PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Producing some of the most entertaining production shows on the high seas doesn’t just happen overnight and great entertainers don’t just fall from the sky and show up on board. It takes inspired talent to create shows worthy of outstanding acclaim. But exactly how do you meld dozens of entertainers that have never worked together into a cohesive team of performers over the course of a few weeks?
Carnival Cruise Line’s answer to that dilemma was to establish an exclusive rehearsal facility in Davie, Florida, that produces shows at the high standards of New York’s Broadway and London’s West End. After three years of development, it opened in May 2017.
The complex consists of 21 distinct studios that offer band and music rehearsals, as well as separate vocal and dance studios outfitted with configurable lighting rigs and advanced sound equipment. The Development Studio is a 5,266- square-foot area replicating onboard stages, which features an LED wall and six automated sections that move independently. The facility also houses set decorations and props in over 4,000 square feet of storage in addition to a costume design and creation section.
Recruiters hold auditions around the world, with over 1,000 entertainers passing through the rehearsal venue each year. The musical staff assembles rock bands, Latin quartets, classical artists, and various other ensembles to entertain guests aboard the company’s 26- plus ships.
Up to 14 different ongoing shows are being rehearsed each week, but there are also new productions being developed on a rotating basis. Intensive hospitality training is given to each cast member to ensure cruise- guest engagement.
Carnival has tapped into the imagination of creative director, Kerry Stables, and debuted never- before- seen visual elements on the new Carnival Panorama last December. Song- and- dance routines accompany dancing drones for high-flying spectaculars. The concert- style Rock Rev
olution pays tribute to the music from the Woodstock era, and Rhythms of New York demonstrates the diverse music of the city.
Soulbound features legendary R& B classics with dazzling special effects while Celestial
Strings defies genres with a blend of rock and pop with classical performers playing live electric strings.
The next time you see these engaging shows, you’re sure to appreciate the hard work and creative processes that brought these productions to fruition.