The multi-level stage system is made of a series of decks on aluminum frames. Each deck has a birch plywood surface covered with a black dance floor surface from Harlequin Flooring. As space is limited, two of the main upstage risers may be turned on their sides and used as dollies to store the remainder of the stage.
Fourteen collapsible 2ft x 2ft x 6ft dressing room lockers were also constructed for this project for use by the performers on stage to store the wardrobe that will be used throughout the show. Because centr stage is 'split', the doors on the lockers were attached to open towards centre stage. The stage system's 'maiden voyage' sets sail on 23 January to the Panama Canal.
Brilliant Stages has enjoyed an extensive history with Princess Cruises, having made sets for several of the ships including Grand Princess, Golden Princess, Star Princess, Royal Princess, Pacific Princess, Tahitian Princess and Coral Princess. The set for the Island Princess is currently being built in St. Nazaire, France. Sets for the Diamond Princess and others will begin production later this year in Japan.
(Lee Baldock)
