
Distinguished Artist Series: Postcards from the Border – Brownsville
What does it mean to grow up on the Texas-Mexico border? For acclaimed novelist Oscar Cásares, it’s a story he wanted to share with his 10-year-old daughter, Elena. (UTRGV Arts, 2026)
To bring his roots to life, Cásares teamed up with photographer Joel Salcido to travel the winding length of the Rio Grande—from the twin cities of El Paso and Juarez all the way down to Brownsville and Matamoros. Originally appearing as an essay in Texas Monthly, these postcards and their stories have evolved into a breathtaking multimedia stage production.
A Multidimensional Experience
This isn’t just a reading; it’s an immersion into the life and culture of the borderlands. The performance weaves together:
- Live Narration: Told firsthand by Oscar Cásares.
- Original Music: Composed and performed by celebrated singer-songwriter Carrie Rodriguez and her five-piece band.
- Visual Storytelling: Stirring photography by Joel Salcido and documentary footage by Luke Jacobs.
Together, these artists shine a light on the generations of families whose stories have often been overlooked. This is the story of our border, told by one of our own.
Event Details
| Date | Time | Location |
| Thursday, April 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM) | TSC Performing Arts Center 90 Taylor Avenue, Brownsville, TX |
Ticket Information
- General Admission: $20
- UTRGV Students: FREE admission on the day of the event! Just bring your valid student ID or show your status on the GET app.

