Based on the life of legendary artist Tina Turner, the musical is produced in association with the singer-songwriter herself and has received widespread critical acclaim since its debut in 2018.
It has been performed in London almost 1,500 times, as well as in 23 cities across the world in four different languages.
It was recently announced that it has been extended until 11 February 2024 at the Aldwych Theatre in London, where it previously broke all of the venue’s box office records.
“Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, experience Tina Turner’s triumphant story live on stage as this exhilarating celebration reveals the woman that dared to dream fiercely, shatter barriers, and conquer the world—against all odds,” says a description of the show.
The musical includes Tina’s greatest hits, including Proud Mary, River Deep Mountain High, What’s Love Got To Do With It, Nutbush City Limits, Let’s Stay Together and Private Dancer.
Discussing the show, Tina previously said that it’s “important” for her “to have the chance to share my full story.”
“This musical is not about my stardom,” she continued. “It is about the journey I took to get there. Each night I want audiences to take away from the theatre that you can turn poison into medicine.”
Directed by Phyllida Lloyd and written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Katori Hall with Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins, ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical’ is choreographed by Anthony van Laast, with set and costume designs by Mark Thompson, musical supervision by Nicholas Skilbeck, lighting by Bruno Poet, sound by Nevin Steinberg, projection design by Jeff Sugg and orchestrations by Ethan Popp.
Here, GAY TIMES speaks to four stars of ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical’ about which iconic songs resonate with them most.
Irene Myrtle Forrester who plays Gran Georgeanna
“Near the beginning of the show there is a duet I perform with Tina called ‘Don’t Turn Around.’ The song is beautiful as it shows the special relationship and love between Grandma GG and Tina, her granddaughter and the pain both experience at having to part.
“Grandma GG knows that she doesn’t have long to live and wanting better opportunities for Tina to use her God given voice, writes to Tina’s mother (Zelma) sending her to live with her and her sister Aline.
“I connect to the song on a deep level as I have experienced losses (bereavement) over the years and know many can relate. This duet to me shows love, brings understanding, is healing and brings hope.”
Paula Kay who plays Zelma Bullock
“My solo (‘It’s Gonna Work Out Fine’) is about a mother sending her young 17-year-old daughter to travel around town with an older man she doesn’t know personally but understands that he has a bad reputation with women. Zelma is demanding Ike treats Tina right but still it’s not a positive song or situation in my opinion as shortly after her life gets crazy which may have been avoided if she had stayed at home.”
Cordell Mosteller who plays Raymond Hill
“I sing the song ‘Let’s Stay Together’ with Tina, as Raymond Hill. It comes at a part of the show where Tina is feeling conflicted about her commitment to Ike and the band and how she knows Ike would be furious if they were caught dating. Tina thinks it’s best they cut it off but Raymond is determined to fight for the love of his life. I think it’s a beautiful sentiment and whether it’s a significant other or something you really want in life, it’s always good to fight for what you believe in. I love the positive energy of the song and how it just makes you feel good and feel really lucky to sing it every night.”
Kelly Hampson who plays Tina Turner’s manager Rhonda
“The song I perform in the show is a lovely duet shared between Tina and Rhonda. The song ‘Open Arms’ is sung during the second act when Tina makes the difficult decision to move on from Rhonda’s management and move in a different direction. I think this song is so beautifully placed in the story of Tina. A song about friendship, loyalty and an unbreakable bond between two women is a pleasure to perform every night.”
‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical’ is now booking to 11 February 2024 via the website or by calling the box office on 0845 200 7981.
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