Holland America Line has announced partnerships with Billboard and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts for two new music venues, both of which will be a part of the Music Walk complex on the line's upcoming ship, the ms Koningsdam.
Billboard Onboard will be a live interactive music experience that will make its debut on the new Pinnacle-class Kongingsdam when the ship launches in April 2016. The experience will showcase the talents of live musicians — including two pianists, a guitarist and a DJ — who will take turns performing shows centered around the interesting facts and figures of the music industry as chronicled by Billboard. Between the nightly sets and songs, guests can sing and play along with trivia questions presented on screens throughout the room.
"Our guests love music that spans all genres, and Billboard Onboard is the perfect way to showcase a wide range of popular hits under one roof," said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line.
Lincoln Center Stage
The line has also announced a partnership with Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on the Lincoln Center Stage, which will make its first appearance on the ms Eurodam in January 2016. Lincoln Center Stage will also be part of Kongingsdam's Music Walk complex when the ship launches.
Under the exclusive partnership, each Lincoln Center Stage will showcase an ensemble performing chamber music. The musicians will perform multiple programs nightly. On those occasions when guests are enjoying a leisurely day at sea aboard ship, the ensemble also will play afternoon recitals.
"Classical music has been one of the many hallmarks of a Holland America Line cruise, and to partner with an organization as esteemed as Lincoln Center takes our program to an entirely new level," said Ashford.
Lincoln Center Stage programming on additional ships will be announced at a later date.
The new Music Walk complex on Koningsdam will encompass the ship's musical offerings and partnerships, including B. B. King's Blues Club.