second Act
1 Woman. 1 Act. 1 Comeback.
A cabaret about the power of art to transform us. Song, story, dance, and aerial acrobatics. Raw. Funny. Healing.
The show
A TEDtalk meets musical theatre: Second Act is a delightful, honest one woman show about how to start over, live boldly, and make a difference. Filled with song, dance, and lots of stories, Merry tells her story about leaving domestic violence and chasing her dreams.
Second Act premiered at Antagonist Productions to a sold-out crowd and came back for a two-night revival, with an opening act by Lucy and the Love Letters.
What audiences are saying
“An absolute joy to watch. Merry has taken her lived experience and condensed it into an hourlong, practically conversational journey through life... you won’t want to miss it.”
@the_jay.bird
“Poise. Humility. Elegance. It’s so beautiful y’all. You will laugh. You will cry. It will leave you wanting more! Go see SECOND ACT!”
@reagangrees
“Encourages the audience to chase their gift whatever it is... proving you can do what you want in life and feel the sunshine from it.”
@auntbfreeman
On stage
Ways to book it
Limited runs
The full show for theatres and performing arts venues.
Festivals
A powerful, intimate show for arts and storytelling festivals.
Keynote
A keynote version for universities, nonprofits, and corporate events.
Keynotes
Talks that blend vulnerability, expertise, and stage presence.
Second Act: Starting Over After Trauma
My story of leaving domestic violence and returning to the stage. A talk about resilience, courage, and the healing power of art.
For survivor advocacy groups, universities, and women's organizations
Taking Up Space in a World That Makes You Small
Reclaiming confidence, presence, and your right to be seen.
For corporate wellness, leadership conferences, and sororities
The Power of Your Story
How personal narrative becomes activism, healing, and art.
For nonprofits, TEDx-style talks, and storytelling festivals
A PhD in communication, lived experience as a survivor, and a performer's stage presence: talks that teach, move, and empower.
Bring Second Act to you
Tell me about your venue, event, or audience, and I'll send options for the show or a keynote.