BROADWAY STARS UNDER THE STARS
If you’ve ever wanted to hear Michael Feinstein conduct an orchestra while a pulchritude of peacocks prance in the background, you’re in for one of LA’s most delightfully surreal summer experiences. The Pasadena POPS is back Jun 21, 2025, at the LA County Arboretum with their annual Broadway night, and honestly? It gets better every year.
Michael Feinstein conducting the Pasadena POPS
This year’s lineup–Broadway Legends from Gershwin to Sondheim–reads like someone’s Broadway fever dream. Michael Feinstein, the expert on Broadway and the American songbook, is bringing Broadway stars Liz Callaway (you know, the voice of Anastasia in the animated movie) and Joshua Henry, who burned up the stage in Hamilton and Carousel. Larry Blank‘s conducting some pieces too, which is exciting if you’re into orchestrations (his three Tony nominations speak for themselves).
Larry Blank
The setlist jumps around in the best possible way. Expect Gershwin’s “Strike Up the Band” right alongside selections from Hamilton, Wicked and Into the Woods because a Broadway evening requires Sondheim and Schwartz. It’s the kind of eclectic mix that keeps your 16 year-old theater kid happy while your parents hum along to “Hello, Dolly!”.
Liz Callaway
The Arboretum creates a unique concert experience. You’re sitting on grass next to a lagoon where swans live, watching world class musicians perform under string lights. The combination works beautifully. The acoustics are excellent (big LED screens help if you’re further back), and there’s something special about hearing “Send in the Clowns” while eucalyptus trees rustle overhead.
Pasadena POPS Orchestra
The orchestra itself is exceptional. Concertmaster Aimee Kreston has played with Europe’s best orchestras, and she makes the violin sing in ways that remind you why people fell in love with music. Principal Flutist Heather Clark worked on the Frozen soundtrack (yes, that one) and Principal French horn player James Thatcher‘s resume includes Jurassic Park, Forrest Gump, and Titanic. When they dig into a showtune, it sounds like the recording you remember, only richer and more alive.
Pasadena POPS at LA County Arboretum
Tables with white linens are available for an additional fee, and the lawn spots offer great fun and atmosphere. Just remember it gets chilly once the sun goes down, and the sprinklers come on after the show, so take your belongings with you. Gates open at 5:30, which gives you time to claim your spot and grab dinner. You can pre-order from their catering menu (tasty options available), or do what most people do and pack a picnic. If you aren’t sitting at a table, bring low chairs (the kind that respect everyone’s view). Wine is welcome. Parking fills up because the event is popular. Arrive early for the best spots. Parking is available in the mall across the street with free shuttles available.
Joshua Henry
Outdoor classical concerts offer wonderful variety and surprises. The POPS has perfected the formula: talented musicians who bring joy to their performances, songs people love to hear, and a setting that transports you beyond the everyday bustle of LA.
If you’re the type who gets emotional listening to Wicked or find yourself humming Hamilton tunes in the shower, this evening is made for you. If Broadway is new territory, you’ll likely discover something wonderful. There’s something about live music under an open sky that connects with people in beautiful ways.
Plus, you’ll experience Tony nominees performing while those peacocks add their own theatrical flair to the evening. Only in LA could you find such a perfect combination.
Saturday, June 21 • Gates 5:30pm, Show 7:30pm • LA County Arboretum
tickets and info at Pasadena POPS
