“La Pastorela and Posada,” the traditional Latino cultural Christmas play will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at California State University, Fresno.
“La Pastorela” will be performed by the student theatre group Teatro T.O.R.T.I.L.L.A. at the Satellite Student Union (2485 E. San Ramon Ave. at Maple Avenue, south of Barstow Avenue). It is free and open to the public. Parking is free in Lots P and O at Barstow and Maple.
The event will feature a special performance by the Aztec dance group, Yozaltepet.
“La Pastorela” (“A Shepherd’s Tale”) is a contemporary adaptation of the centuries-old traditional holiday play retelling the shepherds’ journey to Bethlehem upon the birth of Jesus and the obstacles they overcame. It has become a holiday tradition in the Chicano/Latino community as part of the celebration of Christmas and often features a contemporary theme.
Teatro T.O.R.T.I.L.L.A (Teatro of Raza Towards Involvement and Local Latino Awareness) is a Fresno State student organization that performs theatrical productions in the style of the famous El Teatro Campesino founded by Luis Valdez.
Las Posadas (The Inns), a nine-day celebration with origins in Mexico, is observed Dec. 16-24 and symbolizes the trials that Mary and Joseph endured before finding a place to stay where Jesus could be born.
Cosponsoring “La Pastorela” are Es-Tu-Dios, Migrant Student Alliance, Mu Chi Omega and Alpha Pi Sigma.
For more information contact Ofelia Gamez at 559.278.4768 or at ofeliag@csufresno.edu.
