Real-life mermaid at Paris Aquarium
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E-mail CNTV, August 16, 2014
Parisians have been getting an up-close look at a real-life mermaid at the French capital's main aquarium. A science student has been making waves with visitors, by taking the plunge for a swim with the tropical fish... in full-mermaid tail and costume. But there's a serious message behind the show.
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Parisians have been getting an up-close look at a real-life mermaid at the French capital's main aquarium. |
Fantasy meets reality.
Children and adults watch in wonder as Claire Baudet -- otherwise known as "Claire la Sirene" -- dives down to swim among the groupers and eagle rays.
The 25-year-old has trained to hold her breath underwater for long periods of time. She says being a mermaid is a relaxing experience.
"I love the water. I grew up by the sea, and I love diving. For this show I've learnt how to hold my breath. I also love everything fantastical and magical, and all the creatures that come from the imagination," Claire said.
When she's not being a mermaid, Baudet studies "Information and Communication Science", at Sorbonne Nouvelle University.
Officials at the aquarium say that as well as being entertaining, the show has a serious message.
"We take an educational approach. So it's all about learning while having fun. This is a surprising experience, both for children and adults. It brings together an impressive visual spectacle, combining beauty, grace, and everything you'd associate with mermaids. But there's also a message behind it, a message about protecting the ocean's wildlife," said Mathieu Pitou, assistant director of Paris Aquarium.
The magical performance has certainly left a big impression on many young visitors to the show.
Claire Baudet will be diving into the French capital's tropical waters until August 22nd.
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