365: The Reboot

The mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs have entertained visitors since 1947.  In 1946, Newton Perry purchased Weeki Wachee, hiring and training the 'mermaids' to perform synchronized ballet moves underwater using hidden air hoses.  In 1959, ABC purchased the spring and built the theater that remains there today.  Back in the 1960's this was THE place to work.. girls would travel from as far as Tokyo to tryout to become a mermaid.  The mermaids performed eight shows a day to wold-out crowds, entertaining nearly half a million people annually.  The story is amazing... and has been highlighted on the History channel countless times.  Living in Florida and never making it out to see the mermaids seemed like a sin.... so this was one of the items I intentionally placed on my "list" for the 365 Challenge.  I finally made it out there this past weekend.  The park itself is slightly rundown (then again I come from the world of big theme parks) and the occupancy was low the day I was there.  But I'm glad I went.  The mermaids are mesmerizing.  How they do such beautiful moves under water while holding their breath and still making eye contact, smiling, and in some cases moving their lips to the track being played... is beyond me.  I saw the newer show "The Little Mermaid," which was entertaining and fun, in addition to the "Mermaids of Yesteryears," which is a once a month show that brings back former mermaids to perform for audiences.  Wow.  Some of these women were in their 60's and they still have what it takes.  In addition to the mermaid shows, there is a River Boat Cruise (very relaxing), an Animal Show (didn't make that due to the times it was showing) and a simple reconnection with nature.  I'd definitely recommend you checking it out at least once... especially if you live in Florida.  It's a historic icon of our state... why wouldn't you!?  Just note if bringing small kids the drive from Orlando isn't the easiest and can run you anywhere from an hour and twenty minutes to two hours based on traffic.