The Star of the Seas takes the DeLorean to the high seas: first impressions of the show ‘Back to the Future: The Musical’ on a cruise ship

Royal Caribbean’s new ship, the Star of the Seas, not only sails the oceans, but also travels through time. As part of its commitment to unprecedented entertainment, the company has brought on board a theatrical adaptation of 'Back to the Future: The Musical,' a production that has captivated audiences with its special effects and fidelity to the iconic science fiction film.

During the cruise ship’s maiden voyage, executives and creative directors from the shipping company revealed the details behind this and other productions, highlighting the effort and innovation required to bring shows of this magnitude to the sea. The team, led by Vice President of Entertainment Christy Coachman, emphasized their ambition to offer an experience “for everyone,” combining high-level theater, live music, comedy, sports, and interactive activities.

A three-year journey to create the most complex show

According to Alex Marchand, senior director of Productions and Creative Development, the team has spent more than three years developing ‘Back to the Future.’ The production, which features a cast of 29 performers, is presented with a 16-piece orchestra, the largest ever seen on one of the company’s cruises. To make the staging work, it was necessary to add more than 50 tons of steel to the stage, turning it into a platform on top of another platform that allows for complex choreography and illusionist effects.

The musical is an adapted version for the ship, reducing its duration to approximately 102 minutes without an intermission, unlike its Broadway counterpart, which is considerably longer. To achieve this, the creators collaborated directly with Bob Gale, the co-writer of the original film, who was present during the performance and personally approved the cuts to lines and sections of songs, ensuring that the essence and most memorable moments of the story were preserved.

Special effects and a race against time

The centerpiece of the show is the legendary DeLorean. To recreate the vehicle’s illusions, the team resorted to traditional theater techniques, such as the use of a turntable and lighting manipulation. In fact, one of the best-kept secrets is the inclusion of small lights that point directly at the audience. The intention is to close the viewers’ pupils, preventing them from seeing the complicated mechanisms that make the magic on stage possible.

But it’s not just the technology that’s crucial. The frenetic pace of production demands flawless coordination from the actors and technical crew. Jacob, who plays Marty McFly, and the rest of the cast must perform an incredible number of lightning-fast costume changes, while the props team moves at breakneck speed behind the scenes, making what happens offstage almost as interesting as what happens on it.

In addition to ‘Back to the Future,’ the Star of the Seas offers other spectacular shows, such as Torque at the AquaTheater, which features a kinetic screen and seven elevators in its 14-foot-deep pool, and Sol, an ice skating show that pays tribute to California culture. The entertainment offering is complemented by an extensive program of live music, comedy, and interactive activities such as “The Price Is Right” and escape rooms based on the 1950s and 1980s.

Beyond the shows: a complete experience

The Star of the Seas aims to consolidate an entertainment offering that extends throughout the ship. The company has a staff of 72 artists and 62 technicians, putting on a total of more than 600 comedy shows and more than 1,400 productions annually.

Diversity of talent: The entertainment team draws on talent from around the world, including skaters who have competed in national and international championships.

Innovative activities: New offerings have been introduced, such as “Family Field Day,” where families compete in outdoor games, and “The Crown’s Edge,” an exciting attraction where guests walk along the outside of the ship at a great height.

First impressions of ‘Back to the Future: The Musical’

Thanks to this opportunity provided by Royal Caribbean, we witnessed the first official open-sea staging of this fan-service-filled play.

One thing we really liked is that it has subtle changes that give it a “different approach” to the plot without losing the real essence of the film. What is astounding is the display of special effects and the speed with which the play unfolds, highlighting the actors’ great talent for changing costumes, literally in seconds.

What we liked most was the adaptation and inclusion of classic songs such as Johnny B. Goode and The Power of Love… among others that we don’t want to mention, so you don’t miss out on this incredible adaptation.

In short, Royal Caribbean has created an entertainment platform where innovation and, above all, safety combine to offer travelers an unforgettable experience.

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