There is a reason the world's most celebrated ballets have endured for generations. Beyond the music and movement lie powerful stories rooted in remarkable places: medieval Italian cities, grand European courts, dramatic landscapes and legendary cultural capitals.
Through a partnership built on a shared passion for artistry, culture and extraordinary experiences, Regent Seven Seas Cruises' partnership with The Australian Ballet, these iconic productions become an invitation to explore the destinations that helped bring them to life. From Verona's timeless romance to Spain's fiery passion, discover how the world's great performances can inspire your next great journey.
Few stories echo through time like Romeo and Juliet.
First published in 1597, Shakespeare’s tragic tale of star-crossed lovers has captivated audiences for centuries, traversing across literature, theatre, music and dance. Conjuring a world of opulence, rivalry and romance in medieval Verona, John Cranko’s 1962 ballet of the tragic lovers made its Australian premiere in 1974 with Lucette Aldous and Kelvin Coe in the title roles.
Verona itself remains every bit as captivating as the story it inspired. Beyond its famous balcony, the city reveals layers of history, from the remarkably preserved Roman Arena to elegant piazzas where centuries of Italian life continue to unfold. Walking its cobbled streets, it's easy to understand why this timeless setting has inspired generations of storytellers, artists and audiences alike.
Guests can experience Verona as part of a post-cruise land program following Mediterranean voyages that conclude in Venice, including Spotlight on Wine with Mercante Wine Merchants. Beginning with a guided exploration of St. Mark's Square before traveling inland, the journey allows time to discover Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza dei Signori and Juliet's legendary balcony before soaking in the atmosphere of one of Italy's most enchanting cities.
Like the ballet itself, Verona is a place where history, romance and beauty remain inseparable.
One of the most translated books in history, Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote is a tale of adventure, magic and romance. First brought to the ballet stage in 1801, Don Quixote evolved over the centuries and ballet companies. From the Bolshoi Ballet in 1869 to Anna Pavlova’s tour of Australia in 1926, Don Quixote has delighted ballet audiences for generations. In 1970, Don Quixote was recreated by Rudolf Nureyev and Sir Robert Helpmann at The Australian Ballet. This production was filmed in an airport hangar in the sweltering Australian heat in 1973 to become an icon of cinematic ballet.
This ballet is unique in the way it captures the color, exuberance and irresistible spirit of Spain, qualities that continue to define the country today. From the elegant Mediterranean ports and lively plazas filled with music, food and centuries of tradition, Spain invites visitors to immerse themselves in a culture as vibrant as the story itself.
That spirit comes to life throughout Regent's Mediterranean voyages. On sailings such as the epic 82-night Grand Mediterranean Odyssey , our more intimate ships unlock both iconic cities and lesser-known coastal treasures. Guests can experience destinations such as Málaga, home to the imposing Alcazaba fortress and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, or discover Alicante, where the medieval streets of the Old Town lead to panoramic views from Santa Bárbara Castle. As well as calling into many other Spanish ports like Cádiz, Cartagena, Ibiza, and Barcelona. Allowing guests to delve deeper into Andalusia's Moorish history and sample authentic regional flavors on included culinary experiences.
Christopher Wheeldon’s original ballet of the life and fairytales of writer Oscar Wilde premiered in Australia in 2024. Created on the dancers at The Australian Ballet, Wheeldon examines the thrilling highs of Wilde’s successes and the crushing lows surrounding his sexuality which lead to his ostracization and incarceration. Set to a score by Joby Talbot, Oscar is a whimsical journey through the life of one of literature’s most famous satirists, intertwined with scenes from his most famous works, The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Nightingale and the Rose.
The landscapes and cities of Britain and Ireland provide the backdrop to Wilde's remarkable story. From his birthplace in Dublin to the literary circles of London and the historic cities that shaped Victorian culture, these destinations offer a deeper appreciation of the world that inspired one of history's greatest writers.
Regent's Spotlight on Heritage with Ancestry.com® aboard Seven Seas Voyager®, departing in July 2027, brings those places to life. Exploring ports across England, Ireland and Scotland, calling into Dublin, the birthplace of Wilde and the city where his early creativity flourished, before exploring the heritage and character of the British Isles through Regent's included shore excursions. Together, these experiences create a journey that extends the story beyond the stage, connecting Wilde's enduring legacy with the places that shaped it.
Since first partnering in 2022, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and The Australian Ballet have celebrated a shared commitment to artistry, culture and creating unforgettable experiences.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has consistently delivered ultra-luxury travel experiences with the very best value for over thirty years. Aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet®, enjoy unrivaled onboard space, unforgettable shoreside excursions, incomparable culinary experiences, and exceptional Heartfelt Hospitality™.
For over 60 years, The Australian Ballet has reflected the elegance, artistry and tradition of classical ballet. Founded in 1962 by Peggy van Praagh, The Australian Ballet premiered on November 2, 1962, performing van Praagh’s production of Swan Lake to a sold-out audience at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Sydney. Since their inaugural performance, The Australian Ballet has developed into a leading ballet company, globally renowned for its pursuit of excellence in dance.
As part of our partnership, The Australian Ballet is pleased to extend a special offer to all Regent guests: a 10% discount on all ballet productions throughout 2026. To redeem, enter the code RSSC when prompted to select your seats. Visit The Australian Ballet's official website to purchase your tickets.
10% A-D Reserve for all remaining Melbourne and Sydney mainstages. Not in conjunction on other offers.
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