Intergenerational theatre programme in Andorra la Vella uses sketches and discussions to teach

Andorra la Vella has relaunched the Viari Show this June, an intergenerational theatre programme targeting fourth-grade pupils aged 9 and 10 at three parish schools: Escola Janer, Col·legi Sant Ermengol, and Escola Francesa. The initiative uses seven sketches to teach road safety, public space etiquette, and civic habits through scenarios acted by 12 seniors from Cases Pairals, the children, and traffic officers.

The performances cover everyday situations such as bus conduct with priority for seniors and pregnant women, feeding street pigeons or cats, correct pedestrian crossings, seatbelt use, mobile phone dangers while driving, school transport, etiquette around public works, scooter use, and picking up dog waste. After each sketch, pupils join officers in discussions to spot improper behaviours and reinforce rules, with children quickly identifying key issues.

Traffic and Parking Counsellor Xavier Surana highlighted the programme's value in starting civic education early to counter incivility and establish clear boundaries. He described it as "a different and approachable way to address values like coexistence, respect, and responsibility with children, involving them actively." Surana noted the seniors' engagement—many likely grandparents to similar-aged children—and its role in fostering generational dialogue amid growing population, vehicles, and traffic demands.

Four sessions are scheduled this month, though calendar issues restricted participation despite invitations to other schools. The effort also builds social cohesion by involving seniors in accident prevention and habit-sharing, with Surana calling for annual renewals to sustain these opportunities. He added that it promotes citizen training and yields strong results in responsibility and respect.