LOS PASTORES

the long version

Every year beginning in September, mexicano residents from South Texas barrios gather regularly to plan, practice, and finally perform Los Pastores, a nativity play that originated in medieval Spain, was brought to the New World by early missionaries, and continues to flourish as a statement of religious devotion and cultural identity. In Los Pastores, Richard Flores recounts the production of the play by one San Antonio troupe. As ethnographer, he explores the play's significance to both performers and audience; as cast member, he brings to life the vitality and ritual practice of this mystery play from the Old World.