hey tony cruise ship

The spectacular cruise where guests set sail with Anton Du Beke, Erin Boag, Tony Hadley and Brian Conley in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean cruise departs in 2025

By GB News Reporter

Published: 08/03/2024

Updated: 08/03/2024

Advertising feature - Step on board the glamorous Sky Princess® where you can visit must-see Mediterranean cities while sailing with celebrity superstars

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A new cruise where holidaymakers can sail with their favourite stars is available to book now with Imagine Cruising.

Step on board Sky Princess® with ballroom dancing legends Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag, 80’s icon Tony Hadley and legendary entertainer Brian Conley, available to book here .

Departing on May 3, 2025, the exciting cruise runs for 14 nights across the Mediterranean.

It will set sail from Southampton and visit beautiful spots in Spain, Italy, and France.

The holiday is available exclusively with Imagine Cruising and guests can enjoy perks including a complimentary Oceanview to Balcony upgrade for incredible prices, starting from £1,199pp and available to book here .

Begin the cruise by soaking up the sun in Valencia before experiencing the lively culture in Barcelona.

There is lots to keep guests entertained on board

IMAGINE CRUISING

The cruise will run for 14 nights

Relax at the Princess Live! Cafe

The holiday is available exclusively with Imagine Cruising

Next, cruisegoers will visit Italy where they can sip wine in Toulon, see the sights in Pisa and explore history and cuisine in Rome.

Finish the trip on the beautiful island of Sardinia before returning to port in Southampton.

Amid taking in new cities and enjoying the best cuisines in Europe, Britons can relax on a stylish ship that is equipped with luxurious amenities, varied dining options and world-class entertainment.

Entertainment

Cruisegoers will have exclusive access to shows with celebrity performances.

Enjoy a performance and intimate Q&A with dancing legends Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag, listen to the iconic vocals of Tony Hadley and sit back for an evening of entertainment with Brian Conley.

Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag first met in 1997 before turning professional in 2002.

The pair were chosen in 2004 to star in the first series of Strictly Come Dancing and their dancing has continued to impress fans on the small screen and stage ever since.

Legendary comedian, presenter and theatre star Brian Conley has performed in several award-winning West End musicals and TV sitcoms during his career.

He has proudly appeared on The Royal Variety Performance a record eight times and will provide an evening of unforgettable entertainment on board Sky Princess®.

Enjoy a performance and intimate Q&A with dancing legends Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag

Sit back for an evening of entertainment with Brian Conley

Listen to the iconic vocals of Tony Hadley

If that wasn't enough, guests can sit back and immerse themselves in the unmistakable vocals of Tony Hadley.

The singer has had numerous chart-topping singles and albums worldwide while part of the 80s New Romantic band Spandau Ballet.

As well as all-star appearances, world-class entertainment will be on offer for the duration of the trip including Broadway-style musical shows created by some of the world's top directors and choreographers.

Looking for something more relaxing? Guests can enjoy a cosy evening snuggled under blankets on deck watching the latest releases and movie classics at Movies Under the Stars®.

Tuck into flavours from around the world including fresh seafood, Southern BBQ, gourmet pasta and premium aged steaks.

It will set sail from Southampton and visit beautiful spots in Spain, Italy, and France

Take in Italian history in Rome

There are 17 restaurants, cafes, and snack bars to choose from.

Indulge in traditional family recipes created by Italian chefs at Sabatini's Italian Trattoria or unwind with a cocktail and some live jazz at the Take Five bar.

For more entertainment while you enjoy a tipple or two, visit the Princess Live! Café to see varied performances - including everything from comedy acts to talented artists.

Food is available on a full-board basis and cruisegoers can upgrade to a Princess Plus package.

For £50 per person per day, guests can upgrade to the Plus Beverage Package which gives unlimited drinks, including cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water and teas, among other beverages.

Gratuities and unlimited Wi-Fi are also included with this package.

The 14-day cruise sets sail from Southampton and includes a complimentary Oceanview to Balcony upgrade from £1,199pp.

The Mediterranean cruise departs on May 3, 2025 and visits Valencia, Barcelona, Toulon, Livorno, Civitavecchia and Sardinia.

Book here exclusively with Imagine Cruising .

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Earth, Wind & Fire

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Earth, Wind & Fire  is an American R&B and disco band formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1969 by Verdine and Maurice White. Also known as  EWF , the band has won six Grammy Awards and four American Music Awards. They have been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.  Rolling Stone  has described them as “innovative, precise yet sensual, calculated yet galvanizing” and has also declared that the band “changed the sound of black pop”. In 1998, they were ranked at number 60 on VH1’s list of the  100 Greatest Artists of Rock N’ Roll .

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 Chaka Khan is the latest woman to be inducted into the coveted Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023. She is a global music star that has served as an inspiration for generations of singers, songwriters, recording artists, storytellers, and musicians. 

Aside from being a singer, she is a distinguished songwriter, producer, visual artist, author, actress, humanitarian, activist, and mother. 

While her birth certificate may say Yvette Marie Stevens, in many ways, Chaka Khan is one of a kind. 

She is a trendsetter, a fighter, and a survivor. She redefined pop, soul, jazz, and funk, and has helped mold the contemporary music landscape into what it is today. 

Although Chaka has affectionately been referred to as the “Queen of Funk” and is also known as the “Empress of Funk, Rock and Soul,” she prefers to ditch the genre limiting monikers. After all, she has the rare ability to sing in eight different music genres, these include R&B/soul, pop, rock, gospel, country, world music, dance, and classical music. 

Chaka has developed a vast and loyal international fan base, and she has performed in six continents. 

Humble beginnings 

She grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and she was the eldest of four siblings. In her teenage years, Chaka and her sister, Bonnie, formed a vocal group, The Crystalettes, with two school friends. 

Chaka subsequently sang with several local bands before she became the lead singer for the band Ask Rufus, which would become Rufus, a group that would churn out hit after hit. 

She learned to trust her heart and instincts and follow her dreams from an early age. She caught the attention of Stevie Wonder, who wrote Rufus’ debut single “Tell Me Something Good.” 

This song earned Chaka and Rufus their first Grammy Award in the “Best R&B Vocal Performance by A Duo, Group or Chorus” category; moreover, it became a Top 5 hit single on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and the Billboard R&B songs charts. 

Rufus entertained audiences with sold-out concerts, and their smash hits include the ubiquitous “Ain’t Nobody,” “Once You Get Started,” “Sweet Thing,” “Do You Love What You Feel,” and “You Got the Love,” which was co-penned by Chaka and Ray Parker Jr. 

A Landmark Year 

2023 is a landmark year for Chaka. She celebrates her 50th anniversary in the music business, as well as her 70th birthday. 

An induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, class of 2023, solidifies her legacy as a musical powerhouse. With the once-in-a-lifetime performance at the ceremony, a dynamic medley of hits alongside H.E.R., Common, and Sia, stands as a testament to her generational influence within popular culture. She was bestowed the “Musical Excellence Award.” The prestigious acknowledgement recognizes artists, musicians, songwriters, and producers whose originality and influence have made an impact. 

“The Musical Excellence Award means a lot to me,” she said. “This meant even more to me than getting in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, especially just to have the words ‘musical excellence’ attached to my name.” 

Earlier this spring, on March 29, 2023, Chaka made a special appearance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as part of “Women’s History Month,” where she celebrated her golden anniversary in the music industry, and her 70th birthday. Five of her outfits from her music career are displayed in the “Legends of Rock” exhibit. 

For over five decades, Chaka has remained relevant as one of the mightiest and most influential voices in modern music. Her artistic work has stood the test of time, and it continues to inspire fellow recording artists, musicians, and fans alike. 

Chaka possesses a voice of seductive fire and sweet smoke. At the age of 18, she came to prominence with the innovative multiracial funk and rock group Rufus. Back in the 1970s, Chaka was the group’s secret weapon, and she was both fearless and feminine. 

Rufus is credited for being “funky, sexy and soul,” and they subsequently “made an indelible mark on a generation of music.” 

‘I’m Every Woman’ and other solo hits 

“I’m Every Woman” was her debut single from her solo album “Chaka,” which she released in 1978. It was Khan’s first hit outside of her recordings with the group Rufus. Her signature song “I’m Every Woman” is more than just a hit single and Grammy-nominated tune, it’s a lifestyle filled with positivity. 

As a solo recording artist, her other hits include “Clouds,” “What Cha’ Gonna Do for Me,” “Through the Fire” and “I Feel For You,” all of which have become pop, R&B/soul, and adult contemporary classics in their own right. 

