Fernando Dovalina: The Interview

Fernando and I met and had a traditional Mexican breakfast at a little Taqueria not too far from the home he shares with his husband, Barry. What was comfort food to Fernando was just downright delicious to me. After we were sufficiently full and caffeinated, we headed over to his home where I was made to feel more than welcome, and I continued to pick his brain about life as a journalist and playwright.

Fernando and I could have spent hours talking about the two years he spent in Beaumont in the 1960's (I have family out that way). But as it was, we had to move on and talk about his work in Fort Worth before eventually settling down in Houston. Fernando has had a varied and wonderfully fascinating career in journalism alone, but now he has ventured into play-writing.

In play-writing, Fernando has studied under Edward Albee and Stuart Ostrow. He has collaborated with J T Buck to write the book for the musical, Gospel According to Tammy Faye, had several of his plays produced in the Houston area and is active in Scriptwriters/Houston. As if all these accomplishments weren't enough, Fernando is now working on his first novel(s).

Fernando was more than gracious to open his home to me and subject himself the multitude of questions I had printed out for him. He was full of funny and very touching stories, He was humble and patient. He never rushed me even though I probably kept him longer then he expected.

Fernando Dovalina and Laura Romero
Property of Laura Romero

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing Fernando Dovalina. (click on link to listen to the interview)

Please visit Scriptwriters/Houston for more information on upcoming events (including the Home Plays you heard about in Fernando's interview)

Look up Fernando's plays at Doollee.com