Mermaid Theater

Being a mid-sized city in the deep south, you might not think of
Baton Rouge as necessarily being a center for the performing
arts. But there is a lot of hidden talent in this town doing
really impressive things on the stage – and at birthday
parties! 


Jenny Ballard is the managing artistic director of Theatre Baton
Rouge. Jenny began her career in Tennessee and came to Baton
Rouge after several years in local theater there, to pursue a
master’s degree in fine arts. After completing the program, Jenny
joined Theater Baton Rouge in 2014, and in the years since has
helped lead the company through many successful productions, a
huge capital campaign and efforts to grow the company’s volunteer
base and its education programs. 


Venessa Lewis is also in the performing arts arena -  though
not on stage. Rather, she’s more likely to show up at a kiddie
birthday party or perhaps swimming with the sharks in Mexico
dressed up as the Louisiana Mermaid, which is her alternate
persona. Venessa has a custom-made mermaid costume that she wears
for public appearances, where she not only entertains but teaches
young people about the oceans and marine life conservation. She
also owns the Petite Princess Company, which rents out princesses
for birthdays and other events. 


Out to Lunch Baton Rouge is recorded live over lunch at Mansurs
on the Boulevard. You can see photos from this show by Ken
Stewart on our website. And for more fun in Baton Rouge, check
out what you can do on a bike.


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