NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced the cast of its headlining show, “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical,” due to premiere aboard Norwegian Prima (new ship ) in August 2022.
The Tony Award-nominated musical narrates the story of Donna Summer’s rise to fame, showing the Queen of Disco at 3 of the most pivotal stages of her career: Diva Donna/Disco Donna/Duckling Donna.
NCL announced the cast who'll take on the mantle of Donna Summer throughout her life:
Beloved “American Idol” season 2 finalist, Kimberly Locke will star in the role of Diva Donna, playing Summer at the height of her career. Fans will see the charisma that got Locke to the final 3 contestants on her season of “American Idol.”
Valerie Curlingford (1989-born in Amsterdam Netherlands) is taking on the role of Disco Donna. She will play Summer in her late teens-early twenties as she first finds success in the 1970s disco era. Duckling Donna will show Summer as she is growing up in Boston in the 1960s. The role is to be played by D’Nasya Jordan, who recently starred in “Hairspray” as Little Inez.
The production will feature 20+ of Donna Summer’s mega-hits (including Hot Stuff, Bad Girls, Last Dance) and will provide viewers with an understanding of the inspiration behind some of her memorable songs. The 85-minute musical is to be a first at sea, where the Prima Theater transforms into a full disco, allowing passengers to become part of the show.
“Summer: The Donna Summer Musical” is just one of the shows available at the ship's Theater, where will be also host “Noise Boys!” an award-winning beatboxing experience by Nic Doodson, creator of “Choir of Man,” NCL’s best-rated entertainment show residing on the liners Encore and Escape.
As part of the additional entertainment offerings aboard Norwegian Prima, the brand will debut live game show experiences that allow guests to be part of the show and have a chance to win grand prizes.