In an exciting announcement that's set to redefine entertainment on the high seas, Cunard has revealed that the multi-award-winning West End show "Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)" will make its maritime debut aboard the Queen Anne. This adaptation, which has charmed audiences and critics alike in London's theatre district, is slated to premiere during the British Isles Festival Voyage, embarking on May 24, 2024. This special voyage not only celebrates the timeless tale penned by Jane Austen but also marks the commencement of Queen Anne’s inaugural season with a grand lap of honour around the British Isles, including the ship's official Naming Ceremony.
"Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)" is not your ordinary period drama. Created by the talented Isobel McArthur, the show provides a unique and audacious retelling of one of literature’s most beloved love stories. Brought to Cunard by renowned theatre producer David Pugh, this Olivier Award-winning production for Best Comedy infuses Austen's narrative with a modern twist, delivering a performance that is as innovative as it is entertaining.
What sets this adaptation apart is its perspective—told through the eyes of the servants, the original rom-com is reimagined with karaoke, high energy, and a generous dose of humour. It’s "Pride & Prejudice" as you’ve never seen it before, where the characters who are usually relegated to the background take centre stage, embodying every role from the stoic Mr. Darcy to the vivacious Elizabeth Bennet.
Cunard, a name synonymous with luxury cruising and unparalleled onboard experiences, continues its tradition of pushing boundaries with the introduction of "Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)" to its entertainment roster. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the company's commitment to offering guests unique and enriching experiences that can only be found on a Cunard voyage. This partnership with David Pugh signifies a step forward in the cruise line's endeavour to offer top-tier theatrical productions at sea.
Under the creative guidance of Isobel McArthur, the cast and crew of "Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)" have dedicated themselves to bringing this imaginative retelling to life. McArthur assures that even those who might typically shy away from period dramas will find themselves captivated by this rendition. The show is a testament to the ensemble’s versatility, showcasing their ability to juggle multiple roles with flair and precision.
Guests aboard the Queen Anne can anticipate a theatre experience that marries the elegance and wit of Austen's original with the vibrancy and accessibility of modern storytelling. It’s a celebration of the servants’ narratives, delivered through a dynamic performance that promises laughter, romance, and perhaps a new perspective on the classic novel.
As "Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)" prepares to take its first at-sea audience by storm, guests of the Queen Anne are in for a treat that transcends the conventional cruise entertainment. This show’s maritime premiere signifies not just an evolution of onboard offerings but a fusion of literary heritage and contemporary theatre that can only be experienced on a Cunard voyage.
For those keen to be part of this historic moment in cruise entertainment, now is the time to plan your journey with Cunard. Contact a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel or click the button below to explore available cruises and secure your spot aboard the Queen Anne for a voyage filled with laughter, storytelling, and the unmatched elegance of Cunard.