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The performing arts industry offers a wide range of careers and one place you'll find practically all of these (and more) is on a cruise ship!
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd is a
global cruise holiday company that operates Royal Caribbean International
and Celebrity Cruises, with a combined total of 29 ships in service and
another currently under construction. The company also offers cruise-tour holidays in
Alaska, Canada and Europe.
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The Specialist, Casting/Production Operations
team at Royal Caribbean International describe what it's like to work on
a cruise and the varied roles the company needs to provide entertainment
for its many passengers.
Please tell us about the different types of performing roles available.
"The performance roles usually fall into one or more of the following categories; singers, dancers, ice skaters, interactive performers, headliner and variety acts. The interactive performers are so called as they interact with our guests up close and personal incorporating specific skills such as comedy acting, juggling, stilt walking and acrobatics.
Are there other roles that are more managerial or technical and what do these involve?
"Yes, as you can imagine there are a number of behind-the-scenes roles that are needed to put on the many shows we produce. These include:
The Production Manager - who oversees all aspects of the theatre, including technical
and administrative operations;
Light Technicians - who operate and maintain all the lighting for the theatre shows;
Sound Technicians - they operate and maintain all aspects of sound for the theatre shows;
Lounge Technicians - responsible for operating and maintaining all sound and light for other entertainment venues on board;
Riggers- responsible for operating flying systems and maintaining the rigging in the theatre;
Stage Staff - based backstage they offer assistance during Theatre shows."
How old do you have to be to work on a cruise ship?
"You need to be at least 18 years old."
Do you need qualifications or to pass an audition?
"Yes, you must be qualified for each of the technical job opportunities and performers must go thorough an audition process. We hold live auditions all over the world - our website has an audition calendar and we also advertise the dates and venues. If you are unable to make an audition you can send us a video but we would much prefer to see people live."
What is life like - living and working on a cruise ship?
"It's a wonderful experience that you will cherish for ever! Travelling and meeting thousands of people - guests and crew from all over the world. Working on board is challenging though. While you are in an environment when everyone is on holiday enjoying their time off, you are performing, rehearsing and performing again! Life on board is great for the crew as well as the guests since there are many activities planned each week. It's also an excellent way to save some money as your accommodation is provided."
How long do most cruises last for?
"For the guests most cruises are scheduled for 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14 days. For staff it is between 4 and 8 months."
Is there a lot of competition for jobs?
"Yes!"
Finally do you have any advice for someone wanting to work on a cruise?
"Come in with an open mind, ready for work, and ready for play. Of course after the work is done there is the opportunity to visit each port and travel the world. You even get paid for this!"
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