West End mega-hit TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, has arrived in Birmingham as part of its first ever UK & Ireland tour.
From humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her triumphant transformation into a multi award-winning global superstar, the late Tina Turner didn’t just break the rules, she rewrote them.
Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her iconic hits, including The Best, What’s Love Got To Do With It?, Private Dancer and River Deep, Mountain High, this delightful fast-paced production discovers the heart and soul behind the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy makes for a spirited and striking Tina and confidently leans into the powerful storytelling and incredible music, resulting in captivating performances.
She draws incredible strength and stamina in what must be a challenging role that replays Tina’s turbulent childhood, an abusive and violent marriage, racist abuse, drug abuse, ageism in the music industry and even a suicide attempt.
But she navigated the narrow-minded music business and barriers to race and gender to establish herself as a global artist.
Supported by an incredibly talented ensemble, the high impact song and dance numbers are a visual spectacle giving an enthusiastic audience a celebration of Turner’s music the legend herself would be proud of, while also not shying away from the realities of the rocky road she was forced to take to achieve her notoriety.
While many musicals offer complete escapism from reality, this remains refreshingly grounded. Domestic abuse is at odds with what one comes to expect from a jukebox musical but, in my view, it is to its credit that this is different. It is ultimately an inspiring story of hope and redemption. An exhilarating celebration which reveals the untold story of a woman who dared to dream fiercely and break the barriers of age, gender and race to conquer the world against all odds.
But maybe not one for the kids!
David King-Yombo brought light and shade brilliantly to his portrayal of the villain of the piece, Ike Turner, and took pride in his boos at curtain call, such was the believability of his role.
TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is an empowering production that dazzles and uplifts. And once you think it’s reached its conclusion, the lights go back up and its’s time to celebrate this musical icon with some more numbers we’re invited to dance along to.
Whether you’re a devoted Turner fan or appreciate musical theatre done well, this is ‘simply, the best!’
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday, June 28th. Tickets are available from the box office HERE.