Speaking of “I Feel For You,” which was written by Prince, it was her rendition that catapulted her to the stratosphere. It was one of the most popular songs of the ‘80s, and it made history by becoming the first R&B tune to feature a rap vocal (performed by Grandmaster Melle Mel). 

She also lent her powerhouse vocals on two of the biggest Grammy-winning songs of 1986: Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love” and Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love.” 

Chaka: The frequent collaborator 

Aside from being one of the world’s most distinctive artists, she is known as a perennial musical explorer and song stylist. She has collaborated with such 

diverse artists as Prince, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, and Ariana Grande to George Benson, Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, and Miles Davis. 

Her collaborative spirit has birthed so many musical gems. One that has become a musical trivia topic is that in 1999 Chaka’s voice became the voice for the theme song of the children’s television show “Reading Rainbow.” 

Chaka has also collaborated on countless film soundtracks over the years including “Love Me Still” from Spike Lee’s film, Clockers , “My Funny Valentine” on the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, “Missing You,” from the Set It Off soundtrack, and her Grammy Award winning performance of the Marvin Gaye classic, “What’s Goin’ On,” from the documentary film Standing in the Shadows of Motown . 

Chaka: The stage and theater performer 

In 1995, Chaka made her theater debut on London’s iconic West End, where she starred in “Mama I Want to Sing.” 

Seven years later, in 2002, she headlined “Signed, Sealed Delivered,” the musical based on the music and lyrics of Stevie Wonder. Then, in 2008, she made her way to Broadway, where she stepped into the leading role of Sophia in Oprah Winfrey’s Tony-nominated musical “The Color Purple.” 

10-time Grammy Winner 

With music and streaming sales in excess of 100 million units, Chaka’s mantel holds 10 Grammy Awards (and she has been nominated 22 times, three of which were as a band member of Rufus), and she is consistently listed as a musical influence for generations of young artists, especially women. 

“It is lovely to be recognized by your peers, where they think you are doing a good enough job that you deserve a Grammy. It would be nice, however, if that would affect my pay grade,” Chaka said with a sweet laugh. 

Influences 

One of her biggest musical influences, the late but great Aretha Franklin proclaimed Chaka as a “premier vocalist.” Another one of her greatest musical inspirations, Miles Davis, paid her what she considers to be a huge compliment when he acknowledged that “she sings like my horn.” 

Chaka was also inspired by the legend ary Sarah Vaughan, as well as folk rock star Joni Mitchell and R&B/soul pioneer St evie Wonder. 

Modern artists such as Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Janelle Monae, Lizzo, and Sam Smith have all cited Chaka as a musical influence. 

An eclectic discography 

In her respected and prolific career, Chaka has released 22 studio albums, 10 of which were certified gold and platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). 10 of her singles have catapulted to the top spot on the Billboard charts. 

Her recorded music has produced well over 2,000 catalog song placements. 

Her latest single “Woman Like Me” was released in July of 2022, and it raises awareness on self-respect for all women and encourages them to live in their own truths. 

“Life inspires my music. Love, breakups, and almost everything in life,” she said about her music and songwriting inspirations. 

The entrepreneur 

Aside from being an entertainer, she is also an entrepreneur. She is known for “Chakalates,” her gourmet chocolates, which she launched in 2004, as well as Khana Sutra, a fragrance collection, which includes candles, as well as room and linen sprays. 

The Chaka Khan Foundation 

In 1999, she founded the Chaka Khan Foundation, whose mission is to educate, inspire, and empower women and children to reach their full potential. 

It featured a variety of educational programs and initiatives to help women and children at risk, especially children with difficult backgrounds and autism. 

She is now relaunching her foundation and focusing initiatives on mental health and wellbeing. 

With this foundation, she is able to make a huge difference, and help people, especially children, on a higher scale. She is a firm believer that “the arts, music, and mental health are all very important, especially for our youth.” 

In return, Chaka feels that “giving is better than receiving,” so she is happiest when she is doing something for somebody else. 

Chaka: The bestselling author 

Chaka’s life story and her music career was profiled in her autobiography “Through the Fire,” which was published in 2003 via Rodale Books. 

Her memoir “Through the Fire” is a candid account of the trials and tribulations she went through in her life and music career. She is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable and opens up about her substance abuse, where she offers optimism and encouragement for her fans and readers. She refers to “walking through life” as a metaphor of “walking through the fire” accordingly. 

Dr. Chaka Khan: Honorary Doctorate Recipient 

In December of 2004, Chaka was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Music from the Berklee College of Music in Boston for her services and accomplishments in contemporary music and for her philanthropy. 

“A lot of kids get sidetracked and feel like they should put on some booty shorts, and do the song, and that’s sad. That’s one of the things that bothers me and makes me sad about this business. I always also remind kids to go to college because they are always hiring at the post office, and somebody has to work the computers,” she told young and aspiring artists. 

Chaka’s Awards and Accolades 

Chaka has been the recipient of countless well-deserved accolades and awards. Notable acheivements include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, an induction into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, the Soul Train Legend Award, the BET Lifetime Achievement Award and Triumph Award, the World Music Lifetime Achievement Award, the United Negro College Fund’s “An Evening of Stars” Tribute, and a Grammy Honors Award from the NARAS Chicago Chapter. 

Her Chicago hometown also honored her with “Chaka Khan Way,” a street in her name, and Sunday, July 28, 2013, was officially declared “Chaka Khan Day.” 

Personal life 

Chaka has lived for a time in both London and Germany, as well as New York. She now resides in California. She is the mother of two children, daughter Indira Milini and son Damien Holland. 

Chaka is a true renaissance woman who can use her music and her book as a vessel to help spread her radio energy and indomitable spirit with the rest of the globe. 

“Thank you for hanging in there with me for all these years. I hope I brought somebody some joy, some truth, and some love,” she told her dedicated fans. 

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Bobby Brown

Bobby Brown, born in Boston in 1969, is an iconic American singer, actor, and former member of the R&B group New Edition. He shot to solo stardom with his 1988 album “Don’t Be Cruel,” featuring chart-topping hits like “My Prerogative” and “Every Little Step,” and left an indelible mark on the music world by blending R&B with hip-hop, pop, and funk. Beyond music, he ventured into acting and garnered media attention for his high-profile marriage to Whitney Houston. Brown’s enduring influence on contemporary R&B solidifies his status as a beloved and influential figure in the music industry.

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Durrell Artaze Babbs, known by his stage name Tank, is a highly influential R&B singer and songwriter hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born on January 1, 1976, Tank has solidified his status as a prominent figure in the realm of contemporary R&B. With his soulful and emotionally charged vocals, he has cultivated a dedicated fan base and garnered critical acclaim. Beginning his music career in the late 1990s, Tank has consistently delivered a series of chart-topping albums and hit singles, including tracks like “Maybe I Deserve,” “Please Don’t Go,” and “When We.” Renowned for his unique ability to seamlessly fuse smooth, seductive melodies with heartfelt lyrics, Tank remains a respected and enduring presence in the world of R&B, continuously shaping the genre with his distinctive voice and artistic versatility.

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Jeffrey Bruce Atkins  (born February 29, 1976) a leap year child, better known by his stage name  Ja Rule , is an American rapper. Born and raised in Hollis Queens. Atkins began his rap career in 1994 with the hip hop group Cash Money Click alongside members Chris Black and O-1. He took the stage name “Ja Rule”. Together they worked with DJ Irv to produce a number of songs, releasing their debut single  “ Get Tha Fortune “  independently in 1994. In 1998 he wrote a single which was picked up and recorded with Jay- Z “ Can I Get A ” which was featured on the Rush Hour Soundtrack.

Ja Rule has received many accolades for his musical endeavors – 2002 he received the BET Award for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist – from GQ he won the Musician of the Year – MTV Best Hip-Hop Video – NAACP Image Awards, he won for Best Rap/Hip-Hop Artist. As an artist, he has always been generous and has many respective collaborators most notable Ashanti, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J Blige, Jay-z, DMX, R. Kelly, Bobby Brown, Missy Elliot, Christina Milian, Charli Baltimore, Black Child, Caddilac Tah Murda, Lil Mo, Vita and Case to name a few.  

