Cunard and the Olivier Awards 2026: London Theatre at Sea on Queen Mary 2
The curtain is rising on one of the most exciting cultural voyages of 2026. Cunard has been announced as the headline partner for the Olivier Awards 2026, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Britain’s most prestigious theatre awards. For lovers of stage and performance, this landmark partnership brings the magic of the West End to the open ocean.
At Paramount Cruises, we specialise in extraordinary cruise experiences. London Theatre at Sea with Cunard combines world-class theatre, elegant ocean travel, and a Transatlantic crossing aboard the iconic Queen Mary 2.
Cunard and the Olivier Awards: a landmark partnership
Cunard and the Society of London Theatre have enjoyed a successful partnership since 2019, but 2026 marks a major milestone. As the Olivier Awards celebrate their 50th anniversary, Cunard steps into the spotlight as headline partner.
Alongside supporting the ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall, Cunard will sponsor the Cunard Best New Musical award. This collaboration reflects a shared passion for outstanding performance, storytelling, and British cultural heritage, both on land and at sea.
London Theatre at Sea 2026: voyage details
Ship Queen Mary 2
Dates 22 to 29 May 2026
Route Southampton to New York
This seven-night Transatlantic crossing transforms Queen Mary 2 into a floating celebration of theatre. Curated by Julian Bird OBE, London Theatre at Sea offers guests rare access to leading West End talent in an immersive and refined setting.
West End stars on board Queen Mary 2
While the full programme will be announced closer to departure, the confirmed line-up already includes acclaimed Olivier Award winners and nominees.
Maria Friedman, four-time Olivier Award winner and director of Merrily We Roll Along
Tosh Wanogho Maud, known for The Drifters Girl and Dreamgirls
Liz Robertson, Olivier Award nominee and West End legend
Linzi Hateley, star of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and Mamma Mia
Nic Greenshields, celebrated for The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables
This rare gathering of talent makes London Theatre at Sea one of the most exclusive theatre-themed cruises ever offered.
What to expect on the London Theatre at Sea voyage
London Theatre at Sea is not a standard cruise itinerary. It is designed to immerse guests in every aspect of theatrical life.
The Oliviers in Concert
The centrepiece of the voyage is a one-off production in the Royal Court Theatre. Olivier Award stars perform music from the past 50 years of award-winning theatre, accompanied by orchestra and choir.
Interactive theatre workshops and masterclasses
Guests can participate in dance classes, vocal coaching, and acting workshops led by West End professionals, offering genuine insight into life behind the scenes.
In conversation with the stars
Intimate Q and A sessions allow guests to hear candid stories from the performers’ careers, both on stage and beyond.
The Cockney Singalong
A much-loved tradition returns with Tom Carradine hosting lively sing-alongs featuring musical theatre favourites and classic songs in Queen Mary 2’s iconic lounges.
Extend your theatre experience with a New York stay
This sailing is already thoughtfully packaged by Paramount Cruises with a three-night stay in New York City, ensuring the experience continues well beyond the final curtain at sea.
After a week immersed in West End culture aboard Queen Mary 2, step straight into the energy of New York. Spend time on Broadway, explore world-renowned museums, wander Central Park, or simply enjoy the city’s rich and ever-evolving theatre scene at your own pace.
Book London Theatre at Sea 2026 with Paramount Cruises
With the Olivier Awards celebrating their 50th anniversary, London Theatre at Sea 2026 is attracting exceptional interest. Combined with the limited availability of theatre-themed voyages on Queen Mary 2, this is a sailing that is unlikely to remain available for long.
Whether you are deeply passionate about theatre or simply appreciate refined travel with cultural depth, this voyage offers something genuinely distinctive.
Enquire today to secure your place on London Theatre at Sea aboard Queen Mary 2, with a New York stay already included.
Frequently asked questions
What is London Theatre at Sea with Cunard?
London Theatre at Sea is a themed Transatlantic cruise on Queen Mary 2 that brings West End theatre to the ocean through live performances, workshops, and appearances from Olivier Award-winning talent.
When is the Cunard London Theatre at Sea voyage in 2026?
The London Theatre at Sea voyage takes place from 22 to 29 May 2026, sailing from Southampton to New York on Queen Mary 2.
Who will appear on the London Theatre at Sea cruise?
The voyage features Olivier Award winners and nominees, including Maria Friedman, Tosh Wanogho Maud, Liz Robertson, Linzi Hateley, and Nic Greenshields, with additional performers announced closer to sailing.
What is The Oliviers in Concert on Queen Mary 2?
The Oliviers in Concert is a one-off performance celebrating 50 years of Olivier Award-winning theatre, staged in Queen Mary 2’s Royal Court Theatre with orchestra and choir.
Does the London Theatre at Sea cruise include a New York stay?
Yes. When booked through Paramount Cruises, London Theatre at Sea includes a three-night stay in New York City, allowing guests to continue their theatre experience beyond the Transatlantic crossing.
