History

Founded in 1919 as a theatrical society, The Mermaids were originally a group of young women who would go down to the beach and read plays together.  As time went on, theatre at the University of St Andrews began to flourish.  With each production applying directly to the Union for money, it became too difficult for the Union to assess applications individually.  Out of all the theatre societies at the time, The Mermaids were chosen to represent the theatre funding body.

Mermaids is now the funding body for performing arts within the student body at the University of St Andrews.  It promotes and facilitates the creation of drama, musical theatre, dance, music, and film.  

As part of the Student Union, every matriculated student is a member of Mermaids – so there’s no reason not to get involved!

Mermaids does not put on shows, but helps students or societies looking to do so.  Support is given primarily in the form of loans and grants, but also through guidance on budget allocation; production accounts; publicity; technical questions; equipment and much much more!  Mermaids also hosts several social events throughout the year including, most notably, the Christmas Ball.

Committee meetings are every Thursday at 1pm in the Students’ Association Committee Room and are open to all students.  We'd love to see you there!