The much-anticipated Pageant of the Masters, a signature event of the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, is back for its 92nd season. Kicking off on July 5, 2025, and running through August 29, 2025, the Pageant brings to life some of the world’s most iconic artworks in an extraordinary way—by recreating them in a live, theatrical format with real actors. This year’s theme, “Art Through the Ages,” delves into the vast spectrum of art history, from ancient Egyptian murals to the works of modern artists.
What Is the Pageant of the Masters?
The Pageant of the Masters is unlike any other art event. This renowned performance features the recreation of famous works of art—paintings, sculptures, and other visual masterpieces—using real people as the subjects, set against meticulously crafted backgrounds. Through a process known as “living pictures,” the actors are transformed into vivid, still representations of famous pieces of art, offering audiences a chance to experience these works in an entirely new, live way.
The performances are enhanced by a live orchestra, professional narration, and stunning lighting effects, which collectively create an immersive and memorable experience for attendees. The performances take place in an outdoor amphitheater at the Festival of Arts grounds, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Laguna Beach landscape, making the event even more unique.
This Year’s Theme: ‘Art Through the Ages’
For 2025, the Pageant of the Masters has chosen a theme that spans the evolution of art across millennia. The show’s performances will feature iconic artworks from across the centuries, starting with ancient civilizations and culminating in modern artistic movements. Highlights of the show include recreations of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers, and a stunning tribute to Frida Kahlo’s personal and emotive works.
One of the unique features of this year’s event is its ability to blend the classics with contemporary art. The Pageant of the Masters is known for blending traditional artwork with innovative interpretations, and this year’s performance showcases how art has evolved in style, technique, and subject matter throughout history.
A Collaborative Effort: The Heart of the Community
The Pageant of the Masters is not only a testament to the art world but also to the power of community. More than 60,000 hours of volunteer work go into producing the event, with members of the local community volunteering as actors, stagehands, and artists. The festival brings together a diverse range of talent, from amateur actors to professional painters and set designers, who contribute to making each “living picture” as realistic and engaging as possible.
Local residents of Laguna Beach and surrounding areas actively participate in the event, with many locals taking on the role of models and actors. This collaboration fosters a sense of pride and connection within the community, with Laguna Beach residents contributing to a show that draws thousands of visitors from all over the world each year.
Tickets and What to Expect
Tickets for the Pageant of the Masters range from $30 to $100 depending on seating and the night of the performance, with discounts available for groups and students. The show runs nightly from July 5 to August 29, and each performance lasts about 90 minutes. Visitors can also explore the Festival of Arts, which showcases hundreds of artists exhibiting their work in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and more.
For art lovers visiting Southern California, the Pageant of the Masters remains one of the most unique and captivating events on the calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong art enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of fine art, this event offers something truly special.
