La pastorela or los pastores

la pastorela or los pastores is a mystery play of Spanish origin dating from the middle ages. The appropriate period for its presentation is anytime between Christmas and the feast of the baptism of the lord which marks the end of the Christmas season according to the newly revised liturgical year. This is the traditional time although in some places it is part of the immediate preparation for Christmas while in others it is presented as late as March 19. los pastores is a simple folk interpretation of the probable reaction of the shepherds to the announcement of the birth of jesus. It is a dramatically harmonious blending of the prophecies that preceded the coming of Christ and, thus, through this vehicle of folk theater the church presents the scriptural background behind the story of our redemption. The comical elements which the actors feel free to improvise and introduce anytime make the play “fun.” Devils and angels play a prominent part in the play and contribute to the atmosphere of the celebration.