Liverpool’s waterfront will be the site of a spectacular celebration on June 3rd, where a range of performers will come together to commemorate the maiden voyage of the Queen Anne to its spiritual home. Among them will be Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who will join an impressive line-up of Liverpool talent, featuring the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts performers. The occasion will be hosted by Matt Willis, himself a musician, and his wife, TV presenter Emma Willis.
The event will also see the arrival of special guests and the official Godparent, who will participate in the naming of the vessel, a tradition represented by the smashing of a bottle of Champagne against its side. The celebrations come to a close with a performance by operatic superstar Andrea Bocelli, but the festivities will continue, with additional performances by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, followed by a lively funk and soul set spun by DJ Lauren Lo Sung. The finale will see Queen Anne departing with a spectacular fireworks display.
Choirs and street theatre groups commissioned by Culture Liverpool will be entertaining the crowds at the Pier Head from 2:30 in the afternoon. Organisers expect the celebrations will attract thousands and become another historic moment in the history of Cunard ships, following in the steps of the QE2’s maiden call in July 1990 and the 2015 Three Queens ‘royal rendezvous’. These earlier events have drawn large audiences, with the 1990 appearance alone drawing over a million spectators to the banks of the Mersey. All of this ensures the naming of Queen Anne will add to Liverpool’s rich cultural heritage.
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. We look forward to honouring this legacy with a celebration of unforgettable performances that reflect the spirit and vibrancy of both our company and this magnificent city.”
Andrea Bocelli said: “It’s an honour 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.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “This is yet another prestigious, international event taking place in our city, casting Liverpool into the limelight once again and showcasing our enviable maritime offer. The naming ceremony is set to be a majestic sight and I’m sure it will attract huge crowds to the waterfront who want to be part of this unique moment in ours and Cunard’s history.”
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