 They proved an invaluable asset, primarily due to the Mon Calamari being masters of starship construction and supplying the Alliance with badly needed capital ships, Mon Calamari Cruisers, that could take on the Galactic Empire's ships of the line.Prior to joining the Alliance, the Mon Calamari had only built passenger liners because of their peaceful ethos.Also renowned for their performance art, lithe Mon Calamari water dancers often perform in some of the galaxy's most prestigious venues, including Coruscant Galaxies Opera House, where the ballet "Squid Lake" ran for some time during the waning days of the Republic and was known to be a personal favourite of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine.