in Austin, Texas Greetings from the Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas, where coming attractions include An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma; Sex, Death & Small Talk with British comedian Brett Goldstein; and Leslie Odom Jr – The Christmas Tour. But tonight it’s all about an election watch party for James Talarico, the great Democratic hope for the US Senate in Texas. No doubt Republicans, who have falsely cast Talarico as gay, vegan and “a soy latte”, would love to seize on the fact his event is being held at a venue that has hosted ballet, opera and Broadway musicals. But it’s too late. Long lines of people are waiting to enter the main auditorium but I’ve been told reporters will not be allowed inside; we will have to watch a livestream instead. The plaza outside offers gorgeous views of the Austin skyline at night and features a taco truck, other food vendors, racks of T-shirts for sale, handmade ceramics for sale, bandanas for $36 a pop and even embroiderers making bandanas