This holiday season, El Teatro Campesino once again presents its
popular and critically-acclaimed classic Shepherd
’s Play classic, “La Pastorela.” The play will be performed in
the historic Old Mission of San Juan Bautista, called the cathedral
of the California missions.
This holiday season, El Teatro Campesino once again presents its popular and critically-acclaimed classic Shepherd’s Play classic, “La Pastorela.” The play will be performed in the historic Old Mission of San Juan Bautista, called the cathedral of the California missions.
Shepherd’s Plays or ‘Pastorelas’ originated in medieval Europe as religious dramas and were later brought to the new world and old Alta California by the Spanish missionaries.
“La Pastorela” recreates the long trek of those first “pastores” to the holy site of the Nativity. The Lucifer character of ‘Luzbel’ and his demons attempt to thwart the shepherds from reaching Bethlehem and the Holy Manger. However in a dynamic clash of good against evil, San Miguel, the Archangel, and an army of angels overpower the demonic forces of Luzbel and the shepherds are at last free to complete their journey.
“La Pastorela” was first presented by El Teatro Campesino as a puppet show, then as a street play in the historic pueblo of San Juan and finally as a colorful, musical spectacle, innovatively staged throughout the entire Mission church.
Presented and sung entirely in Spanish, the spirit and music of the highly visual play transcends any language barriers, providing a joyous experience, touching all with the true essence of Christmas.
Advance ticket sales are strongly recommended as most performances normally “sell-out” before the show date.
“La Pastorela” runs at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and at 4 and 8 p.m. Sundays though Dec. 21. Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and students and $12 for children under 12. Call the box office at (831) 623-2444.
