4 April 2026 — Cunard has announced its 2026 transatlantic entertainment programme for Queen Mary 2, featuring an expanded programme of theatre, music, literary events and themed experiences across ship’s 2026 Transatlantic Crossings.
Cunard President Katie McAlister said:
“For more than 185 years, Cunard’s iconic Transatlantic Crossings have been defined by extraordinary journeys and exceptional experiences. In 2026, we’re offering the most extensive enrichment program ever on a single year of crossings, placing world-class entertainment at the heart of every voyage.
From award-winning theatre and classical music to thought-provoking literary conversations, this program reflects our long-standing commitment to celebrating culture at sea. We’re incredibly proud to partner with the Olivier and Tony Awards and to welcome such remarkable talent on board Queen Mary 2.”
Olivier Awards partnership
The 2026 programme includes a theatre‑focused sailing in partnership with the Olivier Awards. The collaboration brings West End‑inspired programming to sea through performances, talks and onboard events linked to the awards.
A highlight is The Oliviers in Concert, a production that takes guests through the history of the Olivier Awards. The schedule also features the return of London Theatre at Sea with the Olivier Awards, departing 22 May 2026, with performances, sing‑alongs and an exclusive concert celebrating 50 years of the awards.
New theatre and comedy productions
Cunard will debut The Constant Wife, a comedy produced by Royal Shakespeare Company on 29 May 2026 during Queen Mary 2’s UK tour. Written by Olivier Award‑winning playwright Laura Wade and starring Kara Tointon, the show features original music composed by British jazz artist Jamie Cullum.
Orchestral performances
In September 2026, guests will be able to attend two evening concerts by the UK’s National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis. The programme includes Q&A sessions and opportunities for guests to join a choir rehearsing throughout the voyage.
Queen Mary 2’s 450th Transatlantic Crossing
The 2026 schedule includes special programming marking Queen Mary 2’s 450th Transatlantic Crossing. The celebration features The 450 Club: Celebrate the Transatlantic, created by Immersive Octopus theatre company, presenting moments from Cunard’s history including Noël Coward’s early performances and Captain Arthur Rostron’s role in the Titanic rescue.
A commemorative Gala Dinner will include special performances and interactive experiences celebrating Cunard’s 186‑year heritage.
Literary and cultural programming
The 2026 season also includes the Literature Festival at Sea, bringing together authors, journalists, critics and historians for discussions, book signings and storytelling events.
Entertainment residencies
Cunard will offer a series of Entertainment Residencies across selected 2026 crossings, featuring musicals, comedy, opera and immersive theatre.
Scheduled performers and companies include:
- Adam Riches’ Jimmy
- Tim Benzie’s It’s a Mystery!
- Dyad Productions’ A Room of One’s Own
- Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful
- West End comedy The Last Laugh
Across its wider fleet in 2026, more than 680 speakers will appear throughout the year, including Celia Imrie, Dame Floella Benjamin, Sir Tony Robinson and former England cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss.
