It comes as no surprise to learn that more than one woman takes on the starring role in Tina. Performing this incredibly demanding part night after night (and twice on matinee days) would be beyond anyone. Not just because of the vocal agility required, but the emotional intensity of what plays out on stage. Of course, the sad fact is, that Tina Turner herself had to do all of this and much, much more. Which is why, by the end of this rollercoaster of a show, the air is thick with admiration for the performers on stage and the woman they’re celebrating.

For despite a dramatic journey that travels from hope to triumph to trauma, before circling back to triumph again, this is most definitely a celebration. Over 20 songs have been sewn into the storyline, from early hits ‘River Deep, Mountain High’ and ‘Proud Mary’ through to Tina’s resurrection hits ‘Private Dancer’ and ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It?’. Each one a powerhouse of physical, emotional and vocal skill.

Setting aside the wall-to-wall hits, Katori Hall’s sensitive book and Phyllida Lloyd’s masterful direction create a compelling narrative. We watch as Anna Mae Bullock finds her voice in the local church in Nutbush, Tennessee, but is abandoned by her mother. We see her gain a new name, a career and a husband, but slowly lose her self-esteem and personal safety at the hands of Ike Turner. And, most powerful of all, we cheer as Tina claws her way back to much-deserved fame, fortune and glorious autonomy.

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical is touring the UK until Saturday 4 April 2026; picture: Matt Crockett.