Meet Mercedes Riegé | Actress & Singer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mercedes Riegé and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mercedes, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born and raised in Rosario, Argentina- yes, like Messi- but I moved to New York to pursue a career in theatre in 2021 at 18 years old.

As a stubborn teenager, I always wanted to move to the greatest city in the world; I always felt Rosario was “too small” for me (eye rolls). Now, three years later, I see how much I brought from my country and “small” city with me. The way I greet people with a smile and a kiss on the cheek, how much I like introducing people to mate (South American drink), and how I skip every “S” when I speak- a common characteristic of the Rosarian accent. Every small feature that I once (mistakenly) considered ordinary and boring, is what now makes me unique and, most importantly, connects me to the place I fondly miss.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I first got to New York, I was certain of what I loved and wanted to do: perform in musicals. I still want to do it, it’s not a dream I’ll ever let go of, but I realized soon enough that there’s so much more out there to do: TV, film, write, direct, dance, etc.

There is somewhat of a rule that “everyone should stick to what they know how to do,” I used to believe it but now I fight it. If there’s a chance for me to be in a creative environment, whether it is as a performer, or director, or production assistant, I will take it.

As long as my “artist self” is nurtured, I will try out anything. I can proudly say that I live by this, it’s not just words I say. I’ve worked in theatre administration, performed in many cabarets around town, I’ve acted in many short films, as well as written and directed a couple of my own. My roles within the industry have shifted (and will keep on shifting), but what’s important is that my creativity has always been well-fed.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Take the 1 train downtown to the very last stop, South Ferry, and walk up the west side of the river until you reach Pier 26. Do so by 6 pm, so that you get the 7 pm sunset with a beautiful view of New Jersey and downtown New York. Might as well, get a drink at City Vineyard- they have a gorgeous outdoor area. Once you’re done with the daylight, head over to the West Village (Christopher St, if we’re still dealing with the 1 train) and visit any of these iconic jazz clubs: Bluenote, Smalls’, Arthur’s Tavern, Cafe Wha.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family and friends back home… they make sure I don’t ever doubt myself. I’m amazed by the love and support I get from them, it’s the one constant thing I have in a world full of unprecedented circumstances.

Instagram: @mercedesriege

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ9i6Fk94DImw8wOnQLigrw

Image Credits
Headshot images: Lucía Benetti