Marisela Barrera, a writer and performance artist based in San Antonio, is deeply immersed in the haunted folklore of her city. She finds inspiration in the spooky stories that have been passed down through generations. According to Barrera, these stories are not just contemporary tales, but they are deeply rooted in the city’s history and connect us to our ancestors.
One of the legends that captivates Barrera the most is the story of the Donkey Lady. She has interpreted this legend in various forms, including a Donkey Lady hotline, a novella, and stage performances. Most recently, Barrera has created a talk show hosted by “La Burra,” a character inspired by the Donkey Lady legend. This tale is one of the most famous urban myths in San Antonio.
The Donkey Lady is depicted as a single woman who is misunderstood and seen as an outsider. The legend tells of a traumatic fire that occurred while she was raising burros on the outskirts of the city. Misunderstood by her community, she is said to have scared everyone away with her thick skin. There are different versions of the Donkey Lady story, each with its own unique details and variations based on location.
Barrera adds her own personal touch to the Donkey Lady story, drawing from various sources and her own experiences. She believes that the diversity of versions of the story allows for a shared understanding among different communities. Barrera’s version of the story emphasizes the Donkey Lady’s struggles as a single parent without access to healthcare, leading to the separation from her child due to the trauma of being homeless.
After encountering La Burra at Applewhite Bridge in south San Antonio, Barrera had a conversation with the mysterious lady. Contrary to her expectations, the Donkey Lady was not frightening but had a captivating and somewhat alluring voice. This encounter inspired Barrera to create art centered around the Donkey Lady’s story, portraying her as a strong yet misunderstood figure who looks out for her community.
According to Barrera, the Donkey Lady believes that the community is now ready to hear her story, especially during times of turmoil and disconnection. She emphasizes the importance of listening to each other as a way to heal the wounds within the community and the state at large. Barrera’s artistic interpretation of the Donkey Lady’s story aims to shed light on the strength and resilience of a woman who has been misunderstood and marginalized.
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