Norwegian Cruise Line has showcased its latest entertainment offerings, including a tribute show to the iconic Sir Elton John. The announcements were made during a tour of the company’s Creative Studios in Tampa, which spans 110,000 square feet and supports productions for all 35 ships in the Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas fleets. The new shows, including “ELTON: A Celebration of Elton John” and “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder,” are slated to debut aboard the Norwegian Luna, which will set sail from PortMiami in early April 2024.
Inside the studios, the atmosphere buzzes with creativity. Visitors can hear the rhythms of tap dancing or catch glimpses of performers rehearsing elaborate dance numbers. “We create bespoke productions and experiences from the ground up,” said Bryan White, Vice President of Entertainment Production for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “These are one-of-a-kind productions you cannot find anywhere else in the world.”
Behind the Curtain: A Streamlined Production Process
The in-house creative team plays a crucial role in the production of nearly 134 active shows across all ships. Facilities include advanced costume shops where costumes can be custom printed and assembled with state-of-the-art technology. Costumers dedicate significant hours to crafting intricate pieces, including a fur-pattern cape designed for the upcoming “LunaTique: Pop Circus” show, which involved 80 hours of work.
Costumes are meticulously maintained; the laundry room processes between 60-80 garments daily. Each piece is either stored for future use or, once retired, donated to local schools’ theatre departments or dance studios. This comprehensive system ensures that shows are ready to go within a tight six-week preparation window before the cast boards their respective ships.
Showcasing Iconic Music with a Modern Twist
The highlight of the entertainment lineup is undoubtedly the tribute to Sir Elton John. “As we continue to celebrate mainstream artists with broad generational appeal, there’s nobody better than Elton,” stated Katy Tate, Director of the show. The performance will feature a blend of archival footage and live music, aiming to evoke the essence of Elton’s legendary performances without simply mimicking them.
The production promises an exhilarating experience, complete with aerial and acrobatic elements alongside cutting-edge visuals. “We want it to feel like we summoned his past performances,” Tate explained. Early previews have revealed a vibrant atmosphere with snappy choreography and live musicians performing classics such as “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” and “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting.” The costume department has utilized over 1,000 yards of fabric for this production alone, ensuring a visually stunning show.
Another highlight, “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder,” incorporates elements of Cirque-style artistry with modern technology. The show, conceptualized by Kai Carrier, features a protagonist who transforms a dull, monochromatic world into a vibrant spectacle through mapping and projection techniques. Director Shay Kuebler, who brings a martial arts background to the choreography, aims to create an experience that is both artistic and accessible, reminiscent of cinematic blockbusters.
The diverse entertainment options on the Norwegian Luna cater to a broad audience. While shows like the Elton John tribute aim for a nostalgic connection, other experiences, such as “Sea of Discovery! An Under-the-Sea Festival,” target a younger demographic. Meanwhile, “LunaTique: Pop Circus” blends circus performances with themed cocktails and interactive components, appealing to adults seeking sophisticated entertainment.
White expressed the satisfaction derived from witnessing audience reactions after the extensive production process. “With all of the work that all of our hundreds of team members have put into making these things happen, it’s about the guest. We’re doing it for them,” he said. The anticipation for these new shows reflects Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences on the high seas.
