Cunard unveils landmark entertainment programme on 2026 Transatlantic Crossings

Cunard will celebrate a landmark year in 2026 with every Transatlantic Crossing featuring an expanded programme of world-class entertainment.

London Theatre at Sea (22 May)
- In partnership with the Olivier Awards, curated by Julian Bird OBE.
- Features performances, singalongs, behind-the-scenes talks.
- Exclusive Oliviers in Concert celebrating 50 years of the Olivier Awards with the Royal Court Theatre orchestra.
- Gala evening with red carpet moments and photo opportunities with a real Olivier Award.

The Constant Wife (29 May)
- Royal Shakespeare Company’s new production, produced by David Pugh.
- Written by Laura Wade, starring Kara Tointon, with original music by Jamie Cullum.
- Debuts at sea during its UK tour.

Anthony Inglis & National Symphony Orchestra (5 September)
- Two evening concerts aboard Queen Mary 2.
- Guest choir participation with rehearsals throughout the week.
- Talks and Q&A sessions with the maestro.

450th Transatlantic Crossing
- The 450 Club: Celebrate the Transatlantic by Immersive Octopus.
- Revived Ocean Times newspaper, behind-the-scenes tours, maritime historian talks.
- Gala Dinner with performances celebrating Cunard’s 186 years of ocean travel.

Literature Festival at Sea (28 November)
- Curated by The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival.
- Authors, journalists, historians, critics hosting Q&As, themed events, and book signings.

Entertainment Residencies
- Musicals, comedy, opera, immersive theatre.
- Highlights 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 West End comedy The Last Laugh.

Celebrity Speakers Across the Fleet
- Over 680 personalities including Celia Imrie, Dame Floella Benjamin, Sir Tony Robinson, and Sir Andrew Strauss.

Katie McAlister, Cunard’s President, calls this the most extensive enrichment programme ever offered in a single year of crossings, blending theatre, music, literature, and cultural storytelling at sea.