Andrea Bocelli to Perform at Queen Anne’s Maiden Call Celebration in Liverpool
Liverpool’s historic waterfront will come alive on June 3rd as Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, makes her maiden call to her spiritual home. The celebration will be headlined by the legendary Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli, and feature a stellar lineup of local talent, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and performers from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.
The event, hosted by musician Matt Willis and TV presenter Emma Willis, will include a special naming ceremony where a Champagne bottle will be smashed against the hull of Queen Anne, marking the official christening of the 249th ship to bear the Cunard name. Guests will enjoy performances by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, and DJ Lauren Lo Sung, before Bocelli takes to the stage for a breathtaking operatic performance.
The celebrations will continue with a lively funk and soul set by Craig Charles, ensuring the party atmosphere continues until the grand finale, when Queen Anne departs Liverpool amidst a backdrop of dazzling fireworks. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said, “Liverpool is known the world over as Cunard’s spiritual home, and we are thrilled to announce Maestro Bocelli as part of our incredible line-up of talented artists and performers for this special event. This celebration is a tribute to our rich history and a testament to the enduring bond between Cunard and the city of Liverpool.”
Bocelli commented, “It’s an honor to be performing in Liverpool, for the Official Naming Ceremony of Queen Anne. This event promises to be a beautiful celebration of artistry and craftsmanship, which perfectly captures spirit and elegance of Cunard’s new ship. To be taking part in such a historic occasion, in a city rich in cultural heritage, truly brings me great joy.”
The celebrations are expected to attract thousands of attendees, marking another significant milestone in Cunard’s storied history. Previous maiden calls by Cunard ships have drawn over a million spectators to the Mersey’s banks, including the QE2’s maiden call in July 1990 and the 2015 Three Queens ‘royal rendezvous’ celebrating Cunard’s 175th anniversary. This event promises to be a memorable addition to Liverpool’s rich historical tapestry, ensuring its place in the city’s celebrated legacy for years to come.