Following the release of his debut album “ Venni Vetti Vecci ” (1999), and its lead single “ Holla Holla ”, the album was Certified Platinum July 1999. He released his respective second album “ Rule 3:36 ” (2000), the album was a commercial success, selling 276,000 copies during its first week of release and debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. Kicking off chart topping hits “ Between Me and You ”, “ Put It On Me “and “ I Cry ”. He followed this with a couple of singles with Jennifer Lopez “ I’m Real ” – “ I’m Real – Murder Remix ” and “ Ain’t That Funny “ all of which placed in Billboard top 20. His 3 rd released album came right behind this successful movement in October 2001 titled “ Pain Is Love ” on this album he delivered “ Living It Up ”, “ Down Ass Chick ” and the Billboard No 1 hit “ Always On Time ”. Both albums topped the US  Billboard  200 album chart, launching him into the mainstream, selling over a combined 15 million units to a worldwide audience. Ja Rule followed up with his respective fourth, fifth and sixth albums “ The Last Temptation”  (2002), “ Blood in My Eye”  (2003), and “ R.U.L.E ”.  (2004), with “ The Last Temptation”  attaining platinum status and “ R.U.L.E. “ reaching gold status. As of 2018, Ja Rule has sold 14.4 million units in the US and has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

In between his very successful music career he was able to work on 4 Movie Soundtracks and about 20 movies. Most Notable “Fast and the Furious”, “Cookout”, “Scary Movie”, “Assault on Precinct 13”, “Cookout 2” and “I’m In Love with a Church Girl” to name a few as well as many TV shows Most notable “Follow the Rules” and “Growing up Hip Hop – New York”,  

In 2023, Ja Rule is the curator of the Iconic Vibes concert series, which celebrates the legendary Rappers in a signature one night only live band performance, which can be viewed on his https://iconn.live/ or in your App store. He is involved in bringing his Roses Wines to consumers and is instrumental in the creative for other products in development currently, Ja Rule is an Innovative Creative Entertainer whom we most certainly have not heard everything from yet.    

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Kirk Franklin

With a celebrated career spanning 30 years, Kirk Franklin continues to make a profound mark on the music industry. The eclectic 19-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist, songwriter, music producer, and television and film producer has successfully bridged the gap between gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and pop as he continues to take his career and craft to new levels. It’s no doubt that Franklin’s God-given talent and deep faith have helped him remain the influential, relevant, and visionary he is today.

Franklin is back with his 14 th and most personal and reflective studio album yet, titled Father’s Day. The album, slated to be released in early October from his RCA-distributed label, Fo Yo Soul Recordings, is a collection of 10 inspirational, beautifully curated tracks (all written by Franklin) with the constant theme of love, faith, and resilience flowing through them. Father’s Day will be accompanied by a short film that will be released a few days before the album and provide a deeper context to what Father’s Day means for Franklin.

Making the album wasn’t exactly easy for the artist. While creating Father’s Day , the man Franklin grew up thinking was his father (whom he didn’t have the best relationship with) passed away, and shortly after that, he discovered his real biological father after a series of DNA tests. This was one of the most traumatic experiences Franklin had to go through, and someone else in the same position might have faltered. But for Franklin, who had his fair share of ups and downs throughout his life, his music and heavenly father God helped him get through this latest storm and also helped him come up with the name of the album. “I have no idea how I was able to finish this album with all that was going on at the time. But I know that I would have been in an even worse troubling state if I wasn’t working on it. Father’s Day gave me an escape and an emotional outlet,” he admits.

The lead single, “All Things,” released in May 2023 with an official video, is a bold, upbeat, soul-stirring track that is a reminder that God is what makes everything and all things possible. The second single, “Try Love,” which will be released in late August, is an uplifting song with a rousing chorus that goes: “ This is your day love/This is the day that you can’t give away love/ I’ve been waiting all day love/Waiting for your embrace love,” before switching gears midway into a funky R&B throwback. “Needs” is an authentic, comforting gospel ballad that delves into the need of God in one’s life. Gospel royalty such as Chandler Moore, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, and Jekalyn Carr join Franklin on the exhilarating track “Again,” while Kelontae Gavin and Maranda Curtis lend their vocals to its sequel “Again & Again,” with both songs rejoicing in how no matter what, God will continuously move mountains for you. Franklin closes out the album with “Somebody’s Son” a deeply moving and touching song where he candidly expresses the heartbreak and pain he’s felt throughout his life (especially most recently) due      to the familial trauma he’s endured.

Franklin hopes the album resonates with people and gives them permission to accept the highs and lows of life while still understanding that God is always there for them. “For many people, the image of God is Him always keeping score of their wrongdoings. So there’s some fear when it comes to their relationship with God,” he says. “I hope this album is a stripped-down, honest conversation about the difficulty of the life journey and how life can be messy, nuanced, and a matter of trial and error even for those who subscribe to faith. But it’s all wrapped in a bow of love, and that love doesn’t always make sense, but is always constant.”

Since bursting onto the scene in 1993 with the release of his critically acclaimed debut album Kirk Franklin & The Family, Franklin has blessed the world with hit after hit, a bevy of award-winning, lauded albums (in addition to multiple GRAMMYs, he has garnered nearly 40 Stellar Awards and is a 22-time Dove Award winner), and a plethora of epic collaborations with artists such as Mariah Carey, Lil’ Baby, Chance the Rapper, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato, Khalid, and Michael Jackson. His most recent album, Kingdom Book One (Tribl Records, Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, and RCA Inspiration), a live, collaboration album with the gospel group Maverick City Music, was recorded at the Everglades Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade, Florida, to raise awareness on the injustice of mass incarceration and debuted at number two on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart and the Top Gospel Albums chart. The album also received three GRAMMY Awards, a BET Award, and NAACP Image Award. In March 2023, Franklin made history by spending 100 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Songwriters Chart and becoming the first person to reach the 100-week milestone on a songwriters chart.

In addition to his music awards and accolades, Franklin’s 2022 tour with Maverick City Music broke records as one of the highest-grossing tours in the history of gospel and Christian contemporary music. This fall, Franklin will hit the road again with The Reunion Tour, which will feature Israel Houghton, David and Tamela Mann, Tye Tribbett, and The Clark Sisters, and kick off in Boston with stops in 29 cities across the country.

Making hit records and selling out concerts isn’t the only thing Franklin has mastered. He has served as an executive producer for two popular holiday films such as Kirk Franklin’s The Night Before Christmas in 2022 and Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas in 2021 and also served as an executive producer for the BET+ television series “Kingdom Business” in 2022, which was renewed for a second season. In addition to that, Franklin and his wife, Tammy Franklin, premiered their new dating series “The One,” on TV One this past May and served as co-hosts and executive producers. Franklin is now shopping a few more projects around and plans to continue working on unscripted and scripted programming. “I’ve been very excited about being part of these projects,” says Franklin. “I still enjoy doing music, but I’m very grateful to be used by God to bring his name to the conversation and use the vehicle of entertainment to do it.”

For Kirk Franklin, his iconic songs, unforgettable verses, and undeniable showmanship have made him the star and household name he is. Still, he remains humble and extremely grateful to be blessed to share his passion for music with the world. Right now he is in the healing process, and the music gives him the strength to persevere. And yes, the past several months have been a trying time for the renowned artist, but at the same time he is excited about the release of Father’s Day . “The Lord has been super kind to me. This album is an opportunity for me to escape and an opportunity to communicate what I may not always emotionally be able to say,” he says. “This album has been a lifesaver God has blessed me with, and I am truly grateful.”

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Method Man & Redman

Method Man & Redman (also referred to as Meth & Red, Red & Mef, John Blaze and Funk Doc or Funk Doctor Spock and Johnny Blaze) are an American hip hop duo, composed of East Coast rappers Method Man (of Wu-Tang Clan) and Redman (of Def Squad). They are signed to Def Jam Recordings both as solo artists and as a duo.

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Ashanti is a GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter, actor and author, who burst onto the music scene with her smash hit, self-titled debut album Ashanti. The album landed the #1 spot on both the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts, selling a whopping 504,593 units in its first week and set a SoundScan record as the most albums sold by any debut female artist in the chart’s history, granting her a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records, which she still holds today. Ashanti has released six studio albums and received eight Billboard Awards, a GRAMMY, two American Music Awards, two Soul Train Awards, six ASCAP Awards, and many more awards and illustrious honors. Ashanti has continued to reign at the top as one of Billboard’s “Top Females of the Decade from 2000-2010” and continues to break Billboard records as having a Hot 100 entry in the 2000’s, 2010’s and 2020’s.

