Review: Pageant of the Masters

by Gary Fitch

GRF Events Coordinator

On July 16, a group of Leisure World residents traveled to Laguna Beach to experience the 2025 Pageant of the Masters. They were treated to an unforgettable evening of art, music and theatrical illusion.

Before the main performance began, guests explored the Festival of Arts grounds. The juried fine art show featured paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture by Southern California artists. The setting offered a relaxed, open-air environment where visitors could chat with artists, enjoy live music, and either purchase snacks on-site or settle in with a picnic brought from home.

As the sun set and the audience gathered inside the outdoor amphitheater, the excitement built. When the lights dimmed, the show opened with a quiet reveal. A seemingly still painting turned out to be a living tableau composed of real performers. The signature feature of the Pageant of the Masters is its recreations of classical and modern artworks using live actors, dramatic lighting, detailed costuming, and custom-built sets. Each reveal was met with audible gasps and applause.

This year’s theme, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” showcases artworks drawn from museums across the state. The program includes pieces by Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and other renowned artists. A light narrative thread follows a young woman exploring California’s art museums, providing modern transitions between each scene. A live orchestra performs throughout the evening, creating a rich musical backdrop that enhances the visual experience.

One of the most memorable moments came when the audience was shown how a tableau is assembled in real time. From the careful placement of performers to the final lighting reveal, the demonstration highlighted the precision and collaboration behind each illusion.

At the close of the show, a projected video displayed production credits, reminding guests of the many volunteers who contribute each night. These include makeup artists, costumers, set builders, musicians and backstage crew.

Due to the enthusiastic response to the first trip, a second outing is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 20. Tickets are $95 per person and include round-trip bus transportation. The bus will depart Leisure World at 6 p.m., with check-in beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Residents who missed the first performance, or those who want to see it again, are encouraged to sign up soon. For more information, contact the Recreation Office at 562-431-6586, ext. 2476.

The GRF will conduct a second bus trip to the Pageant of the Masters on Aug. 20. Tickets are on sale now in the Recreation Office.

Residents on a recent GRF bus trip to the Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach.