Emerging Artists Merge With Crystal in Alaska

LOS ANGELES, March 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether one is hooked on American Idol or an elite patron of the arts, music and dance buffs love to discover new talent.  This summer, Crystal Cruises is treating guests to its own performance series of high-caliber "Emerging Artists" during its new Alaska season.  

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110307/LA60495)

Via a partnership with The Music Center – Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County, seven May-August "Experiences of Discovery"-theme cruises will feature a total of 22 young gifted artists, including members of the San Francisco Ballet, accomplished composers and songwriters, students from Juilliard and the Berklee College of Music, and an "America's Most Talented Kid" TV show contestant.

The 17- to 25-year-old participants are all alumni of the Center's renowned Spotlight Awards program, which nurtures the audition and performance skills of high school-aged artists from Southern California.  The year-long intensive course of study culminates in the Spotlight Awards presentation, with many award-winners invited aboard Crystal Symphony to showcase their talents in ballet, classical piano, Broadway-style vocals, international dance, opera, jazz and/or blues.

While sailing amongst ice-blue glaciers and serene wildlife of the Last Frontier, onboard guests will be able to enjoy performances as well as observe a Master Class between artists and Music Center Master Class teachers/ambassadors.  These exclusive complimentary seminars will give an insider's peek at the intensive training performers undergo to professionally perfect their art.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for all ages to create a lifetime of memories and share in the excitement of seeing extraordinary, Crystal-quality talent before they hit it big," says Christopher Escamilla, senior production coordinator, entertainment. 

Conveniently round-trip from San Francisco, the 12-day voyages are set for May 21, Jun 2, 14, 26, Jul 8, 20 and Aug 1, and call at Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan, Victoria, Vancouver, and either Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier.  

Promotional two-for-one fares start at $4,780/person, including free air from North American gateways (or generous air credit) and $500/person "All Inclusive—As You Wish" shipboard credit.  Reap additional savings with Verandah and Penthouse promotions, New-to-Crystal offers, Crystal Society, Bring-a-Friend or Crystal's Family Memories programs.

Access artist rosters via the "Entertainment & Programs" tab for each sailing at: http://www.crystalcruises.com/VoyageCategory.aspx?RK=ALA

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625 or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

SOURCE Crystal Cruises