Thanks all for your insights. I will definitely check out "Live From" and "The Inside Cabin".
We've been cruising for a long time and have many days on HAL but grew increasingly disappointed with the elimination of many of their more popular and enjoyable entertainment venues and acts. When we started sailing with HAL in the 1990s, there was live entertainment in the dining room at dinner, orchestras played in the Crow's Nest, cabaret singers and comedians performed in the Queen's Lounge and the Main Stage included cast shows, individual singers and orchestra/band music for dancing and general enjoyment. A DJ played contemporary music in the Club late night. The Officer's Black and White Ball was usually held on the second formal night in the Queen's Lounge, always a favorite.
On our recent HAL voyages which we typically take on Vista or Signature-class ships, most of this was gone. The late night Clubs had been changed into "library/reading/game rooms", the Crow's Nest is relegated to another lounge with puzzles, maps and a coffee-selling cafe. What a waste of a great entertainment venue! On our last HAL voyage in February 2020 on Eurodam, the only things happening at the Main Stage were BBC movies and port/shopping lectures. No live entertainment.
I realize everyone's tastes for cruising are different and lines appeal to varying clientele based on those interests. We've cruised on quite a few other lines and have many days with RCCL where entertainment is second-to-none. But, we really liked HAL for the service and dining, spacious staterooms and even their entertainment some time ago. That's why I'm willing to give them another try but wanted to get a read on what, if anything, may have changed with new management.
Thanks again, for your feedback and insights!
