MSC Cruises to Launch 'Dirty Dancing: In Concert' in 2025

MSC Cruises has announced an impressive lineup of new entertainment offerings aboard its mega-ships starting in summer 2025, showcasing the company’s commitment to providing diverse activities for passengers. Central to this announcement is the debut of Dirty Dancing: In Concert, a live-to-film adaptation of the iconic 1987 romantic movie. With performances planned aboard the MSC Virtuosa and MSC World America, the show promises a unique mix of live music, singers, dancers, and iconic scenes streamed in sync with on-stage performances.

Debut of Dirty Dancing: In Concert

The first performance of Dirty Dancing: In Concert will launch on July 10, 2025, aboard MSC Virtuosa, coinciding with its summer itineraries from Southampton, UK. Passengers can look forward to multiple showings, including matinees during sea days, while themed after-parties and sing-alongs further immerse guests in the spirit of the film. On MSC World America, launching in April 2025, similar performances will be featured during sailings from PortMiami in the Caribbean, ensuring attendees won’t be left in the corner.

Additional Entertainment Lineup on MSC Virtuosa

Alongside the Dirty Dancing-themed production, MSC Virtuosa will introduce other high-profile shows for summer 2025:

• Songbook Abba: A celebration of ABBA’s greatest hits that brings nostalgia to life on stage.
• Starwalker: A tribute to the music and dance moves of Michael Jackson.
• Hall of Fame: Expanded to feature performances celebrating pop legends across multiple generations.
• Aerial Performances: Two Cirque-style shows debuting in the Carousel Lounge in June and autumn 2025.

For younger cruisers, MSC Virtuosa will debut pop-up MSC Street Theater performances, LEGO-themed family games, and interactive tech-focused activities designed to engage children of all ages.

MSC World America: Raising the Bar for Entertainment

MSC World America, positioned as the newest flagship of the MSC Cruises fleet, will host its own entertainment extravaganza. Beyond Dirty Dancing-themed performances, passengers can experience shows such as Momentous, featuring illusions, as well as Odyssey. A Queen tribute performance called Queen Rock Symphonic is also on offer, highlighting stadium rock classics.

The ship, equipped with seven onboard districts and 19 dining venues, is tailored to provide a modern and customizable cruise experience to passengers sailing primarily in the Caribbean. The entertainment lineup reflects a dedicated effort to deliver a mix of cutting-edge technology and timeless classics.

Regional Deployment and Itinerary Highlights

MSC Virtuosa’s summer cruises from Southampton will include itineraries to Northern Europe, Norwegian fjords, the Canary Islands, Spain, and Western Mediterranean destinations. Featured voyages include a seven-night trip to the Norwegian fjords and a 12-night adventure exploring the Canary Islands, starting April 21, 2025.

After its summer deployments, MSC Virtuosa will shift homeports to the Caribbean in November 2025, offering winter cruise itineraries across top tropical destinations. This transition aligns with MSC Cruises’ strategy to address seasonal demand and diversify its offerings for passengers worldwide.

Future Developments: MSC World Asia

In addition to its entertainment lineup, MSC Cruises has announced details about its upcoming ship, MSC World Asia, designed explicitly for the Asian market and scheduled to launch in December 2026. The ship aims to capture the essence of Asia through culturally inspired design and art, debuting in the Western Mediterranean and later venturing into more tailored Asian itineraries.

In a statement, Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering new concepts, venues, and services across its fleet to enhance guest experiences while maintaining sustainable and enjoyable cruising options.

The introduction of enhanced onboard entertainment, paired with innovative ship designs and versatile itineraries, underscores MSC Cruises’ ambition to redefine shipboard experiences while appealing to varying guest preferences and demographics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Dirty Dancing: In Concert?

Dirty Dancing: In Concert is a live-to-film adaptation of the classic 1987 movie, featuring a mix of live musicians, singers, and dancers synchronized with on-screen performances, offering multiple showings during MSC Cruises sailings in summer 2025.

Which ships will feature Dirty Dancing: In Concert?

The show will debut on MSC Virtuosa in July 2025 and MSC World America beginning April 2025, catering to audiences sailing from Southampton and PortMiami, respectively.

What other entertainment options are available on MSC Virtuosa?

MSC Virtuosa will feature shows such as Songbook Abba, Starwalker, Hall of Fame, aerial performances, pop-up street theater, and LEGO-themed children’s activities during its summer 2025 itineraries.

What regions will MSC Virtuosa serve in 2025?

MSC Virtuosa will operate cruises to Northern Europe, Norwegian fjords, Spain, and the Canary Islands during the summer season, homeporting in Southampton, UK, before transitioning to the Caribbean for winter sailings.

What is MSC World Asia’s focus?

MSC World Asia, expected to launch in December 2026, is designed for the Asian market with culturally reflective designs. Its first itineraries will explore the Western Mediterranean and will later expand to include more Asia-specific destinations.