Oceania launches top-notch entertainment

Oceania is launching a series of top-notch concerts and lectures, beginning with a shipboard program featuring Andrea McArdle, the original Annie on Broadway, that passengers can attend for a fee.

I smell trend: You’ll remember Carnival recently announced its’ Carnival Live Concerts series, where passengers can see shipboard performances by such superstars as Jennifer Hudson – tickets running $20 to $150.

Oceania’s new entertainment program, “Life in the Theater_(pdf),” kicks off with McArdle appearing on the 1,250-passenger Riviera, embarking October 29 on a 10-day cruise from Athens to Monte Carlo, with port calls in Greece, Turkey, Italy and France.
They will be able to attend eight special events including a cocktail party, five sessions of “song and stories,” and one private full-performance by the actress. There will also be a complimentary performance open to all guests – with those who purchase the package receiving preferred seating.Passengers who buy an entertainment package, priced at $375 per person, will get more than quality time with the Broadway star.

Oceania officials said Broadway entertainment is right up there with fine wine and gourmet cuisine in the list of indulgences enjoyed by Oceania’s guests.

Of the new program, the line’s president Kunal S. Kamlani said, “It provides our guests with the unique opportunity to enjoy up-close and intimate encounters with notable Broadway icons, and we are thrilled to host Andrea McArdle as our first star.”

For her part, McArdle says, “I’ve always loved the sea. The allure, romance, adventure, everything about it makes me feel excited and free, almost like performing on stage.”