Crystal Cruises Invites Young Artists to Perform This Summer

Crystal Cruises has always been a staunch supporter of the arts but they've just gone a step further by partnering with the Music Center—Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County. The new program is dubbed the "Emerging Artists Experiences of Discovery."

This summer, in conjunction with the Music Center's Spotlight Awards program, select Crystal Cruises voyages will feature performances by this year's grand prize finalists. According to the Music Center's website, the mission of the Spotlight Awards is "to provide a supportive environment in which high school students can develop the skills needed to pursue their artistic dreams, with an emphasis on self-esteem, preparation and perseverance."

Over 2,000 high school students audition each year for this coveted award that includes ballet, non-classical dance, classical voice, non-classical voice, classical instrumental, and jazz instrumental. These young artists, most still just teenagers, specialize in music and dance of all types. Three performers per voyage will entertain passengers.

This summer's lineup includes:

June 30, Crystal Symphony—Stockholm to Copenhagen

• Garret Lang, Jazz Bassist
• Kelsey Porter, Vocalist
• Melinda Sullivan, Tap Dancer

July 28, Crystal Serenity—Venice to Athens

• Athena Sterig, Contemporary Dancer
• U-Jung Jung, Classical Pianist
• Anna Schubert, Soprano

September 14, Crystal Serenity—Istanbul to Venice

• Julia Metzler, Mezzo-soprano
• Phillip Golub, Jazz Pianist
• Timo Nunez-Bellamy, Flamenco Dancer

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with The Music Center and Spotlight Awards to present such an astounding caliber of talent aboard Crystal Cruises,” says Christopher Escamilla, senior production coordinator, entertainment. “With the world’s most fascinating cultural centers as a backdrop, Crystal guests will be introduced to some of the best as-yet-unknown talent.”

Crystal’s Europe Celebration cruise fares begin at $4,245 per person, double occupancy, plus up to $1,000 per person shipboard spending credit to customize one’s vacation.

For more information or Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent or call (888) 799-4625.

—Andrea M. Rotondo