In the Grand Cunard Tradition

In the Grand Cunard Tradition, Entertainment Aboard Queen Victoria Will Strike a Visual High Note

The highest calibre theatrical productions and the only private boxes at sea make Cunard’s newest ocean liner a natural choice for theatre aficionados

As Queen Victoria prepares to enter service in December 2007, a team of 16 classically trained singers and dancers is already rehearsing four major theatrical productions that will form the core of the ocean liner’s inaugural entertainment schedule. From concept to curtain, Cunard will have spent nearly two years crafting sophisticated shows that engage guests with a striking balance of opulence and innovation.

“What Cunard presents is on a par with the highest calibre of world class productions,” said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line, referencing the line’s legacy of premium onboard entertainment. “From the set decor and talent to the beautiful costumes by renowned theatrical designers, the work reflects a deep understanding of our guests’ cultural intellect. Our investment in entertainment is considerable and includes every aspect of the experience, from the sight lines in the theatre to the hand-selected creative team.”

To ensure that the theatre venue is as extravagant as the shows themselves, painstaking detail went into designing the Royal Court Theatre, a three-tiered venue unsurpassed in form and function. “We looked at several theatres and were inspired by the spectacular spaces designed by noted English theatrical architect Frank Matcham, whose dramatic multi-tiered spaces made him one of the most prolific theatrical architects of all time,” said Coordinating Architect Giacomo Mortola. “In every sense, the Royal Court Theatre captures that same feeling of grandeur and luxury.”

Among the theatre’s most distinguishing features is the collection of sixteen private boxes — the first-ever at sea — that frame the stage and afford 48 lucky guests exclusive seating from which to enjoy the performances. Seating from two to eight guests each depending on the size, the boxes are furnished with graceful armchairs and cocktail tables. Individual-sized Veuve Clicquot bottles and sweet or savory treats (depending on the show time) are served by white-gloved theatre ushers. Following the performance, guests have an opportunity to meet the cast backstage.