In 2005, Ashanti made her telefilm debut starring as Dorothy in The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz , opposite Miss Piggy and Kermit. She also starred in the Disney animated series The Proud Family and continued to receive roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Army Wives , Sabrina, the Teenage Witch , and portrayed Dionne Warwick on NBC’s American Dreams . She has also played herself and performed on the hit TV series, Vegas .

In her feature film debut in Coach Carter , Ashanti co-starred with Samuel L. Jackson, and the film was a #1 box office hit. Ashanti’s other film credits include Resident Evil Extinction, John Tucker Must Die and Bollywood film Bride & Prejudice . Ashanti executive produced, starred in the musical drama and feature film STUCK , released April 2019. She also executive produced the feature film Mothers and Daughters , starring Sharon Stone, Susan Sarandon, Mira Sorvino and more.

Ashanti recently starred in Honey Girls , in partnership with Build-A-Bear Entertainment and Sony Pictures’ rom-com The Plus One , that she will Executive Produce and star in, alongside Cedric the Entertainer, released September 29, 2023. Ashanti will also star in No Address , a film about a group of people that are experiencing homelessness and realize they must bond together as a family if they are going to survive, to be released in 2024.

Ashanti has built her brand with several major partnerships and has her own fragrance, “Precious Jewel” with AMC Beauty, American Express, Shea Moisture and Ciroc, to name a few. Her endorsements include Herbal Essences , where she is the first African American to land a national campaign, and Candies Apparel . She launched her clothing line in collaboration with Miss Circle and partnered with Pretty Little Thing to create her own swimsuit line “Ashanti.”

She has written her first book of poetry through Hyperion titled Foolish/Unfoolish: Reflections on Love and released her first children’s book, My Name Is A Story , with Harper Collins on July 12, 2022. My Name Is A Story was voted, “2023 Best Children’s Book” by the African American Literary Awards.

To celebrate her contributions to music and recording, Ashanti received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 7, 2022.

FOLLOW ASHANTI ON SOCIAL

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🌏 Events & Activities

Tony Evans 2022 Alaska Cruise

• Aug 6, 2022 to Aug 13, 2022
• Location: Departing: Seattle, WA
• Latest Activity: Feb 21, 2022

Join this Unforgettable Christian Cruise to Alaska with The Urban Alternative and Tony Evans

7-day cruise itinerary, the scenic variety you’ll encounter in america’s 49th state is unlike any destination on earth. from the deep green tongass national forest to snow-capped mountains to humpback whales to awe-inspiring glaciers, few places evidence god’s creative power like the stunning wilderness of coastal of alaska., departing: seattle, wa (saturday, august 6, 2022), embarkation:  11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.  depart:  4:00 p.m. explore the gorgeous ship you’ll call home for the next week, and enjoy your first of many exquisite dinners while meeting the other travelers on your cruise. together, you’ll open your week in worship and fellowship in anticipation of all that god will do..

STEPHENS PASSAGE (SCENIC CRUISING)

JUNEAU, ALASKA 

August 8, 1:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m..

GLACIER BAY (SCENIC CRUISING) 

August 9, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m..

ICY STRAIT POINT, ALASKA

August 9, 6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m..

SITKA, ALASKA

August 10, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m..

KETCHIKAN, ALASKA 

August 11, 7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m..

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA 

August 12, 7:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m., concluding: seattle, wa (saturday, august 13, 2022), arrive: 7:00 a.m. debarkation: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. all dates and locations subject to change..

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit 

https://www.inspirationcruises.com/christian-cruises/urban-alternative-alaska-2022

Dear Friend: Alaska. It’s one of the most beautiful places on earth, an unspoiled paradise where you can see the magnificent creativity of God on full display. From the majestic mountain peaks, to the mighty forests and green meadows teeming with wildlife, to the spectacular ice floes—it all speaks forcefully of the glory of God. Now you can experience it all with me. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of God’s creation, to receive some great teaching and to worship God in an incredible setting. This spiritually uplifting cruise will be a wonderful adventure for both body and soul, and I’m inviting friends of the ministry to join me. I’ll be teaching along with other gifted teachers and there will be life-changing worship and performances from gifted musicians, as well as the opportunity to spend time with people who have a passion for God. Plus, we’re building in plenty of time for rest and relaxation on a cruise that will pamper you with luxurious accommodations, incredible meals from talented chefs and a large variety of leisure experiences to choose from. So, join me for a time to relax, refresh and refocus your life. It will be a time of personal healing and spiritual significance—all in the extraordinary splendor of God’s creation. Please join me for an exploration of the pristine beauty of Alaska from the comfort of a top-quality cruise ship. Can’t wait to see you on board!

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Spreading Laughter and Love: Hey Tony TV’s Hilarious Journey to Brighten Lives

( ENSPIRE Feature ) Hey Tony TV’s Wholesome Humor Making Waves Unleashing Giggles and Unity

In the realm of social media, influencers play a significant role in shaping trends, inspiring others, and creating connections. One such influencer who has captured the hearts of many with his humor, relatability, and positive spirit is Hey Tony TV also known as Antonio Neville. With his unique blend of comedy and relatable skits, Hey Tony TV has garnered a devoted following, proving that laughter truly is the best medicine.

Witnessing individuals who bravely navigate their identity struggles and openly share their stories can be incredibly empowering. When we see others overcome their identity issues, it has the potential to ignite a sense of courage within ourselves. I had the privilege of meeting Tony during the Black Owned Media weekend in Tulsa, OK, an event hosted by BOMESI. Tony’s presence on a panel dedicated to discussing Black storytelling in LGBTQ media alongside Ryan Mitchell showcased his willingness to candidly address his personal journey.

Tony’s revelation about his experience of coming out and being true to himself holds a powerful message. His words, “In the process of making the world happy, I was not making myself happy,” resonate deeply. This realization underscores the significance of authenticity and the impact it has on our overall well-being. Tony’s honesty serves as a reminder that embracing our true selves is not only liberating but also vital for our happiness and mental health.

Witnessing someone face their fears and overcome challenges provides a sense of solidarity and encouragement. It reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles and that there is strength in vulnerability.

Tony’s presence on the panel and his candid sharing of his personal experiences not only highlight the importance of authenticity but also create a ripple effect of inspiration. When one person steps forward to be their true self, it can embolden others to do the same. Tony’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one’s identity, and it encourages us all to live authentically, unapologetically, and with a renewed sense of purpose.

June was not just a month of vibrant celebrations, but also an opportunity for Hey Tony TV to connect with his fans on a more personal level. Through a spirited meet-and-greet event during Pride Month, he brought his online community together in a memorable and meaningful way. This event showcased the genuine connection he has fostered with his followers, highlighting the impact he has on their lives beyond the screen.

Hey Tony TV’s journey to becoming a comedic influencer is a testament to his ability to find humor even in life’s challenges. With every skit, he invites us into his world, using humor as a tool to navigate the complexities of modern life. From everyday situations to impersonating various characters, Hey Tony TV’s content resonates with audiences of all backgrounds, reminding us that laughter is universal.

What sets Hey Tony TV apart is his remarkable ability to make the ordinary feel extraordinary. By addressing everyday scenarios and weaving them into his comedic sketches, he not only showcases his comedic prowess but also highlights the shared human experience. The laughter he elicits comes from a place of recognition, uniting us through the hilariously relatable aspects of life.

In a world that can often feel divided and stressful, Hey Tony TV’s approach to comedy brings a refreshing dose of positivity. His content not only uplifts spirits but also promotes inclusivity and unity. By impersonating a diverse range of people and situations, he breaks down barriers and encourages us to see the humor in our differences, fostering understanding and empathy.

Hey Tony TV’s journey reminds us of the power of laughter to transcend barriers, bridge gaps, and uplift spirits. His skits are not just comedic gold but also an invitation to embrace life’s imperfections with a smile. Through his authentic and relatable approach, he has cultivated a community that finds solace, connection, and joy in his content.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of social media and online influence, Hey Tony TV stands out as a beacon of light, using laughter as a force for good. His journey is a reminder that in a world that sometimes seems daunting, a little laughter can go a long way in spreading positivity, forging connections, and making a meaningful impact. So, the next time you need a dose of humor and a reminder that life’s challenges can be transformed into moments of joy, make sure to check out Hey Tony TV’s uproarious content at heytonytv.com .

You can laugh with the rest of us and follow Antonio here .

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Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Tony Award-Nominated "Beetlejuice" to Debut Aboard Its Newest Innovative Ship Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced “Beetlejuice” The Musical as the headline production aboard its newest groundbreaking ship, Norwegian Viva , along with the ship’s full lineup of onboard entertainment offerings debuting August 2023. 

