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March 22, 2025
Russell’s first lecture


A marquee outside the Hollywood Theatre advertises Russell’s lecture

Viking contracts “destination-specific” lecturers. Topics should be relevant to the ports being visited, but can discuss history, culture, politics, science, etc. On Viking, Russell’s category is called “cultural insights.” (Gail’s genealogy and needle felting sessions are considered “workshops,” not “lectures.”)

Crystal contracts two completely different kinds of lecturers. A “destination specific” lecturer must talk about every port being visited, and should cover everything from history to what-to-see. (Think of a port talk.) Conversely, a “special interest” lecturer must specifically not talk about the region or ports being visited. An itinerary only needs one “destination-specific” lecturer, but can include several “special interest” lecturers.

Russell doesn’t do port talks, so he applied as a “special interest” lecturer. He submitted the most fun pop culture topics he has in his portfolio, all completely unrelated to the region we are sailing. Apparently it worked, because here we are. Russell is giving 1:30 pm lectures on three sea days: March 22, 25 and 26.

Our 10-day itinerary has four lecturers:


Tony van Maanenberg, Peter Price and Bruce Nocita


Russell received a very nice write-up in the ship’s daily newsletter, “Reflections.” We particularly love that the word “popular” can be read two different ways.

The Crystal Symphony has two theatres. The large “Galaxy Theatre” is where the entertainment shows happen every evening. This is also where the “destination specific” lecturer speaks.

The “Hollywood Theatre” is smaller and more intimate. This is where daily movies are shown, and where Russell speaks. Russell prefers the “Hollywood” – he is closer to the audience, the screen is bigger and the seats are raked.


The Galaxy Theatre, the venue for evening entertainment, has about 300 seats


The Hollywood Theatre, the venue for daily movies, has 134 seats


Our challenge before Russell’s first lecture is to meet people and make ourselves known. Gail parked herself outside the Bistro in the main thoroughfare with her 3D needle felting, which attracted a lot of people.

For Russell’s first lecture today, we tried to follow as many of our normal procedures as possible. Russell began his preparation two hours ahead of time with a walk around the ship. We set everything up 30 minutes before start. Gail welcomed guests while Russell faced the wall in meditation. Russell spoke without a podium, which initially confused the tech set-up team.


Russell in the Hollywood Theatre (Unlike on Viking, he gets to wear a name badge!)

In Gail’s admittedly biased opinion, the lecture was a total success. Russell was energetic and entertaining. The audience was engaged and had universally positive feedback afterwards. Completing our first Crystal lecture was a huge milestone to get past.

Tonight was also the second and final formal night of the cruise. All in all, it was a very good day.


Dinner with Violetta and Tony van Maanenberg (Gail is wearing the gorgeous ao dai silk garment she got in Vietnam a couple of years ago)

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