Crystal Cruises is expanding its regional entertainment programming on every European voyage in 2012.  The ultra-luxury line is bringing aboard the highest caliber of gifted dancers, singers, and musicians whose art reflects their homeland’s culture and traditions. In addition to the prominent local entertainers, Crystal will treat its guests to some of the richest rising young talent from the performing arts world on three European cruises this summer in particular.

From dramatic Flamenco in Barcelona to disciplined Irish step dancing in Dublin, guests can enjoy authentic, complimentary shows in Italy, France, Spain, Monaco, Ireland, Turkey, Sweden and the Ukraine on 26 Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity luxury cruises.

Top entertainers include:

• Venice: Interpreti Veneziani, an interpretive string ensemble that performs an inspiring baroque, classical, and modern repertoire, many from Venetian composers like Vivaldi.
• Odessa: The Chamber Orchestra from the Music School of Stolyarsky, a renowned local “musical star factory” for gifted children, created in 1933 by esteemed violin pedagogue Pyotr Stolyarsky.
• Monte Carlo: Les Petits Chanteurs de Monaco, a boys’ choir that tours under the patronage of H.S.H., the Prince of Monaco.
• Istanbul: Hodjapasha Culture Center Whirling Dervish ceremonial show, voted Best Local Authentic Event by the Turkish Tourist Guide Association.
• Sorrento: Teatro Tasso, featuring 19th century “Tarantella” song and dance that tells the story of yesteryear’s daily life in southern Italy.

Shows will also be offered in St. Petersburg, Honfleur, and Stockholm. 

Among the exciting performances offered on the European voyages in 2012, top young emerging artists will be aboard three summer European cruises in particular. Continuing its esteemed partnership with The Music Center – Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County, the “Emerging Artists”-themed North Cape and Mediterranean cruises feature winners of the Music Center’s annual Spotlight Awards. Guests can enjoy rousing performances from the program’s top musicians, singers, and dancers, as well as a rare “sneak peek” into master training classes.

Visiting acclaimed destinations throughout Italy, Monaco, Turkey, Ukraine, Denmark, Norway and more, each sailing features a consortium of artists performing around one musical focus:

• June 19, Venice to Istanbul (Crystal Serenity, 12 days) – ‘Ballet and the Classics,’ with Royal Danish Ballet dancers, opera, and classical pieces brought alive. 
• July 8, Copenhagen to Stockholm (Crystal Symphony, 15 days) – Jazz-themed repertoire, featuring a diversified mix of jazz performers.
• August 13, Venice to Barcelona (Crystal Serenity, 12 days) – Boasting an international twist, this “world tour” through music and movement features song, guitar, and regional folk dancing.

Each voyage also includes Master Classes At Sea?, showcasing the intense mentoring and preparation required for professional career success. 

Until June 30, all-inclusive Book Now fares for the above three Experiences of Discovery voyages start at US$5,610/person, with optional air add-ons and savings for groups of six or more, combining cruises, and Crystal Society member-sponsored, new-to-Crystal guests.