CROONING SOON UNDER THE MOON
Picture this: you’re sprawled on grass under a canopy of stars, wine in hand, while Michael Feinstein conducts a full orchestra just yards away. Behind him, actual peacocks strut across the stage like they own the place. This isn’t a fever dream, it’s Moonlight Melodies: An Evening with the Crooners, presented by the Pasadena POPS this Saturday July 12, 2025, at the LA County Arboretum. Feinstein and two magnificent soloists will channel the ghosts of Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and Bobby Darin, delivering “Sway,” “Unforgettable,” “Beyond the Sea,” and “Come Fly with Me” with the kind of swagger that made these songs legendary.
Joining Feinstein will be Maude Maggart, an acclaimed cabaret singer. Maude has gained a loyal following and critical acclaim, performing in cabarets, theaters, and concert halls across the United States and Europe. Notably in New York City at Cafe Carlyle, Feinstein’s at The Regency, and her longtime yearly engagement at The Oak Room of The Algonquin Hotel.
Maude MaggartAlso joining Feinstein will be Nick Ziobro. A big band singer who has performed at other venues all over the United States, including Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Birdland, and the Kennedy Center.
Nick ZiobroThe 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 Michael Feinstein singing “Take Me to the Moon” while eucalyptus trees rustle overhead.
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.
Tables with white linens are available for an additional fee, and the lawn spots offer great fun and atmosphere. Just remember it sometimes 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 at the Santa Anita racetrack for $20 (cash only) including shuttle service. Parking directions and passes are at the Pasadena Pops website.
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.
Plus, you’ll experience Feinstein and two other great singers performing while those peacocks add their own theatrical flair to the evening. You don’t have to beyond the sea to find such a perfect combination.
Saturday, June 21 • Gates 5:30pm, Show 7:30pm • LA County Arboretum
tickets and info at Pasadena POPS
