Norwegian Cruise Line's Prince Show Revolutionizes Tech, Not
A review of Norwegian Cruise Line's 'Revolution: A Celebration of Prince' finds its technical execution stunning but criticizes subpar vocal performances
Norwegian Cruise Line's new production show, 'Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,' is a jukebox musical distinguished by its advanced technology and the iconic music . According to a review from Cruise Radio, the show's pre-set experience, featuring pulsing chandeliers and a faux funeral, sets a high bar for a multi-sensory cruise ship performance.
The vocal performances during the reviewer's specific sailing, however, were described as sub-bar and at times flinchingly bad. The review notes that an entirely new cast was scheduled to take over the show within days, as the current cast's contracts were ending.
Cast Energy and Audience Setup
One thing labeled flawless is the energy of the cast, particularly the dancers. The reviewer stated that the performers' fun translated to the audience, with beats being stomped into submission during the hour-long show. The audience is split into two groups: those with reservations get traditional theater seating on deck 7, while those without are ushered to a standing-room area on deck 6, resembling a rock concert crowd.
During the performance, large set pieces move through the audience. A crew in silver jackets herds guests to appropriate areas for safety and staging purposes.
A Standout Moment and a Questionable Finale
The show builds through a collection of Prince hits to a standout moment: a rendition of 'Purple Rain' featuring a piano rising from beneath the stage. The reviewer calls this gorgeous and a crowd-pleaser that should have served as the emotional finale. Instead, the show continues into a big, splashy production number with the full ensemble.
While this final number gets the audience on their feet and sends them out smiling, it fails to deliver the same punch as 'Purple Rain.' The reviewer compares it to the finale of Mama Mia! on Broadway, which similarly opts for an upbeat, participatory closing over narrative cohesion.
Enjoyment of 'Revolution' may depend on a guest's familiarity with Prince's music. The review suggests that casual fans seeking familiar tunes and post-dinner entertainment before visiting the casino will likely be the most satisfied attendees. The technical execution remains the show's most revolutionary aspect.