Marking the first time the Tony Award ® -nominated musical will be performed at sea, the 90-minute Broadway adaptation of Tim Burton’s iconic 1988 film narrates the story of the Deetz family as they attempt to remodel an uproariously haunted house. The musical’s paranormal antics will be heightened by NCL’s three-story multi-purpose Viva Theatre & Club and its immersive special effects and cutting-edge lighting and audio.

David J. Herrera, incoming president of Norwegian Cruise Line said, "NCL has a history of pioneering the cruise experience and delivering the high-caliber entertainment programming our guests expect.  We are dedicated to pushing the envelope, delivering on those expectations, and putting our guests first as we elevate our onboard offerings for the ultimate vacation at sea.  This summer, I cannot wait to bring the fun and nostalgia of 'Beetlejuice' to our all-new Norwegian Viva."

NCL has a history of pioneering the cruise experience and delivering the high-caliber entertainment programming our guests expect. We are dedicated to pushing the envelope, delivering on those expectations, and putting our guests first as we elevate our onboard offerings for the ultimate vacation at sea. This summer, I cannot wait to bring the fun and nostalgia of 'Beetlejuice' to our all-new Norwegian Viva.  

NCL’s Senior Vice President of Entertainment and Cruise Programming, Richard Ambrose, adds, “We pride ourselves on not only delivering amazing performances for theater fans but introducing guests to Broadway and West End-caliber shows, which are made even more special by the incredible setting of the Viva Theatre & Club that seamlessly transforms from a best-in-class theater experience to an expansive nightclub.”

The elaborate "Beetlejuice" production will charm and captivate guests as performers dance and sing along to show tune classics including "Day-O," and "Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora)," while also reveling in the nostalgia from the pop culture classic film. Michelle D'Amico, who was a cast member of the Broadway production of "Beetlejuice" will join Norwegian Viva playing the role as "Lydia" for the first-at-sea rendition.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its unwavering commitment to bringing world-class productions to the high seas, having previously debuted shows including "Six," "Jersey Boys," "Footloose" and more across its current 18 - ship fleet. This announcement also comes on the heels of the wildly popular debut of "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," aboard Norwegian Prima, which featured a show-stopping performance from "American Idol" season two finalist, Kimberley Locke, during its 2022 inaugural season.

We pride ourselves on not only delivering amazing performances for theater fans but introducing guests to Broadway and West End-caliber shows, which are made even more special by the incredible setting of the Viva Theatre & Club that seamlessly transforms from a best-in-class theater experience to an expansive nightclub.

After the successful debut of one of the world's most iconic game shows, "The Price is Right LIVE," aboard Norwegian Prima last year, Norwegian Viva will also offer a live game show experience with the cruise industry's first "Press Your Luck LIVE" at-sea. The immersive experience invites the audience to be part of the classic show and win incredible grand prizes.

The palatial Viva Theater & Club features sophisticated special effects, a multi-story video wall, a show-stopping chandelier and VIP lounge seating, making it the ideal venue for Vegas-style night club events, such as “Ocean Music Fest,” the ultimate jam session where multiple musicians merge their talents on one stage for a world-class immersive concert. 

Norwegian Viva will also feature returning guest favorites, including "Improv @ Sea" Comedy Club; "Syd Norman's Pour House," which features rock-and-roll tributes to Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, and other legendary artists of the Classic Rock genre; and more. 

Norwegian Viva is the second of six vessels in the Cruise Line’s highly anticipated  Prima Class , the Brand's first new class of ships in nearly 10 years. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world class cuisine, the Brand's most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway-the three-level racetrack. Boasting nine new dining and beverage options, guests can sample cuisines from around the world by visiting Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; or enjoy the elevated menus at Hudson's, the complimentary restaurant overlooking 270-degrees of ocean views. Norwegian Viva also features the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush, and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar with Metropolitan Bar.  Debuting in August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December for a season of Caribbean itineraries.

For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line's award-winning 18-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com .

Princess Cruises Anticipates Welcoming Guests Back Onboard with Enthusiastic Majestic Princess Captains & Teammates with More Than 100 Years’ Experience

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., (July 13,   2021) – When Princess guests embark Majestic Princess next week, they will be warmly welcomed by the ship’s Captain, senior officers and crew who are highly anticipating hosting guests for the first time in 16 months.

Previously announced, the cruise line is slated to return to service in the United States with a partial season of Alaska sailings roundtrip from Seattle, with seven-day cruises scheduled to depart July 25 through September 26,   2021, onboard Majestic Princess.

Captain Dino Sagani and Captain Tony Draper will trade off at the helm of Majestic Princess, leading a senior officer team with more than 100 years of seagoing experience among them.

Captain Dino Sagani has served Princess Cruises for 26 years and had the privilege of being named the master of Majestic Princess when the ship first debuted in 2017. Captain Sagani has commanded a number of Princess vessels, including Sea Princess, Dawn Princess, Sapphire Princess, Diamond Princess, Caribbean Princess, Golden Princess and served as relief captain for Royal Princess and Regal Princess. He was born in Trieste on the Northeast Adriatic coast of Italy. Following the family tradition, he studied at the Nautical College in Trieste, which is one of the oldest nautical schools in Europe. On completion of his studies, he joined the Italian Navy, serving on a minehunter during the first Gulf War. He then joined Princess Cruises in 1995, where he quickly climbed the ranks and was promoted to Captain in 2007 at the age of 37.

Captain Tony Draper has been in command of a number of the cruise line’s vessels since 2006, including the inaugural of Royal Princess in 2013, where he had the distinct honor of hosting the ship’s Godmother, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge. He has also been Fleet Captain and has captained Ruby Princess, Emerald Princess, Crown Princess, Caribbean Princess, Dawn Princess, Sun Princess and Coral Princess, as well as ships for sister company P&O Australia. He began his seagoing career with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the civilian-manned supply and logistics division of the UK’s Royal Navy. In 1994, he not only gained his Master’s Certificate but also achieved a UK commercial pilot’s license, reflecting his lifelong interest in aviation. In 1995, he joined Princess as Navigator of the original Island Princess.

Chief Engineer Massimiliano Imperiale, Hotel General Manager Charles Verwaal and Staff Captain Petar Lešić complete the leadership team.

“On behalf of the entire Majestic Princess team, we couldn’t be more excited to be the first to welcome our guests back on board to reconnect and help them create lasting memories and connections,” said Captain Sagani. “We’ve been anticipating this moment for 16 months and we’re ready to deliver our world-class service and highly personalized MedallionClass experience.”

Princess MedallionClass Vacation

A significant part of the guest services experience includes the cruise line’s effortless and personalized Princess MedallionClass vacation.

Majestic Princess offers TrulyTouchless™ experiences with more ways to support physical distancing and personalization   that simplifies the guest experience and delivers next-level service   supporting new health protocols.  

The cruise line’s award-winning OceanMedallion   wearable device replaces the traditional cruise card and pairs with embedded IoT (“Internet of things”) - driven innovative technology to significantly expand touch-free options and personalization on board   Majestic Princess. The cruise line just announced CrewCall TM  service on demand is available on stateroom TVs as well as the MedallionClass app and leverages the innovative OceanMedallion wearable to guide a crew member to a guest’s exact location to be of service to the guest. Additional features include:

• Touchless embarkation and disembarkation  
• Keyless stateroom entry  
• Completely contactless commerce  
• Simplified safety training  
• On-demand food, beverages and retail items delivered anywhere on board  
• Guest service requests via mobile device chat  
• Location-based gaming and wagering
• Entertainment content via smart devices  

Majestic Princess offers the best Wi-Fi at sea, MedallionNet™, so guests can stay connected to the things and people they love and share vacation memories with ease.   MedallionNet offers unprecedented connectivity that’s fast, unlimited, reliable, and affordable with an access point in every stateroom, so guests can stream favorite movies, shows, games and music; connect to favorite social media sites; and video chat from anywhere on the ship. 

Cruise with Confidence

The 2021 Princess Alaska cruises are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination. Crew vaccinations will be in accordance with CDC guidelines.

As of now and subject to   change as CDC guidance, medical,   and public health guidance   evolves,   the   line’s   Cruise Health   program   provides steps to enhance public health.   Please check regularly, as there will be updates as new procedures are finalized   and existing protocols may evolve.

