On August 1, 2025, the celebrated Pageant of the Masters marks its 92nd annual season at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, continuing its tradition of transforming art into living tableaux vivants. Opening on July 5 and running nightly through August 29, the production brings together more than a quarter‑million attendees with its signature blend of theatrical artistry, community spirit, and visual innovation.
This year’s theme, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” showcases iconic works and landmarks from across the state. From masterpieces on loan from institutions such as LACMA, the Getty, Laguna Art Museum, Norton Simon Museum, and Hearst Castle, the show brings to life artwork by artists including Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and even site-specific recreations of architecture like San Francisco’s Mechanics Monument.
Produced by the Festival of Arts, this immersive experience is staged at the Irvine Bowl amphitheater, set into the Laguna Canyon hills. Each 90-minute performance opens at 8:30 p.m. with a live orchestra, period narration, and breathtaking lighting design—all integral to the illusion that transforms performers into static works of art in motion.
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The Pageant is nothing less than a monumental community undertaking. More than 1,200 hopefuls audition annually, and roughly 500 volunteers are selected to serve as onstage models, backstage crew, costumers, and makeup artists. Together, they contribute over 60,000 volunteer hours to realize each season’s show. The age range of cast members spans from four to late eighties, emphasizing the multigenerational spirit that defines the production.
The inspiration for the Pageant dates back to 1933, when local artist Lolita Perine initiated the concept of living pictures as part of the Festival of Arts. Early iterations evolved under Roy Ropp’s direction into the high-caliber production that became the Pageant of the Masters in 1935. Since then, with only brief suspensions during World War II and the 2020 COVID shutdown, it has remained an enduring fixture of California culture.
This year’s focus on California as an artistic muse reflects not only the state’s rich visual legacy—but also regional pride in its museums, natural landscapes, and cultural diversity. Pageant director Diane Challis Davy worked closely with museum partners to create scenes that are both historically evocative and emotionally resonant. Audiences have already praised the production for its immersive scale and thoughtful curation.
A ticket to the Pageant grants unlimited access to the Festival of Arts grounds, which feature over 140 local and regional artists selling paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, and more. From early evening into the night, visitors can enjoy live concerts, art workshops, dessert pairings, fashion shows, and interactive exhibitions before the amphitheater doors open.
Special programming this summer includes Battle of the Arts competition on July 20 and a runway fashion show featuring couture designs made entirely from recycled materials on August 10. The final weekend of the Festival leads up to the California Dreamin’ gala on August 23, which will feature performances by Jack Mack and the Heart Attack and a Pageant introduction by actor Jason Ritter.
For those planning to attend, performances begin precisely at 8:30 p.m. under the stars. The show lasts about 90 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Children under age four are not permitted, and all patrons must maintain silence during the show. Many guests recommend bringing binoculars to better appreciate facial expressions and costume details onstage. Evenings can be cool along the coast, so attendees are advised to wear a sweater and consider lap blankets for comfort.
Parking is available at several city lots within easy walking distance; visitors can check local signage or the official Festival website for details and pricing.
The Pageant is more than an art show—it’s a deeply rooted tradition that reflects Laguna Beach’s commitment to creative expression. The Festival of Arts organization, a nonprofit entity, continues to support arts education and scholarships year-round in the community. The Pageant’s broad appeal draws not only local residents but audiences from across the U.S. and beyond, helping to sustain Laguna Beach as a recognized cultural destination.
With its nearly century-long history and unwavering artistic ambition, the Pageant of the Masters remains unmatched globally. As the 92nd season unfolds this summer, it reaffirms its place as one of America’s most imaginative and interactive cultural events—a spectacle that literally brings art to life under the summer night sky.