Sant Julià de Lòria Premieres 32nd Outdoor Els Pastorets

Sant Julià de Lòria has premiered the 32nd edition of its annual Christmas production *Els Pastorets*, staging the classic tale outdoors in front of the Casa Comuna for the second consecutive year.

Around 100 people of all ages attended yesterday's opening performance, seated on chairs arranged before the building and kept warm with blankets and portable heaters. Some watched standing at the back. Before the show began, two actors dressed as shepherds mingled with the crowd, handing out roasted chestnuts and trading jokes to build excitement and bridge the gap between stage and audience—one quipped to a visitor from Andorra la Vella about animals in every house there.

The 45-minute production featured actors entering and exiting through the Casa Comuna's doors and windows, revealing characters in a dynamic sequence. Co-directors Txell Díaz and Núria Montes enhanced the Chinese shadow puppetry introduced last year, refining techniques across all setups for greater visual impact on the building's facade, which served as a canvas for silhouettes, scenes, and even depictions of hell.

The script builds on Guillem Folch i Torres's 16th-century original, weaving in Andorran folklore like the Dama Blanca and Llop de la Senyoreta, alongside familiar figures such as Lluquet and Farigola in humorous adventures. Anna Mangot returned for costume design. Díaz described it as a family ritual, where locals reunite after Christmas meals to watch neighbors perform, crediting volunteers' dedication for the polished result.

The brisk pace kept viewers engaged, ending in strong applause. Attendees left smiling, praising the enduring tradition.

Further performances are scheduled for 28 December, 4 January, and 6 January, with sessions at 6pm and 8pm. Officials hinted at surprises like special lighting and shadow effects on certain nights, urging residents and visitors to attend. The parish council highlighted the blend of tradition and entertainment.