Updates to the cruise line’s   Cruise with Confidence   program are   also   being implemented, providing peace of mind for booked guests who may encounter an unexpected trip cancellation or interruption due to COVID-19.   Guests can cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure   and receive   a   Future Cruise Credit for any cancellation fees and a refund of additional funds received to the original payment method. As an enhanced benefit,   guests may cancel and receive the same Future Cruise Credit and refund   within 30 days   all the way to sailing day if they test positive for COVID-19.   Full details can be found   here .  

Alaska 2021 cruises   can be booked   through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at  www.princess.com .

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New NYC to Bahamas Cruise Features Broadway's Top Stars

The broadway cruise will set on its maiden voyage from new york city to bermuda next year, by mark kennedy • published june 21, 2022 • updated on june 22, 2022 at 7:39 am.

The maiden voyage of a cruise ship starring a boatload of musical theater stars — like Tony Award-winners Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Alan Cumming and Lena Hall — will set sail next spring.

The Broadway Cruise  — heading roundtrip from New York City to Bermuda, from March 31-April 5, 2023 — will also feature Tony-nominees Joshua Henry, Taylor Louderman and Jeremy Jordan, as well as Broadway favorites Randy Rainbow and Sierra Boggess.

Producers promise “intimate and grand scale shows and cabarets from Broadway’s coolest talent” as well as “tips and techniques from some of the best and brightest creative talent working today.”

Tony-nominated scenic designer David Korins will discuss his creative process when designing settings for the stage and Tony-nominated choreographer Kelly Devine will discuss the art of the dance. Chris Jahnke will serve as music director.

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The cruise will borrow the Norwegian Gem, which accommodates 2,000 people. Cabin prices begin at $1,165 per person. The trip was delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Cruise ships were an early source of outbreaks at the start of the pandemic. The CDC issued a no-sail order in March 2020, prompting a standstill that ended in June 2021 as cruise ships began to leave U.S. ports with new health and safety requirements.

All guests 12 and over — and all artists and crew — aboard The Broadway Cruise are required to be fully vaccinated and present proof of vaccination to board.

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From “Glee” and Cruise Ships to Historic Tony Winners: Meet Alex Newell and J. Harrison Ghee

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J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell made history during the 76 th Tony Awards on Sunday when they became the first two openly nonbinary actors to win the coveted Broadway award in two of the acting categories.

Ghee won the Tony for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for their performance in Some Like it Hot , while Newell took home the award for Best Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical for their role in Shucked . It was the first Tony nomination for both performers.

“Thank you for seeing me, Broadway,” Newell said at the ceremony . “To anyone that thinks they can’t do it, I’m going to look you dead in your face [and say] that you can do anything you put your mind to.”

At a time when several states are pursuing legislation affecting medical care, bathroom access, and sports participation for transgender people, the victories of Ghee and Newell are seen as an important landmark moment for the LGBTQ community.

“For every trans, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming human who ever was told you couldn’t be, you couldn’t be seen, this is for you,” Ghee said during their acceptance speech. Read on to learn more about the barrier-breaking lives and careers of both performers.

Who is Alex Newell?

Prior to their Tony win, Newell was best known for their role as Unique Adams on the Fox musical series Glee . They also starred as Asaka in the Broadway revival of Once on This Island in 2017.

Newell was 6 when their father died of cancer , leaving their single working mother to raise Newell in Massachusetts. Without ever having taken formal voice lessons, Newell was among about 34,000 people who submitted an audition tape for The Glee Project , a reality television series in which contestants competed for a role on the hit musical comedy series.

Newell made it onto the show and finished as a runner-up, but the Glee producers were so impressed that they were cast in a two-episode part as Wade “Unique” Adams, the show’s first transgender character. Newell portrayed Wade as a shy teen who comes out of her shell through an outspoken and confident alter ego named Unique.

Newell was widely praised for their portrayal of one of network television’s first transgender characters. After conservative critics like Bill O’Reilly condemned the character, Newell responded : “When people don’t understand something, their first reaction is to hate it. But [the LGBT community] isn’t going away. We’re a part of everyday life, and people need to be educated.”

Following Glee , Newell launched a successful career as an actor and singer, touring with fellow Glee castmate Adam Lambert and releasing original songs, including the well-received single “This Ain’t Over.” They made their Broadway debut as a god named Asaka in the 2017 revival of Once on This Island , a musical set in the French Antilles.

In 2020, Newell began co-starring in the NBC musical series Zoe’s Extraordinary Playlist . Two years later, they originated the role of Lulu in Shucked , a musical about a couple in a rural Midwestern town forced to postpone their wedding when the corn crop goes bad. Supporting character Lulu is a local whiskey distiller.

Variety called Newell’s character the show’s “undeniable breakout,” and The New York Times said she “bring[s] down the house” with her showstopping song “Independently Owned,” which the newspaper described as a “feminist anthem.”

Who is J. Harrison Ghee?

Ghee was no stranger to Broadway before their Tony-winning turn in Some Like it Hot , having originated the role of Andre Mayem in Mrs. Doubtfire and winning praise as Lola in Kinky Boots .

“There are pictures of me at age 3 with a mike in hand, singing,” Ghee said . “It’s what I’ve always done. Music is my safe place. It’s where I can express myself. It’s where I can live, and thrive, and inspire, and encourage, and do so many things. Music is my life.”

Raised in North Carolina by a Southern Baptist pastor father, Ghee was bullied in school for their effeminate mannerisms. Ghee attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. After first learning about drag clothing by watching RuPaul on VH1, they first tried drag themselves after playing a female wrestler in college.

Ghee first started performing professionally at the Tokyo Disney Resort and on cruise ships, continuing to perform in drag and develop their drag persona, Crystal Demure . When they landed the part of drag queen Lulu in Kinky Boots , the producers had no idea they were already a professional drag queen in real life.

“I feel invincible when I’m in drag,” Ghee said . “It’s helped me break out of my shell and live honestly. It’s helped me to live out loud.”

Ghee performed in the national tour of Kinky Boots after its Broadway run and portrayed Velma Kelly in a St. Louis staging of the Bob Fosse musical Chicago in 2021. The next year, Ghee joined the original Broadway cast of Some Like it Hot , a musical adaptation of the 1959 film of the same name, about two jazz musicians who flee the mob by disguising themselves in drag.

Ghee originated the part of Jerry/Daphne, who was played by Jack Lemmon in the film. The New York Times praised the performance , saying Ghee “carefully traces Jerry’s transformation into Daphne, and then the merging of the two identities into a third that takes us into territory that’s far more complex than jokey drag.”

Reflecting on the Tony Wins

Ahead of the Tony Awards ceremony, Ghee said their historic Tony nomination, along with Newell’s, demonstrated that “if a human is doing great work, it should be all about honoring that work,” according to Vogue .

“This definitely feels like it moves the needle forward, not only in our industry of entertainment, but in the world at large,” they said. “Especially with all the legislation going on against the LGBTQIA+ community and against drag queens and trans and nonbinary people, I don’t take it lightly that I have the opportunity to do this role and to be a voice during this time.”

However, the Tony Awards have been criticized for defining its acting categories by gendered terms of “Actor” and “Actress.” Justin David Sullivan, who identifies as trans nonbinary, declined to be considered for a Tony Award for their performance in the musical & Juliet in protest of the gendered categories.

“I am a nonbinary human, and I am playing a nonbinary principal role in a Broadway musical, which we really don’t see a lot of that,” Sullivan said . “So, I think for them to ask whether I would rather be seen more as, you know, male or female, I just felt like I couldn’t rightfully make that call.”

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Exclusive first preview of 9-1-1 season 7: 'I'm on a cruise ship, there was an explosion'

We last saw Angela Bassett's Athena and Peter Krause's Bobby headed out on a cruise. Now the Fox-turned-ABC drama has one going down.

ABC/ Youtube

"I can't believe we're doing this!"

Athena ( Angela Bassett ) and Bobby ( Peter Krause ) were quite excited to head out on their delayed honeymoon cruise in the 9-1-1 season 6 finale in May — but now, in a season 7 preview clip exclusive to EW, the middle of the ocean appears to be the last place you'd want to be.

"I'm on a cruise ship, there was an explosion," a passenger tells a 9-1-1 operator in the first peek at the upcoming season of the first-responder drama, which makes the move from Fox to ABC when it returns March 14.

It's not yet clear if this is the same cruise ship that Athena and Bobby headed out on, but it doesn't bode well that the show made a point to tell viewers that the couple didn't inform anyone about their last-minute trip. (Classic 9-1-1 mistake!)

