Musician and singer will also serve as musical director for a new venue onboard P&O Cruises' newest ship
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Take That band member Gary Barlow is to serve as the musical director of The 710 Club onboard P&O Cruises’ Iona, which will launch at the end of May 2020.
Barlow, who is the cruise line’s newest brand ambassador, will curate a range of live music performances that are tailored to the tastes of British guests. He will also choose performers and help to develop other aspects of the music bar.
“I want The 710 Club to be a celebration of great music and great talent,” said Barlow. “As its musical director, I want to give a unique experience for people who love music as much as I do. Music has been such a massive part of my life – and taken me on so many journeys and adventures. I’m hoping to pass this on to all the guests in my club.”
Barlow will also perform at Iona’s naming ceremony, which will take place in Southampton, England on 4 July. In addition, he will join guests on two of Iona’s sailings to give exclusive performances – a cruise from Southampton to the Norwegian fjords on 29 August and a voyage from Southampton to Spain and Portugal on 31 October.
“Gary’s impressive career speaks for itself and he will bring his vision and personality to our new The 710 Club; from guiding the resident band, selecting future performers and playlists and even shaping the interiors and signature cocktails,” said Paul Ludlow, president of P&O Cruises. “We’re excited that our guests can be a part of it and they will have the opportunity to watch Gary light up Iona’s theatre for some extraordinary performances in dazzling surroundings. This collaboration highlights our commitment to providing world-class entertainment on Iona that places music firmly at its heart.”