Preparing the Team
1. Assessment and Reorganization:
Performance Readiness: Start by assessing the health and readiness of each performer. The
dancer with the sprained ankle must be given proper care and therapy while maintaining clear
communication about her rehabilitation progress. Determine if her performance roles need to
be adjusted or replaced. Assign physiotherapists and onboard medical staff to help speed up
recovery without compromising health.
Reorganization: In case the dancer is not cleared to perform, reorganize other dancers to cover
her roles, or consider bringing in an understudy if possible. Have alternative dancers and
performers undergo rehearsals for those specific roles to ensure a seamless performance even if
changes are needed at the last minute.
2. Cultural Sensitivity Training:
Language and Culture Workshop: Given the diverse passenger demographic, it’s crucial that the
crew undergo a language and cultural training session. Prepare materials that outline common
greetings and customs for various cultures, along with strategies for offering culturally
appropriate hospitality. Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” in a guest’s native language can
foster a more welcoming environment.
Customer Service Orientation: Emphasize a customer-centric approach to hospitality, with
sensitivity toward dietary restrictions, dress norms, and communication styles. For instance,
greetings without physical contact may be preferred by some guests, while others might prefer
more casual interactions.
3. Rehearsal and Technical Adjustments:
Dress Rehearsals: Conduct thorough rehearsals with the entire team to ensure that all
performers are familiar with their routines and that backup performers are well-prepared.
During these sessions, ensure that the technical staff is also coordinating closely to fine-tune
lighting, sound, and other production elements.
Technical Setup: Test all technical equipment, including audio-visual systems, to ensure smooth
operations during performances. Allocate staff to conduct regular checks on microphones,
lighting, and backstage logistics to preempt any potential disruptions.
Backup Plan
1. Flexible Performances:
Smaller Ensembles: If the team remains understaffed, organize smaller ensemble performances
featuring singers, magicians, comedians, or solo dancers. Alternatively, schedule entertainers in
overlapping shifts to balance performance times and allow flexibility in case someone can't
perform at a specific time.
Audience Engagement: Plan engaging activities where the audience plays an active role.
Organize a karaoke night where passengers can sing their favorite songs or a dance class
featuring globally recognized dance styles like salsa or tango. This approach keeps passengers
entertained while ensuring any performance gaps are filled with meaningful activities.
2. Collaborate with Other Staff:
Cross-Departmental Support: Explore opportunities for cross-departmental collaborations. For
instance, partner with the culinary staff to arrange mixology workshops or cooking classes, or
invite the wellness team to conduct fitness classes or mindfulness sessions.
Contract Local Entertainers: When feasible, partner with local entertainers from ports of call to
add authenticity and variety to the entertainment lineup. This approach provides a fresh
perspective while celebrating local cultures and customs.
Entertainment Plan
Night 1 - Welcome Show:
Crew Talents: Kick off the cruise by introducing the crew to passengers through a showcase of
their talents. This may include showcasing dancers, singers, musicians, or even comedians
among the staff.
Themed Introductions: Structure the show around a multicultural theme, where each
performance is a representation of a different region, culture, or language. Highlight unique
traditions, stories, or folklore from around the world to set the tone for the cruise.
Night 2 - Broadway Night:
Famous Musicals: Celebrate the magic of Broadway by performing scenes from beloved musicals
like The Lion King, Aladdin, and The Phantom of the Opera. Include brief translations or visual
storytelling methods to make the performances accessible to non-English speakers.
Surprise Elements: Add surprising and engaging acts like puppetry or magic tricks that transcend
language barriers and appeal to children and adults alike.
Night 3 - Cultural Kaleidoscope:
World Dance Showcase: Organize a dance medley featuring flamenco, samba, hip-hop, tango,
and traditional regional performances. Let passengers witness a spectacular display of global
dance forms performed by trained dancers and fellow guests.
Global Beats DJ Night: Host a DJ night showcasing world music. Blend various musical styles
such as reggae, salsa, bhangra, and pop to create an inclusive dance party that appeals to
diverse age groups.
Night 4 - Variety Night:
Talent Show: Organize an interactive talent show where passengers are encouraged to showcase
their unique abilities. This could be anything from singing and dancing to playing instruments or
performing stand-up comedy.
Magic Show: Feature a magician who can entertain children and adults alike with mesmerizing
tricks and illusions. Ensure that the tricks are safe and suitable for families to maintain a
wholesome atmosphere.
Night 5 - Farewell Gala:
Grand Finale: Conclude the cruise with a grand finale that includes a spectacular combination of
dances, acrobatics, and music representing different regions of the world. Let passengers feel a
genuine connection with the performers through a carefully curated blend of global
entertainment.
Gratitude Speech: Express gratitude to passengers with a short speech in multiple languages,
thanking them for choosing the cruise and inviting them for future journeys.
Multilingual and Cultural Accommodation
1. Visual and Non-Verbal Entertainment:
Visual Storytelling: Focus on visual storytelling elements, such as mime, dance, and physical
comedy, that can transcend language barriers. Consider adapting existing stories with a strong
visual appeal or symbolism.
Screen Subtitles: If feasible, provide subtitles or multilingual captions on screens during key
moments to aid understanding for non-English speakers.
2. Interpreter Services:
Translation Teams: Arrange for a small team of interpreters to provide passengers with
assistance for show schedules, venue locations, and translations. Consider using pre-recorded
translations in major languages during performances.
Bilingual Announcements: Make sure that the emcees or announcers deliver key information
bilingually, with an emphasis on the main languages spoken onboard.
3. Inclusive Themes and Costumes:
Themes: Select themes that are inclusive and free of any religious or political biases. Neutral and
universally appealing themes are safer and more enjoyable for a diverse audience.
Costumes: Ensure that costumes are designed in a culturally sensitive manner, avoiding
stereotypes or any features that could offend religious or cultural sentiments.
References
1. Smith, T., & Gold, R. (2018). Effective Cruise Entertainment Strategies. Marine Hospitality Journal,
12(4), 123-145.
2. Disney Cruise Line. (2022). Planning Entertainment on a Disney Cruise.
https://disneycruise.disney.go.com
3. Johnson, M. (2019). Cultural Sensitivity in Hospitality Management. International Journal of
Travel, 15(2), 233-245.