This cruise ship disaster has been a long time coming, with showrunner Kristen Reidel teasing a honeymoon hazard way back at the end of season 5 .

"I mean, dinners don't go well on  9-1-1 . Proposals don't go well on  9-1-1 . So I would expect that yes, at some point next season, you will definitely see some portion of that vacation and it will be very  9-1-1, " she told EW in May 2022.

And Reidel wasn't alone in predicting a cruise mishap.

"Bobby feels like, 'Hey, maybe it's finally time for us to go on a honeymoon.' And he chooses to surprise Athena with an idea for a vacation — and what could possibly go wrong if they get on a cruise ship?" Krause told EW a few weeks prior to the season 5 finale .

It may have taken them a season longer than we'd expected, but it seems the high seas are finally set for high drama.

Courtesy ABC

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• 9-1-1  cast thought Buck actually died: 'I had many texts and calls,' Oliver Stark says

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Cruise Ship Setting Sail With Raft of Tony-Award Winners

Tony Award-winners Alan Cumming, Norbert Leo Butz and Laura Benanti are headlining an interesting venue for a clutch of Broadway stars — a cruise ship.

By Associated Press

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Tony Award-winners Alan Cumming , Norbert Leo Butz and Laura Benanti are headlining an interesting venue for a clutch of Broadway stars — a cruise ship. The trio of performers will be joined by Sierra Boggess, Jenn Colella, Norm Lewis and Taylor Louderman for the inaugural sailing of  The Broadway Cruise  from New York City to Bermuda from Oct. 10-14, 2020.   

Laura Benanti

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The cruise will borrow the Norwegian Pearl, which accommodates 2,000 people. The stars will perform multiple unique shows on the main pool deck. Cabin prices begin at $995 per person.   

Makeup designer Joe Dulude II will do demonstrations and interactive sessions with guests, costume designer Paul Tazewell will discuss his creative process and choreographer Kelly Devine will teach daily dance classes.

Norbert Leo Butz and Sherie Rene Scott Talk 'The Last Five Years' and Their Friendship Since: Listen

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The concept isn’t entirely new but the level of theater celebrity this time is high. Cruise ships have long highlighted Broadway shows onboard, with performances of everything from Grease  to Cats . And some cruise lines have employed Broadway veterans to mix with the passengers.

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Piano Guy Tony

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Ebony & Ivory, Living Together in Perfect Harmony

Welcome To My World!

I’ve been at the piano since…. well…  my first gig was the lounge act on The Mayflower, so you get the idea.  I actually began playing at age 8, and played in public for the first time about age 10.  After nearly 40 years of “regular” jobs and doing the weekend warrior thing in bands and in churches, in August, 2014, I took a leap of faith, bid adieu to “regular” jobs, and pursued the idea of making a living doing the thing I love most: playing piano and entertaining.

After auditioning for Carnival Cruise Line, I had my first cruise ship contract on the Carnival Pride in February, 2015 as a piano bar entertainer.  Since June, 2021, I've sailed on riverboats with American Cruise Lines, and have had the  privilege and joy of entertaining thousands of cruise ship guests, and have been all over the Caribbean, the Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands,  Mexico, and the Pacific Northwest.

I’ve met numerous cruise ship guests who have turned into longtime friends. To say I’m blessed would be an understatement.  It really is true:  Do what you love for a living, and you’ll never work a day in your life.

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I love playing private functions and jamming with local bands.

Hit me up!!

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Copyright © 2018 Anthony Ward- All Rights Reserved.

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Tony Hadley Talks Spandau Ballet, Touring and His Eighties Throwback Cruise

Author: Isabella Sullivan

Published on: 13 September 2019

Updated on: 16 June 2022

Former Spandau Ballet frontman Tony has swapped his New Romantic gear for a smart suit – and headline billing on an Eighties tour at sea

U ntil last year, Eighties pop icon Tony Hadley had cruised just once in his life, back in 1973 on board the troop ship SS Nevasa .

“It was amazing,” laughs Tony, 59. “I was 13 and on a school trip. We sailed around the Mediterranean and we were in Naples two weeks after they declared it cholera free. I also remember Istanbul, where they had dancing bears in the street.”

A little matter of 46 years later, Tony will be back at sea, headlining Floating Festivals’ Throwback tour – a music cruise featuring a hit-packed bill of Eighties acts including Sister Sledge and UB40.

Tony thinks floating festivals like these are the future of performing. “I read about contemporary artists like Belle & Sebastian playing cruise ships, and I thought, ‘Wow, this is the way forward’,” he says. “So when I was offered the chance to perform at sea, I couldn’t wait to get on board.”

Tony made his ocean-going debut last year when he played alongside Kim Wilde and Go West to 3,000 enthusiastic Eighties music fans, spending his week graciously doing selfies, watching the other bands and generally ‘getting involved’.

“For the first day it took me half an hour to walk 50 metres,” he jokes, “but then people got used to me being on board and everyone was saying, ‘Hey, you all right Tony?’ I met some lovely people and it was a real laugh.”

Rocking the boat once more this October, Tony Hadley will be singing songs from his latest album, Talking to the Moon , as well as throwing in some classic hits, too.

“I’ll be singing some of my favourite Spandau Ballet songs like True , Gold and Through the Barricades – songs that people want to hear because they bring back so many memories,” he says.

“When I sing True I can see people cuddling up because they played it for their first dance when they got married. That’s the sort of impact you have when you sing those songs.”

Sadly, Tony won’t be wearing Spandau Ballet’s distinctive ’80s costume of ruffles and jodhpurs – though fans are encouraged to sport their best New Romantic finery on board.

Frill-free and accompanied by his wife Alison and youngest daughters Zara, 12, and Genevieve, 7, Tony says he’ll be travelling with some smart suits and his “essential hair gunk”. After all, he insists, “You can’t entertain an audience looking like you’ve just got out of bed.”

So where next for the Islington boy who’s known for his love of Arsenal, hairspray and real ale? Despite his recent conversion to cruising, Tony says he also enjoys adventure holidays on land.

Over the past couple of years he has trekked in Costa Rica and across the Venezuelan Savanna, and there’s a trip to Uganda in the pipeline for 2020. But a little relaxation may also be on Tony’s agenda.

“As my wife keeps reminding me, we’ve never actually had a honeymoon,” he admits. “She says she’d like to go to the Maldives. To be honest, just sitting around all day long is not my idea of fun, but I’ll do it for her.”

“When I sing True , I can see people cuddling up because they played it for their first dance when they got married.”

Get on Board

3-night ‘Throwback’ cruise with Tony Hadley aboard Explorer of the Seas, round trip from Southampton via Le Havre, departing 11 October 2019, from £499, floatingfestivals.co.uk

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Tony Fleming: Back in Alaska on Venture

Tony Fleming, the founder of Fleming Yachts, is one of the most experienced, and capable, cruising people I know. Over the years, Tony also has developed a worldwide following for the writing, photos and videos based on his voyages on Venture , his personal Fleming 65. Here’s his latest, starting in Auke Bay, near Sitka, Alaska.

June 24th Friday

We arise just after 0600 and leave for the fuel dock at 0735. We take on 475 usg @ $5.52 per gallon. We depart Auke Bay fuel dock at 0810. We pass the small town of Hoona which has three cruise ships moored at its docks. We also notice new facilities such as a cable car with gondolas rising high up into mist-shrouded mountains and what has been billed as the fastest zip line in the world. We continue past Hoona into Port Frederick and anchor in the North Bight of Neka Bay. During the day the clouds dissipate and turn into a beautiful evening with distant peaks reflected in still waters.

June 25th Saturday

Up anchor 0833. We retrace our route out of the anchorage and over the glassy waters of Port Frederick towards Hoonah.

(Seen below: Drone shot of Venture underway in Frederick Sound.)

Chris suggests this would be a good opportunity for a drone shot of Venture proceeding through mirror still waters but the surface is ruffled by the time the drone takes to the air. We have cell phone coverage off Hoona but not sufficient to connect to the internet. We turn left into Icy Strait and need to cross to the other side to stay out of the way of a small cruise ship. We have distant views of the magnificent coastal mountains. We pass Lemesurier Island and are heading for Dundas as our evening’s destination when Chris suggests we take advantage of the rare calm conditions and head instead to Lituya Bay.

After some discussion we decide to at least take a look at the sea conditions in the Gulf.  We could already just see Cape Spencer light house in the distance through binoculars. So…. sharp left turn into Cross Strait and we head towards the open waters which are already within line of sight from our present position. When we reach the open sea, the sky is a clear blue but the wind is gusting to 20 knots from the north-east – our direction of travel!

