In the 1950’s Rita Vidaurri, Beatriz Llamas, Blanca Rodriguez and the late Perla Tapatia each carved out successful careers for themselves as singers and entertainers touring throughout the US and Latin America. The four women thrived in a business and era dominated by sexism, racism, and homophobia.
In 2006, the four women came together for a special performance at the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center. They called themselves Las Tesoros.
On Sunday, Las Tesoros will come together once again for two performances to celebrate the release of their first compilation album Las Tesoros de San Antonio: Las Estrellas de Ayer. The cd features original rancheras and boleros recorded during the peak of their careers. It is dedicated to the memory of Perla Tapatia.
“La Perla,” as she was known, was a role model for the LGBT community who lived with her partner Marie A. Torres until her death at the age of 83 in August of 2014. Her passion for singing was unparalleled, and she was one of few performers to sing with a tracheostomy after having undergone 39 surgeries due to throat cancer.
An exhibit of photographs taken throughout the women’s lives and careers will also be on display from February 7 through March 26.
“Las Estrellas de Ayer” CD Release and Performance
$5. Performances at 3pm and 6pm. Sun. Feb. 7, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, 922 San Pedro Ave, (210) 228-0201, esperanzacenter.org
