Enchanting stories and music will light up Queen Mary 2 with special shows from London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and performances featuring students and faculty from The Juilliard School.  The separate events continue through November on Transatlantic Crossings, sailing from New York to Southampton, England, via Halifax, Nova Scotia. 

These returning additions to Cunard Line’s entertainment and award-winning enrichment programme further enhance the 10th anniversary celebration for Queen Mary 2 in 2014.

The graduate company from RADA, one of the most famous acting schools in the world, will present specially edited versions of renowned plays and adaptations of great literary works.  Each show lasts no more than an hour and includes classics such as “Hamlet,” “Arabian Nights” and “Pride and Prejudice.”  Additionally, interactive workshops will invite guests to explore storytelling in their daily lives.

The Juilliard School Jazz Series will treat guests to the best in contemporary and classic jazz performed by students and faculty from the prestigious education institution in New York.  This exclusive partnership will introduce guests to emerging world-class musical talent.

“The elite, unique abilities of the Juilliard and RADA performers will continue to delight our guests and showcase Cunard’s rich tradition of celebrating the arts,” said David Dingle, CEO for Cunard Line.  “These two lively partnerships give guests exclusive experiences they won’t forget as they take in the engaging on board entertainment programming.”

RADA performances are scheduled during the 21 July, 20 August and 8 October westbound Crossings.

The Juilliard School members will perform during the 28 July, 27 August, 27 September, 28 October and 19 November eastbound Crossings.

For nearly 175 years, Cunard Line’s Transatlantic Crossing has offered sophisticated travellers a rich range of elegance and entertainment. In addition to the Juilliard and RADA events, each Crossing aboard Queen Mary 2 features a series of Royal Nights themed balls on the largest dance floor at sea in the Queens Room; and the Royal Court Theatre presents West End-style musical revues and guest performers.