Tina Turner Musical: A Triumphant Celebration of an Icon’s Life and Music
In a captivating two and a half hours, the Tina Turner Musical delivers an emotional journey through the legendary performer’s life that manages to balance darkness and light with remarkable skill. The production tackles weighty themes like domestic abuse, parental abandonment, and racial discrimination, yet somehow leaves audiences feeling uplifted and inspired. This seeming contradiction speaks to the show’s thoughtful crafting and the power of Turner’s own remarkable life story. The musical, heavily influenced by Turner herself and based on Katori Hall’s book, carries an unmistakable authenticity that resonates throughout the performance, making it more than just another jukebox musical but rather a meaningful celebration of resilience and talent.
At the heart of this production is Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy’s extraordinary performance as Tina. She brings both intensity and vulnerability to the role, showcasing not only Turner’s iconic performance style but also her inner emotional life. MacCarthy’s stamina is nothing short of remarkable – she remains onstage for virtually the entire show, never once letting her energy flag as she guides the audience through Turner’s journey from her humble beginnings to her marriage to Ike Turner, through her struggles after leaving him, and finally to her triumphant reinvention in the 1980s. MacCarthy’s portrayal captures the essence of a woman who overcame tremendous obstacles through sheer determination and talent, making the character’s victories all the more meaningful.
David King-Yombo delivers an equally nuanced performance as Ike Turner, managing to convey the character’s menace and manipulation without reducing him to a one-dimensional villain. His portrayal helps audiences understand how Ike’s own sense of injustice and frustration fueled his violent behavior, while never excusing the abuse he inflicted on Tina and their children. While other characters in the production remain somewhat superficial – serving primarily to move the plot forward between musical numbers – this approach keeps the focus squarely where it belongs: on Tina’s extraordinary journey and musical evolution. The breakneck pace of the show means some aspects of Turner’s life receive only passing mention, such as her embrace of Buddhism or her relationship with Edwin Bach, but these omissions feel acceptable given the production’s scope and runtime.
The staging of the musical employs a refreshingly minimalist approach, utilizing a simple set with few props but enhanced by constantly changing, imaginative projections that create a dynamic visual landscape. This design choice directs attention to what truly matters – the music and performances. The sound quality is nearly perfect throughout, with only occasional moments where clarity is briefly compromised. The performers demonstrate universal excellence, with MacCarthy deserving special recognition not only for her vocal and dancing abilities but also for maintaining such high energy throughout the demanding show. Her enthusiasm proves contagious, connecting directly with the audience in a palpable way that elevates the entire experience.
A live band expertly directed by Sarah Burrell provides the musical foundation for the production, bringing Turner’s iconic songbook to life with precision and passion. Anthony van Laast’s choreography perfectly complements the music, creating spectacular moments that showcase both the ensemble’s talents and Turner’s distinctive performance style. These elements combine to create a show that builds momentum throughout, culminating in a finale that has audiences on their feet, singing along enthusiastically – a testament to both the enduring power of Turner’s music and the production’s ability to create an atmosphere of communal celebration.
The Tina Turner Musical stands as a joyful, triumphant spectacle that honors its subject’s legacy while delivering top-notch entertainment. Director Phyllida Lloyd has created a production that balances emotional depth with spectacular musical numbers, resulting in a show that feels both meaningful and celebratory. While it doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of Turner’s life story, it ultimately emphasizes her triumph over adversity and her emergence as a global superstar on her own terms. For those able to secure tickets before the show ends its current run on January 24th before embarking on a national tour, the experience promises to be both moving and exhilarating – a fitting tribute to an artist whose life and music continue to inspire generations of fans.
