World Premier Alert: 'Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego' Debuts at Palm Springs International Film Festival 2026 – Uncovering California's Indigenous Legacy

The Story Behind the Screen: From Fiction to Forgotten Truths

As the home of America's oldest outdoor play, the Ramona Bowl Amphitheater is thrilled to announce the world premiere of the captivating documentary Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego. Set to screen on January 3, 2026, at the prestigious Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF), this film dives deep into the real history behind our beloved Ramona Pageant. Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Jason Sklaver, it stars our very own Eli Santana – the punk musician and actor who brings Alessandro to life on our stage.

Every spring, thousands flock to Hemet, California, for the Ramona Pageant – a century-old tradition held in our natural 5,000-seat amphitheater. Inspired by Helen Hunt Jackson's 1884 novel Ramona, the play has shaped California's cultural identity while highlighting injustices against Native Americans. But what lies beneath the romance? Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego follows Eli Santana as he uncovers the harrowing real events, including the 1883 murder of Cahuilla man Juan Diego by settler Sam Temple.

Filmed during our 100th anniversary in 2023, the documentary reveals astonishing discoveries: a rare wax cylinder recording of Temple's confession, found in museum archives, and the re-recording of Ramona Lubo's lost testimony by her great-granddaughter. Eli, channeling his hardcore punk roots from bands like Holy Grail and Huntress, composes "The Ballad of Juan Diego" – a powerful song that reframes the myth for modern audiences. From remote mountain crime scenes with Cahuilla Bird Singers to heartfelt gatherings with descendants, this 1-hour 59-minute feature blends history, music, and personal identity.

Meet the Visionary Team

Jason Sklaver, an Emmy-nominated director with credits including ESPN's 30 for 30 "Revolution in the Ring" and the Emmy-nominated Fear of a Black Quarterback, brings his expertise to this project. "The centenary of the play provided an entry point into the larger Ramona story," Sklaver shares in his director's statement. Produced by Tawney Sklaver, with cinematography by Kyle Safieh and editing by Peregrine Beckman, the film features key cast members like Alice Holmes, Duane Minard, and Dydia DeLyser.

Eli Santana's journey is at the heart: As Alessandro in our pageant, he explores his Native heritage, listening to Temple's chilling audio while the actor portraying him plays the role. The result? A film that honors Indigenous voices, from Bird Songs sung for millennia to contemporary calls for justice.

Why This Premiere Matters for Ramona Bowl Fans

This documentary isn't just a movie – it's an extension of the Ramona Pageant experience. Shot amid our rehearsals and performances, it spotlights the cultural significance of our amphitheater and the ongoing story of Native resilience. As we gear up for our 103rd season on April 18-19, 25-26, and May 2-3, 2026, Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego reminds us why this tale endures: to keep Native American history alive until oppression is truly past.

Excited? Catch the premiere at PSIFF, then join us live in Hemet! Secure your seats now with our 20% early bird special – use code JUANDIEGO20 at checkout on ramonabowl.com. Tickets are selling fast for this iconic outdoor drama blending drama, dance, and heritage.

Follow the film's journey on Instagram and Facebook @RamonaAndTheBalladOfJuanDiego, and tag us @RamonaBowl for your Ramona stories. Let's celebrate California's rich history together!

#RamonaPageant #JuanDiegoBallad #PSIFF2026 #IndigenousHistory #EliSantana #CaliforniaDocumentary #HemetEvents #NativeAmericanStories

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Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Completes Major Improvement: Lower Parking Lot Resurfaced

By Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre • October 20, 2025

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the successful completion of a major improvement project: the resurfacing and repair of the lower section of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre parking lot , adjacent to the Little Theatre. This is more than just new asphalt; it's a huge step forward in improving accessibility and safety for everyone who visits our historic venue. We know how much this was needed, and seeing it finished is a massive win for the entire community. A True Team Victory Seeing this project finalized is a testament to the dedication of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Board of Directors and our incredible community partners. This was a challenging task, and the credit for seeing it through belongs squarely to them. We owe our deepest thanks to several key individuals and organizations who made this possible: Lori VanArsdale , whose guidance and persistent efforts were essential. The Gosch Family , for their unmeasurable and unwavering support of the Ramona Bowl and the Hemet community. Al Cordova , for his crucial contributions to getting the work done. Board President Joe Grindstaff and Ramona Bowl acting CEO Chuck Champion also provided the crucial momentum needed to bring this long-standing priority to completion. As President Grindstaff noted, “This project has been a priority for the Board for many years, and seeing it completed is a major milestone for the future of the Bowl. The new lower lot surface drastically improves the experience for our visitors.” We are simply thrilled to have this area ready for use! Whether you're joining us for our upcoming spooky fun or preparing for the next season of Ramona, you can count on a smoother, safer arrival. Thank you to everyone who supports the Ramona Bowl. Your continued enthusiasm allows us to preserve this landmark and keep improving the visitor experience!