We're Here

We're Here is a captivating, heartfelt, and vibrant reality television series that aired on HBO in 2020. Helmed by the creators of Queer Eye, this series takes the premise of transforming lives via the art of drag, fused with the power of storytelling, to numerous smaller towns across the United States. We're Here sets out to challenge traditional norms and perceptions, foster understanding, and create spaces of acceptance and joy through its unique approach.

The series is marked by its well-balanced combination of humor, sincerity, flamboyance, and emotional depth. It showcases the transformative power of drag, when used as a force for positive change within these tight-knit communities. The main hosts of the show are former RuPaul's Drag Race contestants Bob the Drag Queen, Eureka O'Hara and Shangela Laquifa Wadley. These charismatic drag queens work as mentors to local residents, who have been plucked from their everyday lives to walk with confidence and courage in an extravagantly staged drag performance by the end of each episode.

The structure of We're Here is episodic, focusing on a new town and collection of mentees in each installment. Nonetheless, there is a recurring theme across all episodes: the protagonists are typically individuals who have experienced alienation or marginalization because of their identities or beliefs. The drag queens take them on, not only to prepare them for the one-night-only drag show, but also to challenge them to step out of their comfort zones, face their traumas or fears, and to embrace their true selves.

The series is not just about an outward physical transformation, but it delves deeply into the protagonists' emotional world as well, showcasing the journey of growth, acceptance, and self-discovery. The hosts themselves become deeply emotionally invested in their handpicked performers' struggles and triumphs, which adds another dimension to the show. This is not merely an entertaining reality series about drag culture, but an exploration of the use of this culture as a tool for personal growth and community acceptance.

The mission of We're Here is to encourage acceptance and understanding in towns where LGBTQ+ stigma and discrimination persist. The series pours out its heart to delve into the hardships faced by the LGBTQ+ community, lending the platform to voices that are often silenced by the mainstream societal narrative. It dwells upon poignant topics like intolerance, prejudice, fear, and transformation.

We're Here employs the sheer power and charm of drag to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and encourage openness and dialog. The show highlights not only the courage of each episode’s protagonists, but also how their personal growth and confidence can inspire new conversations within their communities. It is as much about the transformative power of self-expression as it is about the journey of personal acceptance in the face of adversity.

The exquisite execution and phenomenal production value only add to the series’ appeal, giving it an aesthetic edge which mirrors the dazzling world of drag. The scenography of the closing drag shows in each episode is stunning, overflowing with exuberance and glamour. Likewise, the costume designs and makeovers showcase an impressive level of creativity and artistry.

At its core, We're Here is a powerful and endearing series that documents the life-changing magic that can occur when individuals are given the tools and platform to express their true selves. These narratives echo the universal human experience of grappling with identity, acceptance, and self-expression. The series achieves a remarkable balance in presenting glitz, glamour, emotional vulnerability, and social activism.

In the final analysis, We're Here uses the art of drag as a lens to bring to light the struggles, triumphs, unity, and humanity within these communities, making a significant statement about acceptance and diversity. It's a show that celebrates the freedom of self-expression, the power of community, and the beauty of simply being who you are. Though the series focuses on smaller towns across the United States, the depth of the narratives and the compassion it encompasses has universal appeal, making it a riveting watch for viewers all across the world.