Cunard has announced its new 2027 entertainment programme, with the return of four acclaimed event voyages aboard Queen Mary 2, alongside a new series of exclusive entertainment offerings.
The 2027 programme has been developed in collaboration with some of the world's leading cultural organisations and brings together theatre, ballet, classical music and literature. Guests will be able to enjoy outstanding performances and workshops, as well as meet and admire world-renowned artists.
In partnership with the Olivier Awards, Theatre at Sea will return with a programme inspired by the upcoming awards season. This will be the second year in which Cunard serves as Headline Partner of the prestigious ceremony named after the late actor and director Laurence Olivier.
Cunard has been a leader in the passenger shipping industry since 1840. The Cunard experience is built around world-class enrichment programmes and exceptional White Star Service. From its collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, to distinguished guest speakers and award-winning Broadway and West End theatre productions, every detail is meticulously curated to create an unforgettable experience.
From 16 to 23 July 2027, Dance the Atlantic, in partnership with the English National Ballet, will offer guests the opportunity to enjoy performances by internationally renowned dancers, as well as lectures and workshops providing a unique insight into the world of ballet.
From 1 to 8 October 2027, Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra will return for their 18th year, giving guests the opportunity to experience exceptional classical music performances conducted by the acclaimed conductor Inglis. Guests will also be able to attend lectures and Q&A sessions, as well as take part in rehearsals ahead of a special performance alongside the orchestra.
The Transatlantic Crossing, from 20 to 27 October 2027, will celebrate the best of theatre through exclusive performances and behind-the-scenes insights.
Literature Festival at Sea will take place from 2 to 9 December 2027, bringing together leading authors, journalists and commentators for a week of lectures, discussions and literary events. The programme will be curated by the team behind The Times and the Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival.
Entertainment has always been fundamental to the Cunard experience, explains Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, and the 2027 programme brings together world-renowned cultural partners in a way that only the company can offer. It therefore represents a unique opportunity to engage with the arts in a way that simply cannot be experienced elsewhere.
Alongside these event voyages, Cunard will introduce a new permanent programme of artistic performances aboard selected cruises on Queen Mary 2, Queen Anne, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.
Through this programme, Cunard will bring award-winning theatre companies and acclaimed artists aboard selected cruises, presenting musicals, literary adaptations, historical dramas and one-person shows. These performances will be complemented by workshops, recitals and storytelling experiences. From productions inspired by celebrated cultural figures to interpretations of literary classics, this represents Cunard's distinctive approach to entertainment at sea.
Among the highlights are The Truman Capote Talk Show, an award-winning portrait of the celebrated writer; The Essence of Audrey, a new biographical production inspired by the life of Audrey Hepburn, who was famously a Cunard traveller; Frozen Love: A Buckingham Nicks Story, which tells the story of the early relationship between Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham; An Afternoon Stroll with Hilaire Belloc; and A Ghost Among the Living.
Lucia Angeli