We decide to proceed but we will arrive too early at the tricky entrance into Lituya Bay some forty miles away so we turn into Dick’s Arm which appears on the chart to be dramatically narrow with steep contours on either side. It turns out to be a lovely spot extremely peaceful compared the boisterous conditions outside its narrow rock-strewn entrance.  We anchor at the end of the inlet and enjoy an early afternoon tea while we wait so that we will arrive off the entrance to Lituya bay at around slack water at 2200. On the way back out of the Dicks Arm we spot a mother brown bear with two cubs. One stood up to get a better view of us but his mother paid us no attention and continues browsing on sedge grass.

(Seen below: Mother brown bear with cub in Dick’s Arm inlet.)

The weather is against us and the seas are choppy with volumes of wind-blown spray hurling itself against the windshield. A commercial fish boat also heading north behind us calls on radio. He is heading to Valdez in Prince William Sound so he has a long way to go. The coastal mountains are staggeringly beautiful and dominated by Mount FaIrweather which rises 15,300 feet straight up from the sea.

We pass LePerouse glacier – named after the French Admiral who in 1786 suffered a calamity in Lituya Bay. It is hard to stop taking photos and video. Finally we arrive off the entrance to Lituya Bay marked by a couple of conical hills named The Paps. The seas are somewhat rough and the far range marker is not visible but we have no problems following the course on the chart. We drop anchor at 2200 just ahead of sunset officially listed at 2223. Read more:

https://www.flemingyachts.com/tonys-adventures/venture-blog-2-from-auke-bay-to-close-by-sitka?fbclid=IwAR2pQokZzpY7_Eb-WOGg4inBxPwjFd1eZ0kbyjVblpJxnOdutJqqkFGXVvc

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Tony Tillman Chosen as Princess Cruises’ Entertainer of the Year

Passengers aboard Crown Princess have voted, and have picked Tony Tillman as Princess Cruises Entertainer of the Year. Four finalists performed and passengers cast their ballots onboard.

Tillman is a singer and dynamic entertainer often compared to Sammy Davis, Jr. or Ben Vereen. A star of “The Rat Pack is Back” tribute show in Las Vegas, Tillman’s fast-paced and energetic style endeared him to the Crown Princess audiences.

“Congratulations to Tony Tillman for being chosen as our second annual Entertainer of the Year,” said Martin Hall, vice president of entertainment. “All of the talented finalists thoroughly entertained Crown Princess passengers, and they each represented the caliber of guest performers on Princess ships.”

Passengers aboard the February 9-16, 2013 Crown Princess sailing saw live performances from each finalist – along with Tillman the finalists included comedy and dance duo Alfredo and Seymour, comedian Sarge, and mentalist Wayne Hoffman – and their vote chose the winner. Tillman was announced as the winner on the final night of the cruise at a celebratory event in Princess’ signature venue, The Piazza.

As the winner, Tillman receives a cash prize of $5,000 and now holds the title of the line’s “2012 Entertainer of the Year.”

Source & Photo:  www.princess.com

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Cruise Ship

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Cruise Ship loading screen

Cruise Ship is the 9th and final level in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 . This level is exclusive to the PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, and PC versions of the game.

• 2.1 6th Gen Platforms
• 4.1 Dialogues

The Cruise Ship level is based on the Real Life cruise ship by Carnival Cruise Lines. According to the announcements made by Captain Jennings, the level is set on the Caribbean Sea.

6th Gen Platforms [ ]

• High Score: 100,000
• Pro Score: 225,000
• Sick Score: 500,000
• Collect S-K-A-T-E
• Get the Secret Tape
• NoseBlunt Slide an Awning (Street)
• Invert the High Wires (Vert)
• Impress the Neversoft Girls
• Raise the Ferry
• Trash the Museum
• An island can be seen if the player looks out to the sea, which is  Skater Island .
• The player can drain the pool by grinding a specific rail near the pool itself, which can help net the "Invert the High Wire" goal for Vert skaters.
• If the player jumps into the big cake, another cake rises. If the player hits that one, another one will come. There are 3 different cakes: one that is white, one modelled after the United States flag, and one modelled after the United Kingdom flag. Jumping these cakes are required for the Sweet Temptation, Star Spangled Splatter, and God Save the Cake! gaps respectively.
• The player can deploy nets and various other extra features by grinding off the wires for the propeller in the museum area, which is also a requirement for the "Trash the Museum" goal.
• Smashing every glass window in the Atrium initiates an audio exchange between the fake captain and the real captain, after which the real captain will be heard for the rest of the session.

Captain's announcements [ ]

• "Attention, passengers, the ship-to-shore ferry has arrived. Those leaving for the islands, please proceed to the starboard side shops on the Promenade Deck to board."
• "For a little R&R, spend some time in the Portside Greenhouse. Let our exotic plants change your state of mind. Please refrain from licking the frogs. Thank you."
• "Attention passengers, please remember to swing by the Maritime Museum on the Aloha Deck to see our totally nautical collection of fine art and memorabilia, including a 20-foot tall 35-ton propeller blade precariously placed on the ceiling. Don't look up."
• "Attention, passengers, cake is now being served at the Fiesta Deck at the rear of the ship. Enjoy, and please, try not to make a mess. Thank you."
• "Attention, passengers, a quick word of caution: Please check the pool for water before jumping in. Face-planting the tiles is strictly prohibited."
• "Attention, passengers, just wanted to...Hey, what the- Hey, hey, LOOK OUT! ICEBERG! *Laugh* Just kidding. Fear not friends, the only ice in the Caribbean is in your margaritas.
• "Attention, thrill-seekers, water-skiing is now available on the back of the ship, but please, whatever you do, just don't let go. It'll take an hour to swing around and pick you up when these are shark-infested waters. *Laugh* Uh, ahem, I-I'm not kidding."
• "Attention passengers, we regret to inform you that topless sunbathing on the upper deck is not allowed. Instead, please feel free to relocate to the Captain's Private Chambers. Thank you."
• "Those wishing to visit passengers incarcerated in the brig, please proceed to the Biscayne Deck. Visiting hours are now open."
• "Whoever is staying in Cabin 613 on the Caribbean Deck, there's an incredibly terrible smell coming from your quarters. Please clean it out or we'll have to call the hazmat team. Thank you."
• "Attention, those who have little else to live for should think of their fellow passengers before flinging themselves from the top of the ship. The bow of the ship might be a much better place for your attempt, as you will most likely be sucked down in the undertow and never seen again. Thank you."
• "Seasick passengers, please proceed to the outside railings. We've received numerous complaints from the lower decks. Thank you for your cooperation."
• "Attention passengers, those who have heard rumors of widespread typhoid epidemic onboard have been misinformed. Nothing to worry about, folks! But if you are feeling in any way ill, please proceed down to the Workers Deck Cabin 103 next to the incinerator for processing- I, um, treatment. Thank you."
• "Attention all passengers, this is Captain Jennings speaking. On behalf of the crew, I'd like to welcome you aboard the SS Neversoft Skate Cruise. We hope your stay is a pleasant one."
• "Man overboard! All hands to station! Lower the anchor! Deploy the safety net! Move it, people! Ahem, on an unrelated note, please visit our massage parlors located on the Promenade deck." (when the player completes the "Trash the Museum" goal)

Dialogues [ ]

• Crewman: -taking on more water then we can bail and the man are getting tired, sir!
• Captain: I don’t care how much water we’ve taken on, kid! Bail faster! And if you breathe a word of this to anyone, I’ll wring your neck myself!
• Crewman: Uhh, Captain?
• Captain: Huh?
• Crewman : Is that mic light supposed to be on?
• Captain: What mic?! Son of a…!
• Captain: Yeah, I like it, I like it. Right there. Yeah. Oh yeah. Oh yeah.
• Girl: Uh, Captain...?
• Captain: Becky, you are incredible!
• Captain: I love it when you call me 'Captain'.
• Girl: Uh, Captain, look; is that mic light supposed to be on?
• Captain: Huh, what? [shuts off mic]

See also [ ]

• Cruise Ship Walkthrough
• Cruise Ship Gap List

Gallery [ ]

• 1 Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3
• 2 Tony Hawk's Underground 2

A drumming blog written by Todd Bishop.

• Support the blog
• Get Skype lessons
• Why "Cruise Ship Drummer!" ?

Sunday, March 24, 2013

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