Guide To The 2015 Pageant Of The Masters

About Pageant of the Masters

The phrase "life imitates art" couldn't be closer to the truth when it come to the Pageant of the Masters Festival of Arts. The one-of-a-kind festival takes classic and contemporary works of art and recreates them using real people in what is known as "living art." Hundreds of volunteers, a professional orchestra, sophisticated lighting design and intricate sets create a life size stage show identical to each work of art presented. This year's theme, "The Pursuit of Happiness" brings the whimsical to life through ancient and modern works of art.

But there's more to the Pageant of the Masters than this spectacular stage show. There are concerts, workshops, wine tastings, art tours and many other events you won't want to miss. If you've never been, here's your guide to some must sees while you're there.

Get into the groove with award-winning jazz music and living legends jazz artists as they perform as part of the "Concerts on the Green" series. The perfect California weather makes any concert in the outdoor gallery a memorable experience.

July 11: The Stray Cats' Lee Rocker
July 25: Ellis Hall Presents Ray, Motown & Beyond
Aug 8: Chieli Minucci and Special EFX with special guest Marion Meadows
Aug 22: Russell Ferrante Trio with special guest Bob Mintzer

Fun for everyone, Family Art Day is a kid-centric event that mixes culture with education and fun. A coupon booklet to be redeemed for exciting activities and treats like a marionette show, an "Art Quest" and printmaking encourages participation for even the shiest child.

Chocolate and wine are the perfect accompaniment to an art festival. Learn how to pair the different flavors of XAN chocolate with notes in Kendall Jackson wine by experts in the field. Jazz artists perform throughout the event. There is an admission price for this event of $15.

Schedule of Jazz Performers

July 09: Steve Oliver
July 16: Billy Valentine
July 23:Carol Bach y Rita
July 30: Pretzel Logic
Aug 06: Bill Cantos
Aug 13: Gregg Karukas
Aug 20: Brian Bromberg
Aug 27: Terry Wollman

Limited seating available in reserved section for $25 per person per concert. Includes Festival admission. Call (800) 487-3378.

Fashion is also art and haute couture is always exciting to see. This year marks the seventh year of the Festival Runway Fashion Show. Artists compete using reclaimed, recycled and reused materials to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Celebrity judges and guests critique these unique creations.

The Sunday Afternoon in the Park Music Series offers a wide variety of live music performances from blues to country and Latin pop to string quartets. The park also provides a serene setting for picnics and just a beautiful place to relax.

Sunday Afternoon In The Park Music Series Schedule:

July 12: David Correa and Cascada (World Music)
July 19: Peter Dobson (Blues)
July 26: Laguna Dance Festival
Aug 02: Salty Suites (Country and Bluegrass)
Aug 09: Quattrosound (Latin Pop/Jazz/Classical)
Aug 16: Laguna Dance Festival
Aug 23: Angelica Strings (Classical String Quartet)
Aug 30: Geoffrey Keezer (Pianist) with special guest Gillian Margot

Related: Best Outdoor Concerts In LA This Summer

While vendors will be on the grounds to provide you with sustenance throughout the days, you might want to have a nice sit down lunch or dinner during your wonderful day of culture. Fortunately, two highly recommended restaurants are close to the festival.

Located a short distance from the Pageant of the Masters, Tivoli Terrace has become a dining tradition of sorts for regular pageant attendees. The beautiful fountains, flower garden and stained glass are wonderful works of art themselves, which makes this venue a perfect place to dine during the festival. Normally a wedding and event venue, Tivoli Terrace offers a "summer festival" menu that includes salads, sandwiches and a variety of cuisine. The prices are a little high, but worth it. Reservation are recommended.

Another restaurant close to the Festival of Arts is Gina's Alfresco. Delicious Italian cuisine, along with a diverse menu, makes it a popular choice as a dining option. From pizza and salads to sandwiches and pasta, there's something for everyone at Gina's. Prices are a little steep here as well, but that's the cost of convenience. Fast and friendly service ensure that you will make it to your show and other events on time.

If you're attending the Pageant of the Masters Festival of Art you'll want to take more than a single day to enjoy all that the event has to offer. Whether it's just for a weekend, or maybe a week, you'll need a place to stay. Consider these two popular hotels to make the most of your time in Laguna.

One of the more reasonably priced hotels in the area and conveniently located a lovely 15 minute walk from town is the Art Hotel Laguna Beach. Comfortable rooms, a clean pool and jacuzzi and its location across the street from the beach makes the Art Hotel Laguna Beach a great choice whether you're in town for Pageant of the Masters Festival of Art or simply on holiday.

Located directly on the beach, the Inn at Laguna Beach is a treasure regardless of whatever time of year you stay there. Located less than half a mile from the Pageant of the Masters Festival of Art, the accommodations are inviting and comfortable. When not at the Festival, there are plenty of things to do close to the hotel.

Related: Best Summer Art Festivals In Los Angeles