With Crystal Cruises’ 2011 “Film & Theatre Festival” recently wrapping to rave reviews, the ultra-luxe cruise line announces a rousing program for 2012’s theme sailing.

Tippi Hedren, Kate Burton, members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, and “Edith Head” are among the talented “cast” scheduled for perform, present, and mingle with guests during Crystal Serenity’s April 21 LA-NY voyage.

Highlights of the 20+ special events include a Tippi-themed cocktail party with photo ops, an intimate Vintage Room dinner hosted by Tippi and “Edith,” celebrity Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes presentations, hosted cinema screenings, theme trivia games, and special in-stateroom TV programming.  Performance/presentations include:

Tippi Hedren: A directors’ favorite, from Alfred Hitchcock to David O. Russell and Alexander Payne, the screen legend will speak about her work as both an actress and animal rights activist.

Susan Claassen as Edith Head: Costume designer-to-the-stars Edith Head comes back to life in Susan’s stunning biographical performance and off-stage appearances.

Kate Burton: Emmy-nominated for playing Ellis Grey on “Grey’s Anatomy,” the distinguished Broadway and TV actress will host a Q&A session.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles: Members of this 220-person choir will perform musical hits in matinee shows designed exclusively for Crystal Cruises.

Additional speakers include Michael Ritchie, artistic director for LA’s renowned Center Theatre Group; USC film historian Drew Casper; prolific TV producer Chuck Fries; and Greg Schreiner, owner of one of the world’s largest private Hollywood costume collections, many of which will be worn during “Hollywood Revisited—A Tribute in Costume and Song.”

Crystal Serenity will sail through the Panama Canal via Cabo San Lucas; Caldera, Costa Rica; Cartagena; Grand Cayman; Ft. Lauderdale; and Charleston.

Fares, with $900/person “Book Now Savings,” start at just $5,645/person (double occupancy), if reserved by October 31.  Fares also include complimentary air from 24 North American gateways (or air credit), transfers to/from airports, and $500/person “All Inclusive—As You Wish” on-board spending credit.

Crystal Cruise’s award-winning entertainment offerings include a range of venues and performances, from cabaret nightclub to piano bar saloon; acclaimed productions to headline entertainers; and sophisticated enrichment activities to in-room Blu-ray™-viewing, for all world travelers.