By Torie Hamilton, Special to the Independent
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and—the pursuit of happiness,” booms narrator Richard Doyle’s rich voice over the dark stage.
A sense of hushed anticipation lays over the seats in the stadium until the curtains open and the lights illuminate one of the famous tableaux vivants, or living pictures, that has made the Pageant of the Masters one of the most anticipated events of summer for Laguna Beach locals and out-of-towners alike since 1933. There are gasps as the crowd takes in the painted set and actors that with stage craft create an illusion of a famous painting that is best understood by attending the performance.
Such will be the scene when the show opens Wednesday, July 8, running nightly for nine weeks on the grounds of the Festival of Arts, which will also exhibit works by 140 artists. A new permanent sign and modernized entrance, designed by Jay Bauer and still under construction, no doubt will be finalized by the opening night.
Earlier this week, 20-year pageant director Diane Challis Davy explained the theme she uses in this year’s production during a presentation for the media.
Doyle’s quote, an excerpt from the Declaration of Independence and foundational to the nation, serves as the pageant’s foundational theme and title, “The Pursuit of Happiness.” Challis Davy seeks to explore the sources of happiness depicted through both ancient and modern art.
“The desire for happiness is integral to being human. Today we share the same basic wants and face the same struggles as our distant ancestors,” Challis Davy said. “And what is art’s role in all this? It reminds us that in every culture and era of history, happiness has been a universal theme and desire.”
This year’s theme will be embodied in 40 paintings, lithographs, sculptures and woodblock prints that come from American, European, Japanese, Indian and African artists. The art dates back as early as 1495, with the “The Last Supper,” which has been featured in all but three performances to date. And it includes a work finished as late as 2012 with the ornate Bengali Indian sculpture, “Durga Puja.” This intricate vision of red and gold figures is made primarily of Styrofoam with some resin molds, according to sculptor Shane Daley.
Late 19th century woodblock prints by Japanese artist Chikanobou bring a unique and captivating aspect to this year’s performance. This form of art honors Japanese regard for nature and the appreciation of the four different seasons. One of Chikanobou’s prints, “Cherry Blossom Viewing,” is displayed above the entrance to the Irvine Bowl, providing a mesmerizing background and photo opportunity.
Japanese dance teacher Miyako Tachibana has been brought in as the choreographer for the on-stage geishas that are depicted in these woodblock prints. Tachibana, who is based in Los Angeles, was featured as a dancer in the 2005 film, “Memoirs of a Geisha.”
Every year around 1,200 people audition for parts in the show, but only 500 are cast as onstage actors or chosen as behind-the-scenes workers and artists. These volunteers contribute more than 60,000 hours in nine weeks to create 54 performances that leave its audiences in awe. With 50 on-stage cast members altogether and ages ranging from 4 years to late 80s, deep bonds are formed, which often results in volunteers who return year after year.
That’s the case for 14-year-old local, Molly Cohn, who is looking forward to her sixth pageant and her role as Betsy Ross in the painting, “Betsy Ross Presenting the Flag.” “You get to make friends and come here every night. It’s just a really cool experience,” Molly said.
In addition to the cast members are the make-up artists behind the scenes, who can take up to 25 minutes to create the faces that are seen on stage, and the costume designers that commit weeks to creating outfits, headpieces and accessories.
Pageant set artists David Cooke, Judith Parker, David Rymar, Shane Daley and Sharon Lamberg commit months to creating the painted and sculpted sets that form the foundation to the scenes. According to painter, David Cooke, painters have 26 weeks to create 24 paintings.
In addition to the behind-the-scenes pageant artists are the 140 exhibiting artists that feature their work on the grounds outside the show. For local landscape painter Susan Hoehn, her first year as an exhibitor brings both excitement and anticipation in meeting other artists and potential patrons.
This year’s pageant is turning to social media with a 30-day #ShareYourHappy sweepstakes. One lucky winner will be granted special VIP access to the pageant and celebrity benefit concert Aug. 29. Visit www.foapom.com/sweepstakes-rules for details.
Advance pageant tickets can be purchased for $15-$230 and will also act as a season pass to the Festival of Arts fine art show. More info: 800 487-3378 or visit www.PageantTickets.com.
Indy intern Torie Hamilton attends Biola University.
