On Saturday, August 23, California Dreamin’: A Benefit for the Arts brought together world-class art, music, and community in support of the arts. Guests enjoyed an evening at the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, followed by a concert by legendary soul and R&B band Jack Mack and the Heart Attack. The night culminated in a special performance of the Pageant of the Masters’ “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” a production that earned glowing praise from audiences throughout the summer. Beloved actor and Matlock star Jason Ritter served as the evening’s celebrity guest host, introducing the unforgettable performance.
The festivities kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with red carpet arrivals, where celebrity guests and festivalgoers showcased their breezy elegance and posed for photos at on-site photo booths.
On the red carpet, I asked each guest the same question:
What excites you most about being part of this year’s Gold Coast theme, highlighting treasures from California’s great museums?
Julie Hauptmann, Influencer:
The most exciting part is witnessing this incredible, one-of-a-kind display of art. I’m so proud to live in Orange County and to be part of a community that creates such a truly unique and wonderful artistic experience.
Vickie Lamb and Tom Lamb
What excites me the most this year is that my grandson is in a tableau. He is eight years old. He’s on the green cast, and he’s performing tonight.
Ryan Manno, Co-host of the EllenK Morning Show on KOST 103.5 Los Angeles
You know, it reminds me of going to Disneyland—like when you take Soarin’ Around the World, and then sometimes they switch it to Soarin’ Over California. There’s just nothing like experiencing something that’s so deeply connected to where you’re from. Seeing the treasures, the people, and the art that reflect your own home makes it incredibly special. It’s wonderful to come every year and see art from around the world, but there’s something truly meaningful about having it so close to home.
Ginger Chan, KTLA’s Traffic Anchor, News Reporter and part of i-Heart Radio’s “On-Air with Ryan Seacrest”
Being born and raised in Southern California, this is one of those themes I feel like we’ve been waiting for. I love the traditional themes, but there’s something extra special about feeling personally invested—because it’s California. It makes it even more meaningful. It’s also exciting for my kids to be here, because they have a real connection to it too, even if they don’t fully realize it yet. That connection is there, and that makes the experience even more special.
Jason Ritter, (Host), Matlock for CBS, Netflix/s Raising Dion, HBO Max’s upcoming show in 2026 “Lantern”
Well the Gold Coast is very meaningful to me. I was born in California. I love California so much. And so I can’t wait to see what the artworks are that they’ve chosen for this incredible theme. I am just excited to be back. I haven’t seen it since that first time, but it always stayed with me. As soon as I heard about it, this time around, I got so excited to jump in.
Anita Mangels, Festival of Arts Board of Director
How does the Gold Coast theme influence volunteer engagement?
Oh, volunteer engagement is consistent regardless of the theme, but because the theme is California centric this year,it’s pretty special for all of us since we’re all Californians who participate in the pageant.
Discover more from POPBUFF
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
