Special TAMIU Screening of KLRN’s ‘Mariachi High’ June 21

KLRN, Laredo’s public television station, and the Guadalupe & Lilia Martínez Foundation will present a special screening of “Mariachi High,” a national broadcast special of the PBS Arts Summer Festival series on Thurs., June 21 at 6 p.m. at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU).

This captivating documentary features a year in the life of Zapata High School mariachi musicians, all part of the top-ranked ensemble Mariachi Halcon. The screening is free and open to the public, but advanced reservations are required.  A screening is also scheduled in Zapata Wednesday, June 20.

In a part of America that rarely makes headlines, there is a group of teenagers who have put the small town of Zapata on the arts and cultural map. “Mariachi High” provides much-needed affirmative screen time for teens who are inspired by cultural pride and striving for excellence.

“As more viewers tune in to PBS for performing arts programs, KLRN is excited to host this free screening of ‘Mariachi High,’ in the local communities that inspire us daily,” said Mario A. Vazquez, KLRN executive vice president and station manager. “PBS and the producers of ‘Mariachi High’ do an exceptional job of demonstrating the relevance of school art programs.  We encourage the local and surrounding South Texas towns to attend the screenings in support of the children who are making an impact in your communities,” Vazquez said.

For more information on how to attend the full program screening of “Mariachi High,” call KLRN at 210.270.9000 or 800.627.8193 or visit www.klrn.org/mariachi.

The PBS Arts Summer Festival kicks off June 29 and airs Fridays at 9 p.m. on KLRN.  The program special, “Mariachi High,” airs Friday, June 29 at 9 p.m. on KLRN. 

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu