Pasadena Unified Launched All-Star Year Program

The initiative brings hundreds of students together for the Rose Parade and a new stage production.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Secondary Education

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a brass trumpet and stage curtain, representing a student-led performing arts initiative. — Pasadena Unified School District has unveiled its All-Star Year program, an initiative featuring an student-led musical and a competitive parade marching band. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Pasadena Unified School District has launched its All-Star Year program, featuring an All-Star Band for the upcoming Rose Parade and a major student production of Les Misérables. Sponsored by the Pasadena Educational Foundation, the initiative highlights student talent from across the district.

Why it matters

The program serves as a demonstration of community investment in student development. By engaging more than 350 students, the district aims to showcase the artistic capabilities of young people in the Pasadena area.

The All-Star Band features 121 musicians, 20 color guard members, and 12 dancers selected from four high schools. Organizers expect 6,000 total attendees for the Les Misérables production, including 3,000 students at two scheduled matinees.

The players

Pasadena Unified School District

This is a public school district serving the communities of Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre.

Pasadena Educational Foundation

This organization supports the district by funding and sponsoring specialized student programs.

Pasadena Playhouse

This is a regional theater company that is collaborating with the district on the student production.

The details

More than 350 students from four high schools will fill all roles on stage, in the orchestra, and on the technical crew for the musical. The Visual and Performing Arts Department is producing the musical in association with the Pasadena Playhouse, while the band secured its spot after auditioning against global marching bands.

September 3, 2025: Students were notified of the Rose Parade band selection.
March 2025: Students and staff produced the audition video for the Rose Parade.
May 2026: The district and Pasadena Playhouse announced the musical title.
January 1, 2027: The All-Star Band will perform in the Rose Parade.
February 17-21, 2027: The district will stage Les Misérables at Pasadena High School.

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Roadmap

This project continues the established pattern of biennial All-Star Musical productions hosted by the Pasadena Unified School District's Visual and Performing Arts Department. It follows the district's previous tradition of participating in high-profile events like the Rose Parade.

Residents in the Pasadena area can expect increased student involvement in public arts events throughout the academic year. Families should monitor district communications for updates on ticket availability for the February musical performances.

The takeaway

The All-Star Year program illustrates how school districts can leverage community partnerships to provide students with high-level performance opportunities. By balancing local musicals with national events like the Rose Parade, students gain experience in professional-grade production environments.