As these little cork and wood puppets leap onto a stage consisting of a wooden stage draped in flowery fabrics, we understand the magic of the Bonecos of Santo Aleixo and their amazing hold on audiences, even managing to overcome the language barrier. Taking place in dimmed light, between improvisation, audience interaction, and the compelling fusion between popular culture and erudite texts, these puppets create an atmosphere that resembles something from centuries ago. The music, performed live with Portuguese guitar, is another of their attractions.