All Transatlantic Crossings aboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 are set to feature an expanded entertainment program in 2026, the company said in a press release.
Guests sailing between New York and Southampton can expect what the company says will be its most extensive program ever, marking the fact that the cruise line was selected Headline Partner of the Olivier Awards.
“For more than 185 years, Cunard’s iconic Transatlantic Crossings have been defined by extraordinary journeys and exceptional experiences. In 2026, we’re offering the most extensive enrichment program ever on a single year of crossings, placing world-class entertainment at the heart of every voyage,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.
“From award-winning theatre and classical music to thought-provoking literary conversations, this program reflects our long-standing commitment to celebrating culture at sea. We’re incredibly proud to partner with the Olivier and Tony Awards and to welcome such remarkable talent on board Queen Mary 2.”
London Theatre at Sea in partnership with the Olivier Awards
The West End is coming to the Atlantic thanks to Cunard’s London Theatre at Sea in partnership with the Olivier Awards Event Voyage, curated by Julian Bird.
Guests will get to see performances and musical theatre singalongs on May 22.
Exclusive to the voyage, The Oliviers in Concert will celebrate 50 years of the Olivier Awards in a one-off production with the Royal Court Theatre orchestra.
Guests will also be able to join interactive workshops and attend a gala evening complete with red carpet moments, as well as get a photograph with a real Olivier Award.
The Constant Wife
Royal Shakespeare Company’s new production of The Constant Wife will make its debut at sea on May 29.
The comedy, written by playwright Laura Wade and starring Kara Tointon features original music composed by Britain’s jazz artist, Jamie Cullum.
Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra
On September 5, maestro Anthony Inglis leads the UK’s National Symphony Orchestra for two evening concerts aboard the Queen Mary 2.
Guests can join talks and Q&A sessions and participate in the guest choir for an immersive musical experience at sea.
450th Transatlantic Crossing
“The 450 Club: Celebrate the Transatlantic,” an immersive program created by the theatre company Immersive Octopus, will be available during Queen Mary 2’s 450th Transatlantic Crossing.
Guests will be able to experience moments from Cunard history, including Noël Coward’s early performances and Sir Arthur Rostron’s bravery during the Titanic disaster.
Ocean Times newspaper will be available, as will behind-the-scenes tours, lectures from a maritime historian and a commemorative Gala Dinner.
Literature Festival at Sea
Cunard’s Literature Festival at Sea, departing November 28, brings together authors, journalists, historians and critics to celebrate the written word with Q&A sessions, themed events and book signings.
Entertainment Residencies by Cunard
Exclusive Entertainment Residencies, including musicals, comedy, opera and immersive theatre, will be available on selected Transatlantic Crossings.
Companies and artists performing include Adam Riches’ “Jimmy,” Tim Benzie’s “It’s a Mystery!,” Dyad Productions’ “A Room of One’s Own,” Michael Morpurgo’s “Private Peaceful” and the West End comedy “The Last Laugh.”
Across the fleet, more than 680 speakers from various fields will also take to the stage, including Celia Imrie, Dame Floella Benjamin, Sir Tony Robinson and former England cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss.
