When Carnival Sunshine debuted in Europe May 5 so did two brand new spectacular shows – Epic Rock and Studio VIP – both part of the line’s high-tech “Playlist Productions” revues which combine captivating live performances with high-tech LED staging and special effects to set a new standard in seagoing productions.

Two other Playlist Productions shows -- Latin Nights and Motor City, both of which debuted on Carnival Breeze last year – are also featured as part of Carnival Sunshine’s diverse entertainment lineup.

Playlist Productions utilize towering LED screens to blend video, still photography and dazzling special effects with live on-stage action to deliver unforgettable performances of musical entertainment. Actors, dancers and singers interact with automated movements of the screens, stage, lifts and scenic elements to create a constantly changing environment.

Epic Rock celebrates the glam days of the 1970s and 1980s with hard-driving tunes by Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin and Guns ’n Roses and arena rock staples by artists like Journey and Bon Jovi – all backed by dazzling pyrotechnics, lasers and shooting flames associated with over-the-top rock-and-roll shows. Epic Rock brings back the days when rock ruled the airwaves while providing guests a chance to sing along and channel their inner rock star.

Inspired by the sophistication of Studio 54 and the funk and fashion of Soul Train, Studio VIP is a dance party that celebrates the musical revolution that was New York City nightlife in the 1970’s and the glittering excesses of that decade. An all-out audience participation show, Studio VIP evokes the days of bell bottoms and wide lapels while showcasing some of the most memorable songs from a bygone era – from KC and the Sunshine Band and Donna Summer to Chic, Parliament and Barry White.

Latin Nights brings the passionate Latin culture to life through the fusion music of Gloria Estefan, Enrique Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez, Santana and Shakira, while Motor City celebrates the R&B Motown sound of the 1960s and ’70s, with hits from the Commodores, Lionel Richie, Martha and the Vandellas, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and Stevie Wonder.

All four Playlist Production shows are featured during Carnival Sunshine’s inaugural European season which runs through October.  The ship will then reposition to New Orleans in November for seven-day Caribbean sailings before launching year-round five- to eight-day Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Fla., in April 2014.