You've no doubt already seen news that The Blue Man Group will be performing on Norwegian Cruise Line's new ship Norwegian Epic.
I was one of the lucky few from the UK to go out to a steamy New York (temperatures in the early 80sF) for two nights this week to hear first hand the last big news about what is going to be on board this mega 4,200-passenger ship when it launches in July 2010.
Our first full day started with a trip to the Top of the Rock - the observation deck at the top of the Rockefella Plaza. The original deck's design was inspired by the ocean liner's of the era (there's the cruiseing link!), complete with deck chairs.
They've long gone - the Observation Deck was shut for 20 years and reopened in 2005 after renovation work - but it's definitely worth a visit if you're in town, for the magnificent views.
The guys from NCL laid on a great event, attended by around 300 journalists and travel agents, following the presentation about the new entertainment with a cut-down version of The Blue Man show in the delightful little theatre in Astor Place where the blue thing all began. There is still a show there, but it's now also in six other venues around the world.
The show is certainly different and will no doubt be very popular, but it's not to my taste. Instead, I'm looking forward to the new Cirque Dreams and Dinner, where you eat while watching a two-hour show featuring acrobats, jugglers, contortionists and the like.
NCL's executive vice-president global sales and passenger services Andy Stuart promised he wasn't joking when he said performers will be coming down from the ceiling to refill diners' water glasses!
If it's anything like the great theatrical dining experience in NCL's Teppanyaki Room they are on to a winner here.
There will be two set-time dinner shows a night on at least six days of every cruise, in a venue themed to look like a rather garish big top.
Just so they can say it's the first big top at sea, I guess.
Jane Archer
