This award-winning shadow play, celebrated at international festivals in countries like the Dominican Republic and Serbia, invites the audience on an immersive journey led by a mysterious narrator who draws them deep into the heart of the tale. Each morning, Simona the Monkey and her animal friends greet the golden light of dawn, anticipating the arrival of soul-stirring wonders. Through a mesmerizing interplay between light and shadow, a majestic thousand-year-old baobab tree transforms into the stage. From tiny ants to towering elephants, creatures great and small come forth to weave a rich tapestry of fables-timeless stories whispered by the ancient earth itself
Founded in 2001, The Lizard’s Smile is a Spanish-Brazilian theater company dedicated to creating theatrical works that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Their repertoire addresses contemporary Social issues through a rich blend of art forms, including drama, dance, puppetry, clowning, and live music.
Their works have been, showcased at festivals across Argentina, Portugal, the Dominican Republic and Colombia, serving as cultural ambassadors of Asturias and Spain. Since. its founding, the troupe has earned numerous awards and received support from institutions such as the Spanish National Institute of Performing Arts and Music (INAEM), the Principality of Asturias’ Department of Education and Culture the Gijón Municipal Cultural Foundation, the Spanish General Society of Authors and Publishers (SGAE), and the Laboral City of Culture.
Our volunteer team consisted of two members who played crucial roles in facilitating the smooth execution of the event:
Li Hongyi (Eric): Served as the main interpreter and backstage coordinator, responsible for technical operations including lighting control and subtitle management.
Li Linhan: Took charge of on-stage audience engagement and performer introductions.
In September, we welcomed the Spanish theatre troupe “Sonrisa del Lagarto” at the airport parking area. The team arrived with numerous large suitcases wrapped in protective plastic, containing their elaborate puppetry props and performance equipment. As the primary interpreter, I coordinated the luggage handling process while ensuring clear communication between the Spanish troupe and our local logistics team. The group photo captured this initial meeting, showing everyone beaming with excitement for the upcoming performances in Shanghai.
Prior to departing for the hotel, the troupe members reviewed critical documents and materials related to their production “Simona the Monkey.” A brochure featuring a monkey illustration was prominently displayed on the luggage as we finalized travel arrangements. My responsibilities included translating schedule details, logistical information, and ensuring all team members were aligned on the upcoming days’ agenda. I also assisted in organizing essential items for immediate access during transit.
At the Circle Theatre (Xianlesi Theatre), we conducted meticulous inspections of all performance materials. In the theatre corridor, troupe member Avelina (with distinctive red hair) knelt to examine a specialized case containing delicate puppetry props, while I translated detailed instructions regarding prop conditions and temporary storage arrangements. This careful process ensured all equipment was properly accounted for before moving to the hotel.
Two days later, preparations for the first performance began in earnest. In the theatre’s control room, I familiarized myself with professional audio-visual equipment, focusing on lighting control software and the subtitle PPT system I had helped translate. The stage featured a vibrant jungle-themed set with large stylized props, where crew members adjusted placements and conducted sound checks. My role involved translating the troupe’s creative vision to the technical team while coordinating between the control room and stage personnel.
Backstage Operations
The troupe’s technical setup included a specialized laptop connected to professional audio equipment, including a “High Definition Recorder.” This system controlled critical performance elements such as timed animations and audio cues for “Simona the Monkey.” I worked closely with troupe technician Pablos to configure the software and negotiate technical requirements with the theatre staff, ensuring seamless integration of their equipment with the venue’s systems.
During the performance, Li Linhan took center stage to introduce the actors to the audience, speaking in Chinese to help connect the audience with the Spanish performers. Meanwhile, I remained in the control room, managing subtitle displays and lighting cues while standing ready to address any last-minute translation needs. The vibrant stage backdrop featuring animal silhouettes and the word “Fin” (End) created a fitting conclusion to the puppet show.
Following the successful performance, we gathered on the Circle Theatre stage for a group photo. Holding puppet props from “Simona the Monkey,” the troupe members and volunteers celebrated the culmination of our collaborative efforts—from the initial airport pickup and meticulous material checks to the seamless execution of the live performance. This moment captured the spirit of international cultural exchange and the dedication of everyone involved.
The collaboration between Spanish theatre troupe “Sonrisa del Lagarto” and our volunteer team exemplifies successful cross-cultural communication and teamwork. From coordinating logistics to managing technical elements, each volunteer role contributed to the overall success of the performances. This experience not only showcased exceptional puppetry art but also strengthened cultural bonds through effective communication and mutual respect.
