“Blessed Banquet” Aims too Rekindle Family Connection and Showcase Puerto rican Talent
A new Puerto Rican television special, “Blessed Banquet,” is poised to debut with a message of gratitude and a desire to inspire families across the island. The production, a collaboration between De Barrio Foundation and Israel Media, seeks to offer entertainment alongside moments of reflection and a celebration of local creativity.
Radio host and presenter Raymond Romero, known for his work on “El relajo” on La X FM and “PR en vivo” on TeleOnce, was initially unaware of the background of the production team and the community involved. He was notably struck by the work of Father Orlando Lugo, who leads a community previously impacted by high crime rates. “seeing the execution of those guys made me stay longer. The reality is that it is indeed a spectacular project,” Romero shared.
A particularly poignant element of the special features Romero sharing a personal thanksgiving Day experience with his son, adding an intimate and relatable touch to the narrative.
Directed by Israel Gonzalez with acting direction by Alexander the First, and general production led by Father Orlando Lugo and Jonel Fabian Cruz, “Blessed Banquet” aims to be more than just a one-time event. both Romero and Father Lugo hope it will pave the way for increased opportunities for young Puerto Rican creators on television.
“It has been a pleasure to work with thes students and these young peopel. They are very talented, and it seems to me that an exercise like this should be repeated on all the channels in Puerto rico,” Romero stated, emphasizing the need to provide practical experience for university students seeking careers in production.
The special’s creators envision ”Blessed Banquet” as a catalyst for family togetherness. Romero believes it will “provoke something that we have not done in a long time and that we need as a family: to sit down and enjoy together a special that edifies us, that unites us, that leads us to reflect,” harking back to a time when families would dedicate uninterrupted time to shared experiences.
Beyond the humor, the production intends to offer solace and hope, particularly for those facing difficult times during the holidays. Father Lugo, who also works as an announcer on “El Circo de la Mega,” emphasized the importance of sowing hope and staying true to his values as a priest. He believes laughter is “the medicine of the soul,” but also recognizes the need to address deeper emotional needs.
Ultimately, “Blessed Banquet” seeks to remind viewers that gratitude is a daily practice that strengthens individuals and communities, offering both entertainment and a message of unity and resilience.
