A Floating Jazz Hall Beneath the Stars

 

There’s no venue in Long Beach quite like the Queen Mary—and there’s no jazz experience quite like Alex Mendham & His Orchestra. On August 30, 2025, the ship’s historic decks will come alive with the golden sounds of the 1920s and ‘30s, as Mendham brings his authentic swing orchestra aboard for a night steeped in vintage charm.

 

The Queen Mary, permanently moored along the Long Beach waterfront, transforms into a swaying dancehall during these special performances. With evening sea breezes and panoramic harbor views, guests are whisked into another era—where tuxedos, champagne, and clarinets ruled the night.

 

Who Is Alex Mendham?

 

Alex Mendham is no ordinary bandleader. A British musician and showman known for his meticulous recreations of early 20th-century jazz and swing, Mendham performs with a full orchestra dressed in period-perfect attire. His sound is pure time travel: lush horns, silky vocals, and the polished polish of a bygone age.

 

The group’s repertoire reads like a who’s who of jazz greats—Louis Armstrong, Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby, and Duke Ellington. More than a concert, it’s a full-on revival of the big band experience, tailored for modern audiences but delivered with true historical flair.

 

Why the Queen Mary Is the Perfect Venue

 

The Queen Mary herself is an icon of 20th-century luxury. Launched in 1936 and retired in 1967, she now serves as a hotel, museum, and one-of-a-kind event space. Hosting Mendham’s orchestra aboard her art deco ballrooms and open decks is more than appropriate—it’s cinematic.

 

Even for locals, this isn’t your average Long Beach night out. Dress codes are encouraged, martinis are poured, and dancers often arrive in full vintage attire. It’s a rare blend of music, fashion, and local history, all set against the glow of the harbor.

 

Plan Your Evening Aboard

 

Tickets for the August 30th performance start at $47.70 per person and tend to sell quickly, especially for front-row seating or dinner-inclusive options. While exact showtimes vary, performances typically take place in the early evening, making this an ideal date night or special outing for music lovers.

 

To ensure your place aboard, early booking is recommended. The Queen Mary offers on-site dining and bars, allowing guests to extend their evening with a full pre- or post-show experience. Period costumes aren't required—but they are certainly welcome.

 

Event Details

 

Alex Mendham & His Orchestra – Live Jazz on the Queen Mary
• 📅 Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
• 🕒 Time: Varies (evening performances typical)
• 📍 Location: Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach
• 🎟️ Admission: Starting at $47.70 per person
• 📄 Details: Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties with a swing-era jazz experience aboard the Queen Mary. Expect timeless renditions of Louis Armstrong, Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby, and more.

 

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