Cunard stage set up on Pier Head for free Andrea Bocelli event

Preparations are underway at Liverpool’s Pier Head for the naming ceremony of Cunard’s newest ship.

Having recently made her maiden voyage, Cunard’s new liner Queen Anne will arrive in Liverpool on June 3 for the naming ceremony – a moment marked by the traditional smashing of a bottle of champagne against the ship. It was announced last Wednesday (May 22) that legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli will perform at the ceremony on the Pier Head as part of a day of celebrations.

Pictures taken by the ECHO on Tuesday (May 28) showed a scene being set up on the Pier Head for the event. Complete with Cunard branding, the stage and stand area is situated to the left of the Three Graces as you look out over the city from the River Mersey.

READ MORE: People will remember Pier Head event ‘for the rest of their days’ as new ship comes to Liverpool

READ MORE: New waterfront hotels could be built as part of downtown masterplan

The event is hosted on the banks of the River Mersey because Cunard’s transatlantic service – and passenger transport itself – was launched in Liverpool in 1840. The company’s ships have previously attracted more than a million spectators to the region, the first for the first call of his. QE2 in July 1990 and in front of the Cunard Building, which celebrated the cruise line’s 175th anniversary.

The June 3 naming ceremony and Mr. Bocelli’s performance are part of a free afternoon and evening of festivities, which will conclude with a fireworks display as Queen Anne departs the city. Hosted by former Busted musician Matt Willis and his wife Emma, ​​the event is free and will run until 10.30pm.

There will also be performances from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, The Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts and local DJ Lauren Lo Sung. The naming ceremony will see the tradition of breaking a bottle of champagne against the ship.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Liverpool is known around the world as the spiritual home of Cunard and we are delighted to announce Maestro Bocelli as part of our incredible collection of talented artists and performers for this special event. This celebration is a tribute to our rich history and a testament to the enduring connection between Cunard and the city of Liverpool.

“We look forward to honoring this legacy with a celebration of unforgettable performances that reflect the spirit and vibrancy of both our company and this magnificent city.”

Mr Bocelli added: “It’s an honor to be performing in Liverpool for Queen Anne’s official naming ceremony. This event promises to be a beautiful celebration of craftsmanship and craftsmanship that perfectly captures the spirit and elegance of Cunard’s new vessel.

“Participating in such a historic occasion, in a city rich in cultural heritage, truly brings me great joy.”

The Liverpool Daily Post newsletter looks at the biggest stories from Merseyside

Get information about summer events sent directly to your phone