Pageant of the Masters: Only Make Believe

I went to the Festival of the Arts in Laguna Beach, California for the first time last night. I was there to see "Pageant of the Masters: Only Make Believe" and had no idea what to expect of the performance. I avoided reading about the show prior to going, in order to experience the night with untainted eyes and ears. I was really surprised how much I ended up liking the event.

Upon arriving, I was impressed with the collection of artists exhibiting their work in the Festival of the Arts patio area. Many contemporary "award-winning" artists displayed their paintings, illustrations, jewelry, sculpture and various art works. A ceramics artist demonstrated wheel throwing, while in another corner of the 'courtyard', print artists demonstrated printing techniques. This was among the few things I saw while I strolled around the patio waiting for "Only Make Believe" to begin. The venue was packed but comfortable enough for me to walk around and view the many artists' works on display. Although many images come to mind, there were a few artists which really stood out: Bradford J. Salamon, Tom Swimm and David Milton. You can find participating artists by clicking here! The art work was an unexpected treat, separate from the "performance" I was there to see but equally as enjoyable.

When the time came to enter the Irvine Bowl we were lead by MANY helpful volunteers until we arrived at our seats. As soon as the show began we were treated to a wonderful performance of colorful paintings, sculptures and illustrations recreated by the performers which posed in each setting. It's live art but most importantly it's tastefully recreated. I think the less I say about the event the better you will experience it for yourselves. Photographs are not allowed and although I was a little upset about that I'm slowly getting over it. One of the highlights of the event was the orchestra which accompanied the performance. Excellent musicians brought the experience to a whole other level.

The performances run nightly from July 7th- August 31, 2011. If you decide to visit make sure to take something warm to cover up with because the venue is outdoors and it can get rather chilly in the late hours of Laguna Beach. I also recommend bringing binoculars however binoculars, blankets and seat cushions can be rented out. Even if you are lucky enough to get great seats the binoculars will help to study each backdrop like studying a painting up-close, I highly recommend them!

Some of the master artists whose work was recreated were: Henri Rousseau: Le Rêve (The Dream), Alphonse Mucha: Sarah Bernhardt Poster Illustrations, John P. Falter:
Trick-Or-Treating in the Burbs and Salvador Dali: The Sacrament of the Last Supper. Again these are only a few of the 19 recreated scenes.


You should definitely check out this photo gallery of behind the scenes of Pageant of the Masters.

Festival of the Arts