Queen Anne Introduces Paid Entry for Select Bright Lights Society Shows

Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne, has introduced charges for select live performances at its Bright Lights Society venue, a significant shift from the traditional all-inclusive cruising model. While the ship's main theater productions and other staple entertainment offerings remain complimentary, these new fees represent a targeted refinement of premium onboard experiences, reflecting broader industry trends.

Exclusive Entertainment at the Bright Lights Society

The Bright Lights Society aboard the Queen Anne offers an intimate, cabaret-style theater combined with a premium cocktail lounge ambiance. As of late May 2025, ticketed entry is required for three specific performances: Fizz, Noir, and Bitter Sweet Symphony. Cunard describes the venue as their "most immersive entertainment experience," designed to complement the ship’s signature luxury ethos.

Ticket Pricing and Inclusions

The entry fees for the Bright Lights Society performances are tiered and bundled with premium perks:

• Fizz and Noir: $20 per person, including a glass of champagne, a souvenir program, and service charges.
• Bitter Sweet Symphony: $46 per person, covering three cocktails and service charges.

Seating is limited, and reservations can be made via the My Voyage app or at the onboard Purser’s Office. To encourage responsible bookings, Cunard imposes cancellation and no-show fees of $5 for Fizz and Noir and $15 for Bitter Sweet Symphony.

Passenger Reactions to the Policy Change

Guest feedback has been varied since the introduction of these charges. Enthusiasts of the Bright Lights Society have praised the intimate setting and premium inclusions, with one passenger commenting, "It's worth every penny; the cast are very talented and entertaining." Others, however, have expressed dissatisfaction on social media, citing concerns over what they perceive as the "nickel-and-diming" of the cruise experience, mirroring broader frustrations about post-pandemic changes across the industry.

The shift emphasizes the trend toward a la carte pricing models in cruising, which other companies like Virgin Voyages have also embraced. This approach allows operators to bolster profitability while offering guests opportunities to tailor their cruise experiences.

Main Theatrical Productions Remain Complimentary

While charges apply to Bright Lights Society shows, Cunard has confirmed that large-scale productions in Queen Anne's Royal Court Theatre remain included in the cruise fare. These productions are part of the cruise line's legacy of offering world-class entertainment as a core experience without additional cost.

Cunard's Broader Evolution and the Queen Anne's Role

Launched in May 2025 after being built by the renowned Fincantieri shipyard, the Queen Anne accommodates approximately 3,000 passengers. As Cunard’s latest fleet addition, it introduces enhanced design elements, new dining venues, and signature amenities. Its itineraries include voyages to Northern Europe, the Atlantic Islands, and the Mediterranean, as well as annual world cruises departing from Southampton.

The Bright Lights Society represents just one aspect of Cunard's modernization efforts, balancing luxurious traditions with curated, premium offerings. Through innovations like this targeted entertainment pricing, the cruise line continues to adapt to evolving guest expectations while simultaneously creating options for more personalized onboard experiences.

Context within the Cruise Industry

Cruise lines across the industry have increasingly turned to supplemental charges for specialty services and amenities, spurred partly by post-pandemic operational challenges. Carnival, for example, has eliminated complimentary pizza service onboard, and Royal Caribbean recently introduced mandatory drink package purchases for all adults within a single cabin. These practices blur the cost distinctions between contemporary cruise lines and their more luxurious counterparts.

For travelers desiring a seamless, all-inclusive model, smaller premium lines, such as Azamara and Oceania, offer alternatives. These operators bundle amenities like Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and beverages into the upfront fare, catering to guests who prioritize value and exclusivity over expansive onboard attractions.

Nevertheless, changes like Cunard's reinforce the broader trade-off debate: customizable, pay-as-you-go experiences favoring premium, curated offerings versus the simplicity and predictability of traditional inclusivity. Traveler preferences will likely play a significant role in shaping cruise pricing trends in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are all shows on Queen Anne now charged?

No, the charges are limited to the Bright Lights Society venue's three premium performances: Fizz, Noir, and Bitter Sweet Symphony. Main theater productions and other traditional entertainment remain complimentary.

What amenities are included in the ticket prices for Bright Lights Society shows?

For Fizz and Noir, tickets ($20 per person) include a glass of champagne, a souvenir program, and service charges. For Bitter Sweet Symphony, tickets ($46 per person) include three cocktails and service charges.

How can guests book tickets for Bright Lights Society performances?

Reservations can be made through Cunard's My Voyage app or at the Purser's Office onboard. Early booking is advised due to the venue's limited seating capacity.

Do these policies apply to other Cunard ships or venues?

No, the entry fees currently apply only to the Bright Lights Society on Queen Anne. Cunard has not announced similar charges for entertainment on its other ships.

Can tickets be canceled, and are there fees for no-shows?

Cancellations are permitted, but late cancellations or no-shows incur fees: $5 for Fizz and Noir, and $15 for Bitter Sweet Symphony. These amounts are deducted as part of ensuring availability for other passengers.