By Ted AYALA

One of the biggest events of the year is about to arrive. An all-day festival of music and art is coming to the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 27. The world premiere of a new musical, “The Real Love,” created by an all-star team of composers and lyricists and starring some of Broadway’s most brilliant talent. Capping off the event will be American folk-rock icon Don McLean who will be playing a selection of his most beloved songs.

Supreme Master Television, an international cable station originating in the Far East, has organized the festivities in commemoration of its fifth anniversary. “The Real Love” also honors the work of one of Asia’s most revered spiritual teachers and humanitarians, Suma Ching Hai.

Vietnamese by birth, Hai is the founder and leader of the Quan Yin Method, which has attracted Buddhist followers from around the world. She has also been a partisan on behalf of animal rights and has loudly advocated the benefits of living a vegan lifestyle. To this end she has opened an international chain of vegan and vegetarian restaurants known as Loving Hut – one of which is located in Alhambra.

Hai has also been recognized for her humanitarian efforts, including awards and recognitions presented by several U. S. governors.

Inspired by the teachings and poetry of Hai, “The Real Love” hinges its plot on the love and life of a young woman and her beloved. At the crux of the drama is the heartbreaking decision she is faced with: remain with the man she loves or surrender everything in pursuit of a higher calling. Matching the high sentiment of the plot are the creative efforts of some of the most acclaimed composers of film and stage: Bill Conti, Al Kasha, Doug Katsaros, Don Pippin, David Shire – recipients of several Emmy, Oscar and Grammy awards.

Appearing in the evening is Don McLean, whose songs have become part of pop music canon and have earned repeated radio-play and fame. Showcasing songs from all across his career, including his classic “American Pie,” McLean’s concert closes out the celebration in sparkling fashion.

Also on display will be the art and writings of Hai. Her work will open the event and the celebrity red carpet exhibition. Complimentary vegan dinners await all guests after the concert.

Beginning at noon and ending at night, “The Real Love” celebration promises to be one of the year’s most exciting events. For ticket information, call (626) 623-2225 or go online to www.thereallovemusic.com.

  Ted Ayala