Masq(p)arade!, Santa Barbara’s original progressive performance will be presenting its sixth annual showcase, Friday, Oct. 2 with a lineup of piano-based acts.

The shows will run every 15 minutes, 5:30-8 p.m., on State Street in what is known as the Historic Arts District.

Serving as a kickoff to the city’s seasonal Pianos on State installation, the event, which is free to attend, features a lineup of regional performing artists.

Together, they will deliver a series of imaginative 15-minute shows, with each act staged at a different painted piano along State Street. 

“Every Masq(p)arade! performance is creatively paired with an artist-designed piano, fusing original talent with a playful, masked aesthetic,” organizers said.

The audience is invited to stroll from one piano to the next between sets, following the roving variety show to enjoy the interactive experience as a community.

Organizers encourage audience members to lean into the festive spirit by wearing their own theatrical masks. 

Masq(p)arade! debuted in 2021 as an antidote to pandemic isolation, designed to safely reunite the community outdoors through the power of the arts.

Since its inception, it has become at yearly tradition, pairing live piano accompaniment with a broad spectrum of artistic styles, from opera and flamenco to improv and aerial acrobatics.

“If you like Pianos on State, you’re going to love Masq(p)arade!” said former Santa Barbara Mayor Helene Schneider. “These unforgettable performances brilliantly showcase the immense talent within our community.”

The Masq(p)arade! 2026 lineup and locations follows:
5:30-5:45 p.m.: Santa Barbara Revels at The Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St.


6-6:15 p.m.: Noelle Hadsall, 1235 State St.


6:30-6:45 p.m.: Isaias Audette, 1200 State St.


7-7:15 p.m.: Alissa Musto, 1137 State St.


7:30-7:45 p.m.: La Boheme, Michael Towbes Library Plaza, 40 E. Anapamu St.

For more, visit www.masqparade.org.