Els Pastorets 32nd Edition Unveils Enhanced Shadows and Choreography in Sant Julià de Lòria

The 32nd edition of *Els Pastorets* in Sant Julià de Lòria will feature expanded use of Chinese shadows, new visual effects, magic tricks, and more elaborate choreography, co-directors Núria Montes and Txell Díaz have announced. The volunteer-driven show, involving about 100 participants aged two to 70, opens on 26 December in front of the Casa Comuna with 6pm and 8pm sessions, followed by dates on 28 December and 4 and 6 January.

Rehearsals began in October and reached full dress runs this weekend despite rain, cold, and the threat of snow. This marks the second year outdoors, a shift prompted by the 2022 fire at the Centre de Congressos that left the theatre unavailable. Díaz noted significant refinements from last year's debut. "It was experimental then—we were learning with the shadows and outdoor setup. Now it's far more polished and dynamic as a street spectacle," she said during a recent session.

The script, adapted from Folch i Torres, has been shortened to around 45 minutes for better flow, with shadows helping compress scenes—from 15 minutes to just three in some cases—to suit the open-air format. A standout change casts the Getzé role as female Canòlica, a widow tempted by the devil, weaving in subtle themes of how Satan preys on women. Other tweaks include Saint Michael as the "white lady" and angels as menairons, nodding to Andorran folklore.

The diverse cast, including returning core members and newcomers, navigates logistical hurdles through tight teamwork. Technicians rig scenery, sound, and lights outdoors, shielding props from drizzle, while performers prepare costumes and makeup nearby amid laughter. Canolich Giribet, 20, who has played Farigola since childhood, praised the camaraderie: "We're a tight group that supports one another." She added that the weather heightens intensity but keeps things productive and enjoyable.

Pol Martos, playing young Satanàs, shared tales of slips turned into comic improvisation, crediting family tradition—multiple Martos relatives, including brother Enric as Lluquet and uncle Enric as Jeremies, have joined over years, once fielding 15 members. New voices like Edith García (a village shepherdess), Laia Guillé (guardian), and others emphasized the joy of stage time, parish bonds, and volunteer spirit.

Díaz underscored the production's community pull: a major undertaking that unites the parish, demands affection in direction, and refreshes a cherished Christmas ritual with timely innovations, drawing locals and visitors alike.