The Liverpool Waterfront is about to witness a historic moment on the 3rd of June, as Cunard’s latest luxury liner, the Queen Anne, makes its maiden call. This exclusive event, set to transform the waterfront into a vibrant hub, will be further elevated by the presence of the world-renowned Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli, who will headline a spectacular line-up of performances.
Bocelli, acclaimed for his expressive and powerful performances, will be accompanied by Liverpool’s finest talents, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the gifted performers from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts. The event will be graced by the presence of musician Matt Willis and his wife, as well as TV presenter Emma Willis, who will host the special naming ceremony.
The ceremony will feature the time-honoured tradition of smashing a bottle of Champagne against the hull of the 249th ship to bear the Cunard name, a momentous occasion that operatic superstar Andrea Bocelli’s performance will further elevate.
As the evening unfolds, a diverse range of performances will captivate the audience. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts will set the stage, followed by a dynamic DJ set from Lauren Lo Sung. The festivities will then shift gears with a lively funk and soul performance by Craig Charles, leading up to the grand finale—a breathtaking fireworks display as Queen Anne embarks on its journey.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, expressed her excitement, stating, “Liverpool’s connection with Cunard is legendary, and we are overjoyed to have Maestro Bocelli join our incredible roster of artists for this special event. This celebration honors our storied past and the strong bond we share with Liverpool. We anticipate a night of memorable performances that capture the essence of Cunard and the vibrant spirit of Liverpool.”
Andrea Bocelli shared his enthusiasm, remarking, “Performing in Liverpool for the Queen Anne’s Official Naming Ceremony is a true honour. This event is a beautiful homage to the artistry and elegance synonymous with Cunard’s new vessel. Participating in such a historic event in a city with a rich cultural heritage is a source of immense joy for me.”
This event is not just a celebration, but a significant milestone in Liverpool’s cultural history. It is expected to draw thousands of spectators, adding another illustrious chapter to the history of Cunard ships. In the past, events involving Cunard vessels have attracted over a million onlookers to the banks of the Mersey, with notable occasions such as the QE2’s maiden call in 1990 and the 2015 Three Queens’ royal rendezvous’ for Cunard’s 175th anniversary. This year’s event is poised to be a memorable highlight in Liverpool’s vibrant history.
