By Brian Argabright
The 830 Times
In a few days Del Rio will once again be in the public spotlight, but for what I hope people realize is a good reason.
As many of you recall, a few months ago a film crew from HBO Max was in Del Rio to film an episode of the hit series “We’re Here,” which chronicles the adventures of a trio of drag queens as they visit small towns and help members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. At the time, the participants and attendees of the taping of the drag show were kept under a strict non-disclosure agreement.
Well folks, it’s time to lift that veil and let you know that the Del Rio episode makes its way to HBO Max Monday, Oct. 25, at 9 p.m. Tell your friends, tell your neighbors, spread the word and let folks know!
I’ve seen a rough version of the episode already and I can tell you that it’s an emotional rollercoaster. It’s also one of the more unique episodes of “We’re Here” because of the way the stories are told and because of the representation of the Latino community we have here.
I’m not going to spoil any of it for you, the reader, because I want you to experience it the way I did – as a resident of Del Rio wondering how our community will be presented. I went to the drag show but I wasn’t treated to any behind the scenes activities nor did I speak to any of the folks involved ahead of time. I went in knowing just what I had seen in previous episodes and enjoyed myself at the show because it was entertaining.
Since I began working on a preview for the show, which will drop on 830times.com later this week, I have been hearing from folks associated with the episode and all of them are excited to see this story finally be introduced to the world. As Del Rioans know, anywhere you go the chance to run into another person from Del Rio may not be high, but it’s never zero. There are probably penguins in the artic that have dined on Julio’s Chips and Salsa.
I also know there are people here who won’t watch or don’t agree with that part of our community having a spotlight shown on it and that’s sad. Just a few weeks ago we banded together to help visitors to our community and now I anticipate memes and social media posts and tacky comments about the whole thing and to that I say grow up. There are so many amazing people in Del Rio, and so many folks who have gone on to do great things outside this town, and they just happen to be part of the LGBTQ+ community. They’re great people … period. They’re part of our history, a part of our present and they’ll definitely be a part of our future.
There will be a public pre-screening of the show Saturday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. at the Dr. Alfredo Gutierrez Amphitheater. Doors open at 5:30. Come on and enjoy the show and have some fun!
—
Brian Argabright has been a journalist for more than 25 years. An award-winning writer and photographer, he has covered sports, features and much more during his career. Contact him at drnhsports@gmail.com
