In The Arts

Pageant to hold auditions

Pageant of the Masters will hold auditions for its 2014 show “The Art Detective” on Jan. 4, 5 and 9.

The group is searching for men, women and children of all ages and sizes for its upcoming summer of tableaux vivants.

The sole requirement? Applicants need to be able stand still for 90 seconds.

“Over 500 volunteers, both onstage and behind-the-scenes, are needed to put on the show,” director Diane Challis Davy said in a release. “Everyone has a great time backstage and many return year after year to take part in this one-of-a-kind performance. The pageant just simply wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers!”

Volunteers are also needed for the wardrobe, makeup and headdress departments, among other positions.

Casting will be held at the Irvine Bowl Park, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, from 7 to 9 p.m. Jan. 4 and 9, and 2 to 5 p.m. Jan. 5.

“The Art Detective” will be presented at 8:30 p.m. from July 9 to Aug. 30.

For more information, call (949) 494-3663 or visit https://www.foapom.com.

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Gala raises record amount

The Laguna Playhouse raised a record $100,000 at its Motown gala, “Stop in the Name of Fun,” on Nov. 23.

Theater supporters turned out in droves to the Resort at Pelican Hill for a reception, dinner and live and silent auctions. . The annual event also featured a performance by the Laguna Playhouse conservatory students and entertainment by the cast of “A Christmas Memory.”

“We are enormously grateful to the many generous Motown gala sponsors and underwriters; their support enabled us to exceed our financial goals,” Playhouse Director of Development Holly Wisneski wrote in a release. “And most importantly, introduce many new people to the joys of the Playhouse.”

For more information, visit https://www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

— Rhea Mahbubani