Prior to the cruise, we were able to book a lot of theatre shows in advance via the P&O online booking system. We were told that you could book shows a couple of weeks before departure but we were able to actually book a few weeks before.
Some shows were in “The Headliners Theatre” and others in the Sky Dome near the pool. Here is a summary of the entertainment shows that we saw each day.
Entertainment does of course vary and this is just a flavour of what was available during our holiday.
“Universe”
A non bookable show that you turn up early to watch and get the best seat that you can. We discovered that the first show was packed at 2100. Despite getting seats, we found our view blocked at times by passers by who stood in front of you! I enjoyed the show and wanted to experience with a better view. I then came back for the later show at 2230 and got an excellent view. A space adventure with song and dance. A little cheesy but great entertainment on a first cruise night in the Sky Dome.
A lot of recognisable songs featured along with a couple of excellent Coldplay covers. The show was fun to watch and included lit up drones in the sky which was impressive. The second show was particularly good as now late night. As the show features and relies on a lot of lighting, it made it all more enjoyable. The sound in the area was really good. The performers were excellent with good singer and dancing. Also humorous in parts.
A good start to the shows.
“Festival”
This was a theatre show in “The Headliners” theatre. An impressive theatre space, with good use of technology to enhance the audience experience. Screens surrounding the stage and massive LED screens to provide stage sets. Many theatres will be jealous of this set up and the theatres capability to adapt with staging that can raise as required.
The Headliners performers were excellent and this was an enjoyable show. A boy meets girl story with excellent covers of many recognisable hits to dancing and singing.
The show lasts 45 minutes and my family and I were really impressed. Would list this as a must see.
Neil Lockwood – “ELO 2”
Neil performed two separate shows over the course of a couple of evenings. This was the first which was a live performance of ELO hits and covers. The show was in “The Headliners” Theatre and lasted approximately 45 minutes.
I had not heard of Neil but was aware of ELO. An enjoyable show with many fans in the audience.
For those wanting to meet Neil for selfies, signatures or to buy a signed CD, details were given when you could meet the next day. The show was followed up by a second show with Neil talking but we did not attend that one.
“Digital”
Another “The Headliners Theatre” show. As I was on a behind the scenes tour this particular day, and I got to see the costumes behind the scenes while the team ran through a technical rehearsal. The show was pretty amazing.
The music and dancing builds as the show progresses and a brilliant section with the dancers wearing illuminated suits in the dark.
Greatest Days
This was the “Take That” musical “Greatest Days”.
A theatrical story telling of the friendship between a group of girls who follow a boy band. The story is accompanied by a Take That musical score. While I looked forward to this show, it wasn’t my favourite. The hype is that the show is a flag ship show but while others really enjoyed, this one didn’t do it for me. The Take That music and singer is excellent but the story did not do it for me.
Wavelength
A game show in the theatre presented by the Entertainment Manager along with video of Ben Shepherd. This was really good and the audience enjoyed themselves. The contestants of course also being real cruise couples. It would be good to see more afternoon game shows like this during the cruise.
“Kane and Abel”
This particular version of the show was performed in the Club House. Magicians “Kane & Abel” presenting their cruise ship magic show. Though it does take place in the theatre as well during most cruises. For those who follow my sites, you will know that I am a massive magic fan. (Visit Magic Seats for a full review of this show here). The show was excellent and very funny.
“X”
Another Sky Dome show which is a high energy dance show. A couple of opportunities to watch on any evening that it is performing.
It is a little mad in a fun way. No doubt a massive hit with the younger audience members.
Rachel Hawnt “So Cher” show
The winner of the ITV “Starstruck” 2022 performed a set of Cher songs. An excellent show and we enjoyed this a lot. This was also in the Headliners Theatre.
I had not heard of Rachel before but I am now a fan. She is an amazing impersonator who impersonates and sings as Cher. Also very funny.
A lovely lady who genuinely enjoys performing and interacting with the audience. A great selection of older Cher songs were sung.
If you get your phone out, if nearby, Rachel will pose, sing/talk to you and even grab your phone to film herself up close.
Rachel was a massive hit and I joined many giving her a standing ovation. My favourite Headliners show.
For the full review, please read here.
Later in the week we were able to see her perform again in The Club House. This time her “Divalution show”.
“Play”
This was a musical extravaganza in the Sky Dome. We did not see the complete show as it did not really captivate us and we missed some of it. The audience watching enjoyed the musical numbers.
“Manuel Martinez”
Comedy magician Manuel Martinez carried out several shows including a theatre show and workshop. As a magic enthusiast, I was able to get a selfie and a signed card to add to my collection.
The theatre show was also very enjoyable. Please see my full review here on my separate magic website Magic Seats.
“Jo Little”
Comedian and singer Jo Little performed an evening of three shows in the Headliners Theatre. My wife enjoyed and seemed to like the singing in particular. I had to miss this show though had been looking forward to it. Jo puts on a couple of different shows and goes down well with the audience.
“Sky’s The Limit”
The last show that we had booked.my wife and daughter viewed. A musical theatre show with passengers and set in an airport. Good staging. Again, I also had to miss this show. However, I had seen so much excellent entertainment, you just cannot see everything as too many choices.
I hope that this gives you a some idea of the theatre shows available. The entertainment does of course vary from cruise to cruise.
Please do keep an eye on our new cruising page for more content about P&O cruises and Arvia.
