Over 200 fifth-grade students from El Morro and Top of the World Elementary Schools recently participated in a one-of-a-kind behind-the-scenes field trip to the world-famous Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach. This immersive experience offered students an insider’s look at the artistry, collaboration, and technical expertise behind the celebrated “living pictures” production.
Designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for the arts, the visit introduced students to the wide range of creative careers that contribute to producing the Pageant. From painting and sculpting to lighting and costume design, students witnessed firsthand how these diverse disciplines come together to bring each performance to life.
“Providing young students with an up-close look at the artistry and teamwork that goes into the Pageant is incredibly special,” said Sharbie Higuchi, Director of Marketing and PR for Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters. “Our hope is that experiences like this ignite a lifelong appreciation for the arts and open their eyes to the many creative career possibilities that exist, as well as deepen their understanding of Laguna Beach’s artistic legacy.”
The day began with a warm welcome from Pageant Director Diane Challis Davy, who shared the history of the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters, along with their significance to the Laguna Beach community. She spoke about growing up in Laguna Beach, receiving a Festival of Arts scholarship to attend college, volunteering for the Pageant as a student, and ultimately building a lifelong career in the arts through her work with the Pageant. She encouraged students to see themselves as future volunteers, artists, and contributors to this cherished tradition. “Several proud fifth graders even raised their hands to share that they were former or current Pageant volunteer cast members,” added Higuchi.
Students were then divided into smaller groups for an engaging backstage tour, where they heard directly from Pageant professionals about their career journeys, educational backgrounds, and the importance of communication, creativity, and collaboration in their work. Along the way, students explored key areas of the production—including the stage, where they learned about lighting and staging; the costume department; carpentry workshop; makeup department; and scenic painting stations—interacting with artists and technicians actively preparing for the upcoming season. They touched fabrics while learning about costume construction and observed scenic painters and sculptors in action, gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate teamwork that brings each performance to life.
“Our field trip to the Pageant of the Masters was an unforgettable experience,” said Cama Stevens, Visual and Performing Arts Teacher on Special Assignment at El Morro Elementary.
“We were amazed by the intricate set design, precise lighting, and the incredible artistry of the makeup team that transforms live performers into stunning works of art. Learning about the behind-the-scenes collaboration showed us how every detail contributes to the illusion and magic of the performance.”
“This was an incredible opportunity for our fifth graders,” said Sarah Wolsey, K-5 Visual and Performing Arts Teacher on Special Assignment at Top of the World Elementary. “Learning from the talented artists and technicians was both educational and inspiring. It gave our students a deeper appreciation for the arts and the hard work that goes into making each performance come to life. It was an experience that they will remember for years to come.”
Higuchi concluded, “We hope to continue this as an annual tradition and welcome even more students in the future. It’s opportunities like this that plant the seed for the next generation of artists, technicians, and storytellers—and there’s no better place to do that than right here at the Pageant of the Masters.”