Malaysia’s ‘Rubber Girl’ dreams of competing in California

KOTA KINABALU - She can make her limbs go “topsy-turvy”, twisting her body at odd angles.

That demonstrates the flexibility of 14-year-old contortionist Rylette Bewsher.

“I love how contortionists fold and bend their bodies and limbs. I find it interesting. It’s quite difficult to do, and even master, but it can be done with consistent practice,” she said.

Her talent was discovered about 10 years ago by her mother Raina Ampun, who was dismayed at first.

“She called me and said ‘Mummy look, I can do this’, and started bending her body fully backwards and holding onto her ankles,” said the 35-year-old.

“I was so shocked. I screamed at her to stop. I told her that she was going to break her bones.”

But little Rylette was beaming proudly as she demonstrated her stunt to her mother for the first time.

She had learnt the move from a video on Facebook, which marked the start of her self-taught journey into the world of contortion.

Rylette, who is of Eurasian-Rungus parentage, would perform stunts every day, getting ideas from social media platforms, as well as talent shows such as America’s Got Talent.

The shy girl prefers to practise alone. But she harbours dreams of becoming a professional contortionist, and perhaps even opening a studio in Sabah for those with this unique talent.

Rylette’s favourite performer is Ms Sofie Dossi, who has been described as a self-taught contortionist and hand balancer.

Rylette’s parents have been supportive of her efforts.

They are raising funds to send her to the 28th World Championships of Performing Arts in Long Beach, California, following an invitation last July from the organisers.

The cost of the 12-day trip for the mother and daughter, which includes airfare and accommodation, plus the US$3,500 (S$4,800) entry fee, is estimated at RM40,000 (S$12,200).

It is a sum they need to raise by March 15 – the confirmation date with the competition’s organisers.

Rylette’s father, Mr Winston Bewsher, who is a driver at a local company, is hoping for public assistance.

“My wife is a homemaker. We have three other children to care for, all younger than Rylette.

“I hope there are kind and generous people who will come forward and help make a dream come true,” he said, adding that he had also sent letters to state leaders to ask for sponsorship. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK