CALL OF THE

Arts al fresco: Whether wildlife, weather or other factors, outdoor performances have special considerations.

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BY LIBBY SLATE /

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE a peacock’s call to add even more sparkle to an evening of Mancini, Minnelli or Bernstein.

That’s what Michael Feinstein discovered as principal pops conductor of the Pasadena Pops. Launching his conducting career with the orchestra a decade ago, the singer-pianist learned to adjust to the presence at concerts of the colorful—and vocal—peacocks that strut the grounds of the Pops’ home, the Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia.

“They’re very musical,” Feinstein says. “People absolutely love the peacocks, and the peacocks interact in different ways, different nights. Sometimes they’re very interactive with people ... and it’s always fun to hear what musical selections they’ll decide to accompany. They create great merriment in the audience [and] make the Arboretum more of a party atmosphere.”

Peacocks are but one of numerous elements that set apart outdoor performances from their indoor counterparts—for performers, production and tech teams, and