Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The spirit of Three Kings Day is taking on a theatrical glow in Puerto Vallarta this season as a local business works to bring the magic of the stage to children in need. Salvador “Chavo” Rodriguez and Alberto “Beto” Ávila, the dedicated duo behind Lulú Pan Francés Café, have launched an initiative to perform the acclaimed play Jonás y sus libros voladores (Jonás and His Flying Books) for the kids at the Máximo Cornejo and RISE orphanages during the first week of January 2026.
This effort follows a triumphant run at the Puerto Vallarta Institute of Culture this past November. The story follows Jonás, a young boy who uncovers a deep passion for writing after discovering books that magically come to life. By bringing this production directly to the orphanages, the organizers hope to provide an immersive professional theater experience that many of these children have never had the chance to enjoy.
As longtime supporters of the Vallarta arts scene, Salvador and Alberto are no strangers to creative community service. Their café in the Romantic Zone’s Plaza Romy frequently serves as a hub for local talent, hosting workshops and displaying regional artwork. This project is a natural extension of their commitment to the arts, with “Chavo” himself taking on the lead role of Jonás. He is joined on stage by local singer Azul Cadena and actor Chris Montoya, who portrays the protagonist’s uncle.
The goal is to turn a traditional holiday into a source of long-term inspiration. Salvador expressed his hope that the performance will act as a gift that encourages the children to pursue their own dreams and passions, mirroring the journey of the character on stage.
To make these special performances a reality, the team has set a fundraising goal of $21,850 MXN through GoFundMe. These funds are dedicated to covering the essential costs of the production, including the transportation of scenery, professional fees for the performers, and the technical setup required at each orphanage.
Community members and visitors who wish to contribute to this cultural gift can participate by donating any amount to the “Theatre in Orphanages of PV” campaign. Every contribution brings the magic of Jonás and his flying books one step closer to the children of Casa Hogar Máximo Cornejo and RISE.
Since 1993, Casa Hogar Maximo Cornejo has provided a safe haven for children who have been abandoned or who come from unstable homes marked by extreme poverty, abuse, or domestic violence. Its mission is to nurture each child’s talents, abilities, and sense of self-worth, helping them grow, thrive, and find their place in society. Beyond meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, and education, the Home offers something even more meaningful: a supportive family environment. Here, children and adolescents are encouraged to dream, build confidence, and turn those dreams into real possibilities for the future.
R.I.S.E. (Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza) is a privately funded, 50-bed children’s shelter in Puerto Vallarta, providing a loving environment for children who are “at risk” at home or have no home. These resilient children range in age from newborn to mid-teens. For 20 years RISE has operated with a combination of a great staff and a team of volunteers that keep RISE running. RISE is 100% funded through private donations and fundraising is a huge part of our ability to provide these children with nutritional meals, education, medical and dental services, activities, clothing & more. Learn more at risepv.com.
