"TINA: The Tina Turner Musical" is a jukebox musical that takes audiences on a compelling journey through the life of rock 'n' roll legend Tina Turner. Premiering at the Aldwych Theatre in London in 2018, this production showcases Tina Turner's rise from humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to international stardom, highlighting the struggles and triumphs that marked her incredible career. Developed with Tina Turner's active participation, the musical offers an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of her life.
The musical is divided into two acts, each chronicling a significant phase of Tina Turner's life.
Act 1: The story begins in Nutbush, Tennessee, with a young Anna Mae Bullock (Tina's birth name) living with her parents and sister. Following her parents' turbulent separation, Anna Mae is raised by her grandmother, Gran Georgeanna. Encouraged to pursue her talent, Anna Mae eventually moves to St. Louis to reunite with her mother and sister, where she meets musician Ike Turner. Renamed Tina Turner, she joins Ike's band, and their professional partnership leads to her initial rise to fame. However, Ike's abusive behaviour casts a dark shadow over their relationship, culminating in a violent confrontation that propels Tina to leave Ike and seek her own path.
Act 2: The second act follows Tina as she rebuilds her life and career in Las Vegas, performing in bars and clubs while working menial jobs. Despite numerous setbacks and financial struggles, Tina's determination never wavers. With the help of new friends and her future husband, Erwin Bach, she stages a remarkable comeback, achieving solo success with hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It” and “Simply the Best.” The act concludes with her triumphant return to the stage, solidifying her status as a global superstar.
The production's set design is a visual marvel, effectively transitioning between Tina's early life in Nutbush, the vibrant music scenes of St. Louis, and the glamorous stages of her later career. Joanna Scotcher’s design incorporates movable set pieces that seamlessly transform the stage, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of each era in Tina's life.
Lighting plays a crucial role in the storytelling, with designer Bruno Poet using colour and intensity to evoke the emotional landscape of the musical. Warm, nostalgic tones illuminate Tina’s early years, while stark, dramatic lighting underscores the darker moments of her tumultuous relationship with Ike. The vibrant, dynamic lighting during concert scenes brings the energy of Tina's legendary performances to life.
The music, featuring Tina Turner's iconic songs, is the beating heart of the production. Musical director Nicholas Skilbeck and the live band deliver powerful renditions of Tina's greatest hits, from the soulful "River Deep – Mountain High" to the electrifying "Proud Mary." Each song is performed with passion and precision, capturing Tina's unique vocal style and the emotional depth of her lyrics.
The costumes, designed by Mark Thompson, are both period-accurate and visually stunning, reflecting Tina Turner's evolution as a performer and a person. From the simple, homespun dresses of her early years to the glamorous, sequined outfits of her stage performances, each costume embodies a different phase of Tina's journey. The attention to detail in recreating her iconic looks, such as the fringed minidresses and bold accessories, adds authenticity and flair to the production. Notably, Tina's legendary leather outfits and dazzling performance costumes are recreated with meticulous accuracy, capturing the essence of her powerful stage presence.
Karis Anderson delivers a phenomenal performance as Tina Turner, capturing her raw energy, resilience, and magnetic stage presence. Anderson's vocal prowess is astounding, channelling Tina's iconic voice with impressive accuracy and emotional depth. From the tender moments of "Private Dancer" to the explosive power of "Proud Mary," Anderson captivates the audience, bringing Tina's music and story to life with authenticity and passion.
Okezie Morro portrays Ike Turner with a compelling mix of charm and menace. His performance captures the complex and often troubling dynamic between Ike and Tina, highlighting both his influence on her career and the darker aspects of their relationship. Morro's portrayal is nuanced, adding layers to a character often seen as a villain in Tina's story.
Carole Stennett as Zelma Bullock, Tina’s mother, provides a strong and emotionally charged performance. Stennett brings depth to Zelma’s character, portraying her as a woman caught between love for her daughter and the harsh realities of their life. Her interactions with Anderson are poignant, reflecting the turbulent relationship between mother and daughter.
Irene Myrtle Forrester as Gran Georgeanna is a standout, offering warmth and wisdom in her portrayal of Tina’s supportive grandmother. Her presence on stage provides a grounding force for Tina, and Forrester’s performance is both touching and memorable.
The supporting cast, including Amara Campbell as Alline Bullock, Earl Gregory as Richard Bullock, Samuel J. Weir as Erwin Bach, Harry Harrington as Roger Davies, and Shaniyah Abrahams as Young Anna Mae Bullock, all deliver strong performances that enrich the storytelling and add depth to the narrative. Abrahams, in particular, shines as Young Anna Mae, capturing the early spark and determination that would define Tina’s career.
"TINA: The Tina Turner Musical" at the Aldwych Theatre is an electrifying and emotional tribute to one of music’s greatest icons. With a stellar cast led by Karis Anderson, powerful music, and stunning visual elements, this production captures the essence of Tina Turner's remarkable life and career. It is a must-see for fans of Tina Turner and anyone who appreciates a story of resilience, empowerment, and triumph. This musical not only celebrates Tina Turner's incredible legacy but also inspires audiences with her enduring spirit and indomitable will to succeed.
For more information about the show or to book tickets, please visit the show's official website by clicking the button below.
Photo Credit - Manuel Harlan
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